Do L-1 petitions get fewer RFEs than H-1B?

There is a widely held perception in immigration circles that L-1 petitions tend to receive fewer RFEs (Requests for Evidence) than H-1B petitions. This is a reported tendency, not a guarantee: the likelihood of an RFE depends on the specifics of each case.

Several factors help explain this perception. The L-1 is built on an existing intracompany relationship, with an employee who already has a track record within the organization, which typically makes the documentation clearer. Companies with frequent transfer activity also tend to have more established internal processes.

• The L-1 relies on a prior, demonstrable relationship with the company.
• The H-1B goes through a more competitive process, which can lead to stricter scrutiny.
• In both cases, organized and complete documentation reduces the risk of an RFE.

That said, each petition is evaluated individually, and the source of an RFE varies depending on the role, the evidence submitted, and the applicant’s profile. To build a strong petition, it is worth gathering documentation carefully and checking the latest guidance from USCIS or consulting with a specialist.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

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.