Frequently asked questions
Questions about L-1 Visa
Straight answers related to this visa.
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Can I receive salary from the foreign company while on an L-1 visa in the USA?
Salary under the L-1 visa must be paid by the U.S. branch, with possible supplements from the parent company, respecting local labor, immigration, and tax regulations.
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Can I receive travel per diem and allowances on the L-1 visa?
Benefits such as travel per diem and allowances on the L-1 visa depend on the contract and compliance with applicable immigration rules and tax laws.
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Can I refuse the interview in English?
The L visa interview is usually conducted in English; if there are difficulties, contact the consulate to check the possibility of a translator or flexibility.
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Can I remain on L-1 even if the foreign company transfers me to another department?
Department changes can maintain L-1 status, provided the new functions meet visa requirements and documentation is updated with USCIS.
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Can I renew an L-1 in Canada without being Canadian?
The renewal of the L-1 visa must be done in the jurisdiction of the U.S. consulate where you legally reside; being in Canada without legal residence may prevent the application.
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Can I renew the L-1 for how long before reaching the maximum limit?
The L-1 visa has a maximum stay limit: 7 years for L-1A and 5 years for L-1B, with renewals planned according to official rules and specialized guidance.
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Can I renew the L-1 indefinitely if I alternate between L-1A and L-1B?
Alternating between L-1A and L-1B visas does not allow indefinite renewal; each category has clear stay limits that must be respected.
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Can I renew the L-1A after 3 years for another 3 years?
Extension of the L-1A visa is possible after 3 years, but limited to a total of 7 years. It requires attention to the rules and consultation of official sources to ensure legal compliance.
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Can I renew the L-1A without having expanded the team?
It is possible to renew the L-1A visa without expanding the team, provided that the holder maintains strategic managerial functions and the office operation is viable and consistent.
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Can I renew the L-2 within the USA without leaving the country?
It is possible to extend the L-2 visa within the USA by using Form I-539, provided that the request is made before expiration and the L-1 holder maintains their status.
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Can I rent a safe deposit box at a bank in the USA?
It is possible to rent a safe deposit box at a bank in the USA with an L visa, provided documentation requirements are met and care is taken with banks and contracts.
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Can I rent residential property anywhere in the USA?
With an L visa, you can rent residential property in any region of the USA, respecting local laws and landlords'' criteria, with caution and professional support.
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Can I reopen a denied L-1 case?
A denied L-1 visa petition cannot be automatically reopened, but there are options such as motions for review or appeals, always respecting legal deadlines and requirements.
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Can I request a refund of the Premium Processing fee if it takes more than 15 days?
Premium Processing refunds are automatic if USCIS does not decide within 15 days; stay alert to official updates and avoid illegitimate promises.
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Can I request a refund of USCIS fees if the petition is denied?
USCIS fees for L visas are non-refundable even if the petition is denied; monitor official regulations and rely on specialized consultancy to avoid surprises.
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Can I request cancellation of the L-1 and enter as a tourist?
Canceling the L-1 visa to attempt entry as a tourist demands rigorous evaluation of immigration law and can affect future applications; always consult qualified specialists.
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Can I return to my country before starting the job and come back afterwards?
Returning to your country before starting work with an L visa is possible, as long as the visa remains valid and all immigration requirements are strictly met.
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Can I return to my country if my L-1 extension is in process?
Traveling to the country of origin during the L-1 visa extension process can interrupt the procedure; it is advised to follow the rules and consult specialists to avoid complications.
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Can I return to my country to renew the L-1 visa without using Premium Processing?
The renewal of the L-1 visa can be done in the home country without using Premium Processing, which is optional and only speeds up the process, requiring strict attention to documentation and laws.
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Can I return to the home country and resume the L-1 if I have not used all the time?
The time used on the L-1 visa is cumulative and does not reset after returning to the home country; it is crucial to maintain requirements and consult specialists to avoid complications.