L-1 Visa Attorney in Pleasanton, CA

Businesses that function both in the U.S. and their home country benefit from the best of what both areas offer. The L-1 visa is open to international organizations with offices in the U.S. that temporarily transfer employees to their U.S. offices. This visa is sometimes referred to as the “intra-company transferee” visa.

As businesses continue to expand globally, the need for international transfers of employees becomes increasingly essential. The L-1 visa offers a streamlined solution for those seeking these key employee transfers. 

At Dana Michael Ritter, we can provide the legal representation you need in seeking L-1 visas. As an immigration law firm with a reputation for competence in employment-based immigration, we thoroughly understand the legal requirements and application process. 

Make an appointment for a free initial consultation with our L-1 visa lawyer in Pleasanton. You can reach us via our contact form or at (925) 326-4764. 

Overview of the L-1 Visa 

To obtain an L-1 visa, you must be able to prove that you have worked for a non-U.S. company for at least one full year within the last three years as an executive, manager, or employee with specialized knowledge.

The L-1 visa enables transferring managers, executives, and specialized knowledge personnel to a U.S. office, subsidiary, or affiliated company. 

This visa comes in the following categories:

• L-1A visas – for executives and managers. To qualify, the employee must hold a managerial or executive position at the foreign branch and intend to perform similar functions in the U.S. 
• L-1B visas – for personnel with specialized knowledge. These individuals possess unique expertise critical to the company's operations and are transferred to the U.S. to contribute their specialized skills. 

L-1A workers may work for up to seven years. L-1B visa holders may work for five years.

Applying for the L-1 Visa

Applying for the L-1 visa requires meticulous preparation and adherence to specific requirements. 

Key steps involved in the application process include:

• Employer Petition: The U.S. employer must file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of the employee.
• Documentation: The petition should include supporting documentation such as evidence of the qualifying relationship between the U.S. and foreign entities, proof of the employee's qualifying position, and details of the employee's qualifications and experience.
• Filing Fees: The appropriate filing fees must be paid along with the petition.
• Premium Processing (Optional): Employers may choose to expedite the processing of the L-1 visa petition through USCIS's premium processing service for an additional fee, which guarantees action within 15 calendar days.
• Consular Processing: Once USCIS approves the petition, the employee can apply for the L-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.

How Dana Michael Ritter Can Help

Navigating the L-1 visa process can be complex, and the knowledge of an immigration lawyer is invaluable in ensuring a smooth and successful application. 

At our firm, we can evaluate the employee's qualifications and the company's circumstances to determine if they meet the L-1 visa requirements. We can provide guidance on eligibility issues and suggest alternative strategies if needed.

We can assist in compiling the necessary documents, ensuring all required evidence is included and organized effectively to present a solid case to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). By working closely with the employee, we can ensure the timely and accurate submission of the L-1 visa petition, reducing the risk of errors that could lead to delays or denials. 

We can provide valuable insights and advice throughout the process, answering questions, addressing concerns, and keeping you informed about the application’s progress. In case of a denial or request for additional evidence (RFE), our attorney can review the decision, identify any weaknesses, craft a well-supported response or file an appeal if necessary.

We aim to develop a comprehensive strategy tailored to your circumstances, ensuring compliance with immigration laws and maximizing the chances of a successful L-1 visa application. By leveraging our legal knowledge and proficiency, employers and employees can focus on their business objectives while leaving the legal complexities in our capable hands.

Contact us at (925) 326-4764 for comprehensive help with your employment immigration needs.