If the foreign company is located in a country different from my nationality, can I apply for an L-1?

The L-1 visa is a business mobility tool that allows the transfer of executives, managers, or employees with specialized knowledge from a foreign company to one of its affiliates in the United States. This type of visa is not directly linked to the individual”s nationality, but rather to the relationship between the foreign company and the American subsidiary or branch.

In other words, it does not matter if the company you work for is located in a country different from your country of origin. The key criterion is to prove that there is a qualified relationship between the foreign company and the U.S. company, such as through a parent company, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate.

Additionally, it is necessary to demonstrate that you have worked for the company abroad for at least one year in positions requiring managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge.

Attention: it is essential to strictly follow U.S. immigration laws and regulations. Always seek information from official sources or specialized consultancies, avoiding offers of services that guarantee easy results or unfounded promises. Exercising caution and seeking reliable advice is crucial to ensure that the process complies with legal requirements and to avoid future complications.

Each case has particularities; therefore, even though nationality does not prevent the L-1 visa application, details about the corporate structure and overseas employment history must be clearly demonstrated to meet the visa criteria. Stay attentive to official guidelines and keep your documentation organized to ensure that the requirements are properly fulfilled.

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.