L FAQs

Q: I am currently employed in the U.S. in L-1 classification. How long can I remain in the U.S.?

A: The initial L-1 classification is usually valid for three years. Individuals in L-1B classification are eligible for one 2-year extension for a maximum of 5 years in the U.S. Individuals in L-1A classification are eligible for two 2-year extensions for a maximum of 7 years in the U.S.

Q: If I am currently in L-1B classification, can I change my status to L-1A so I have an additional two years in the U.S.?

A: If an individual has been filling a managerial position in the U.S. for more than six months and the position meets the definition of a manager according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, their L-1B classification may be able to be amended to an L-1A classification, giving them an another two-year extension. Please contact Grzeca Law Group for more information regarding amending an L-1B classification.

Q: Does my time spent in H-1B classification affect my L-1 classification in any way?

A: Yes. Any time spent in the U.S. in H-1B classification does count against the 7 and 5 year limits for the L-1A and L-1B classifications.

Q: I am currently employed in the U.S. in L-1A classification. How can I apply for permanent residence?

A: When applying for U.S. permanent residence, foreign nationals who hold L-1A status should be classified as a Priority Workers. Priority Workers are exempt from the first stage of the permanent residence process, which is the Labor Certification process (PERM). Learn more about the priority worker stages here

Q: What preference category will I be placed in?

A: You will be placed in the Employment-Based First Preference (EB-1) Category. Details about the EB-1 Category can be found here.

Q: Are there backlogs in this preference category?

A: The current visa bulletin showing the backlog for an Employment-Based First Preference visa can be found here.