If the company is dissolved and reopened under a new CNPJ, does the L-1 remain valid?

It depends on the corporate continuity between the entities. The L-1 is tied to the organizational structure that sponsors the professional, so dissolving the company and reopening it under a new CNPJ typically constitutes a new legal entity, which can undermine the basis of the visa.

This is because the L-1 requires a qualifying relationship between the company abroad and the branch, parent, or affiliate in the United States. If that link is broken, the legal foundation of the visa may cease to exist.

Status may be preserved when there is formal continuity between the old and new entity, for example:

• A restructuring that maintains the same ownership and control.
• The formation of an affiliate or subsidiary that preserves the corporate connection.

Since each restructuring has its own particularities, it is worth analyzing the change carefully and seeking specialized guidance before assuming the L-1 remains valid. Confirm updated requirements with official sources.

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.