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Do I need an open-ended employment contract?

The L visa does not require an open-ended contract, but proving a long-term bond with the company is essential for the transfer in the United States.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on March 22, 2026
2 min read
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The L visa is a widely used option by multinational companies to facilitate the transfer of executives, managers, or professionals with specialized knowledge to their units in the United States. Regarding the need for an open-ended employment contract, the general rule is that this type of contract is not a mandatory requirement for the L visa.

What really matters for the application is to prove that the professional already maintains a solid and long-term relationship with the company abroad – usually, at least one year of continuous work – and that this same bond will extend to the company”s activity in the United States. Documents evidencing this relationship, such as contracts, company statements, and payment receipts, can be helpful to demonstrate the established employment relationship.

It is worth noting that each case may have its particularities, and the requirements can vary according to the interpretation of immigration officers and the specific guidelines of the consulate. Therefore, it is essential to strictly follow the United States immigration laws and seek information through official channels.

Always look for updated guidance and information from reliable sources and avoid falling for promises or marketing campaigns that guarantee results, as the immigration process should be conducted with caution and responsibility. This way, you ensure that all requirements will be met according to the current legislation.

Learn more about L-1 Visa

Type
Intracompany transfer
Duration
1-3 years
Extension
Up to 5-7 years
Processing
2-5 months
All about L-1 Visa
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

Victoria's tips

Do I need an open-ended employment contract?

The L visa does not require an open-ended contract, but proving a long-term bond with the company is essential for the transfer in the United States.

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