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How to Obtain an L1A Visa

By eHow Legal Editor

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L1A visas allow foreign workers to live and work in the United States for 7 years under certain circumstances. These visas are intended for upper level managers and company executives. Follow these steps to obtain one.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Internet access
Computer

Know How to Qualify for an L1A Visa

Step1

Make sure you qualify. Only those employed in upper management or as an executive for a foreign company that is opening a branch of operations in the United States can apply for an L1A visa. Your company must maintain its base of operations in your home country.

Step2

Have a solid employment history with your company. In order to qualify for the L1A visa, you must have been employed by your company for at least a year.

Step3

Follow the correct channels. All applications for L1A visas must be made through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Office (see Resources below).

Step4

Secure legal assistance. If you have any problems applying for your L1A visa or if there is anything about the process you do not understand, consult an immigration attorney. You can find one through the American Bar Association (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

If you plan on relocating to the United States for longer than the 7-year period authorized by the L1A visa, you should still apply for one. The L1A visa can be used as a stepping-stone to obtaining a green card, which will allow you to stay in the United States indefinitely.
If you qualify, getting your L1A visa can take several weeks. It all depends on how busy the issuing consulate or embassy is at the time you apply.
Bring the required documents with you to the U.S. Embassy when you apply. This includes a valid passport and proof of employment with the company in question.
When it comes time to renew your L1A visa, you must do so at a U.S. consulate in your home country. You will not be permitted to reenter the United States without a renewed L1A visa.
If you fail to renew your L1A visa, you could face deportation.