Can the L-1 be requested for transfers between sister companies?

Yes, in principle. The L-1 is designed for intracompany transfers of executives, managers, and employees with specialized knowledge between units of the same organization, and sister companies can fall within this framework, provided a qualifying corporate relationship exists between them.

Sister companies are generally those that share the same parent company or are linked through common ownership and control. That connection is precisely what must be clearly documented in the petition for the structure to be recognized as a ‘qualified organization’ for L-1 purposes.

• A control or ownership link connecting the two companies.
• Consistent evidence of that corporate relationship.
• Organizational hierarchy and a qualifying employment period that support the transfer.

The rules can be complex, and the specifics of the relationship between the companies affect the outcome. It is worth evaluating the eligibility with a specialist and checking the current criteria on USCIS before filing.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.