Can I apply for an O-1 visa if I have an L-1?

It is important to understand that the L-1 and O-1 visas have very distinct purposes and requirements. While the L-1 visa is aimed at intracompany transfers-that is, for employees being transferred within the same company or related companies-the O-1 visa is intended for professionals who demonstrate extraordinary abilities in their fields, whether in the arts, sciences, education, business, or sports.

If you already hold an L-1 visa, switching to the O-1 is not automatically unfeasible, but it requires that you meet the specific criteria of the O-1. This implies that, in addition to proving your experience and prominent positions, you will need to gather a significant amount of evidence demonstrating your status as an ”extraordinary” professional.

In other words, it is not enough to just have experience in the sector; you need to show international or national recognition, awards, publications, and other documented proofs of excellence. It is worth highlighting that the transition between these two immigration statuses must be done carefully, respecting all the norms and requirements of the United States immigration service.

Therefore, consulting professionals or reliable sources can help clarify specific doubts and avoid traps, scams, or promises that sound too good to be true. Remember to strictly follow immigration laws and seek support from renowned experts to guide your process, ensuring that all steps are properly fulfilled. In this way, you will be making an informed decision in accordance with the current policies of the United States.

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.