How long can I stay without salary on L-1?

The L-1 visa is an instrument that allows the transfer of executives, managers, and professionals with specialized knowledge between multinational companies, enabling these professionals to work in the United States. Since it is a visa based on a specific employment relationship, it is essential to understand how aspects such as remuneration impact the maintenance of legal status in the country.

In principle, the basis of the L-1 visa is linked to the continuity of an employment relationship that justifies the professional”s presence in the U.S. In case of unpaid leave (or temporary interruption of salary payment), the key to maintaining L-1 status is to demonstrate that the link with the company remains and that this lack of remuneration is of a transitory nature – for example, resulting from authorized leave or a previously communicated and documented internal restructuring.

There is, however, no “official” or fixed period of time that allows one to stay without salary without risking the status; this evaluation will depend on the concrete situation and how it is presented to the immigration authorities. When employment is definitively interrupted or when the visa benefit ceases to be compatible with the structure of the employment relationship, the professional may have a short period – often cited as around 60 days, similar to what happens with other employment-based visas – to regularize their situation, change their status, or prepare to leave the country.

It is worth emphasizing, however, that this period is not formally guaranteed and may vary according to circumstances and the interpretation of the responsible agencies. Given these nuances, it is fundamental that any change in working conditions, such as temporary suspension of payment, be formalized and properly documented by the company. In this way, it will be easier to demonstrate to the United States authorities that the employment relationship continues to be in force, even if, temporarily, the salary is not being disbursed.

Finally, it is always advisable to keep up with updates in immigration regulations and, if in doubt, seek specialized guidance through professionals or accredited companies in the area. This way, you avoid risks and possible misunderstandings arising from inaccurate information, as well as reduce the risk of falling for promises of miracle solutions or frauds that, unfortunately, are present in the international immigration environment.

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.