How is the qualifying employment period abroad counted?

Under the L-1, counting qualifying employment abroad means demonstrating that you worked for a qualifying period, continuously and on a full-time basis, for the foreign entity of the same group that will sponsor the transfer.

What typically matters in this assessment is the consistency and formality of the employment relationship, more than the job title itself:

• Direct, full-time employment with the sponsoring company or a related entity.
• Continuity of the employment relationship, without interruptions that would undermine the qualifying period.
• The count begins from the effective start of duties, not merely from the date on the contract.

To support this period, keep organized documentation such as employment contracts, pay records, and letters describing your roles and dates. These records objectively demonstrate that the qualifying period was fulfilled.

The exact duration required and the details of how the period is counted are defined by immigration rules and may vary by case. It is advisable to confirm the current requirements with USCIS and review your documentation with a specialist 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.