Maximum Stay on an L-1 Visa

The length of time you can stay on an L-1 visa depends on your specific category (manager/executive vs. specialized knowledge) and whether you're working in a new U.S. office. Here's a breakdown:

L-1 Visa Categories and Maximum Stays:

• L-1A (Managers and Executives):

  • Initial stay: Up to 3 years

  • Extensions: Possible in 2-year increments, with a maximum total stay of 7 years.

• L-1B (Specialized Knowledge):

  • Initial stay: Up to 3 years

  • Extensions: Similar to L-1A, possible in 2-year increments, with a maximum total stay of 5 years.

New Office Openings:

• Employees opening a new U.S. office are initially granted a stay of only 1 year.

• Extensions are then based on the regular L-1A or L-1B category rules.

Blanket L Petitions (for Multinational Companies):

• Initial stay: Up to 3 years

• Extensions: Possible after the initial period.

Important to Remember:

• This is the maximum continuous stay. After reaching the limit, you'll need to spend at least 1 year outside the U.S. before returning on an L-1 visa.

• Time spent on an L-1 visa counts towards the maximum stay on an H-1B visa (if you switch visa categories later).

Extending Beyond the Maximum:

• This may be possible by transitioning to a different visa category or obtaining Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status.

Stay Up-to-Date:

• Immigration regulations can change. Always refer to the latest USCIS guidelines or consult an immigration attorney for the most current information specific to your situation.

• Do you need help? in us immigration consultants can help you with your process and all this paperwork that needs to full off!