Does the L-1 require an English test such as TOEFL or IELTS?

No. The L-1 does not require any English proficiency test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS, as part of its eligibility criteria. It is an intracompany transfer visa, so the review focuses on other factors entirely.

What matters for the L-1 is the intracompany nature of the transfer: the beneficiary’s professional experience, the qualifying relationship between the foreign entity and the U.S. unit, and the role to be performed (executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge). English proficiency does not appear on that list as a formal requirement.

That does not mean language skills are irrelevant. A strong command of English generally makes it easier to adapt to the American work environment and collaborate with local teams, which is a practical benefit, even if it is not a visa requirement.

Because requirements can be updated, the best practice is always to verify current requirements through official sources and, if you have questions about your specific situation, to seek qualified professional guidance.

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.