Is the L-1 getting harder to approve these days?

There is no fixed answer to whether the L-1 is becoming easier or harder to approve. Each case is decided on its own merits, and the level of scrutiny can shift over time based on immigration policies and how the authorities interpret the eligibility criteria.

What tends to matter most is the strength of the petition. A well-prepared case typically holds up even during periods of heightened review, when it clearly demonstrates:

• The genuine corporate relationship between the foreign entity and the U.S. affiliate.
• The executive, managerial, or specialized-knowledge nature of the transferred role.
• The actual operation of the business, supported by consistent documentation.

Rather than trying to predict a trend, the more productive focus is on building a thorough, well-documented case. Since rules and interpretations can change, it is worth checking the latest guidance from USCIS or consulting a specialist before filing.

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.