The L-1A visa program?
The L-1A nonimmigrant classification enables a U.S. employer to transfer an executive or manager from one of its affiliated foreign offices to one of its offices in the United States. This classification also enables a foreign company that does not yet have an affiliated U.S. office to send an executive or manager to the United States with the purpose of establishing one. The employer must file a Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, with fee, on behalf of the employee.
This dual purpose visa — meaning that its beneficiaries can apply for permanent residency after receiving it — is designed to allow those in leadership positions to establish or further their company’s business interests across international borders. The L-1A visa requires certain levels of qualifications, and only employees who serve in executive or managerial capacities can receive a visa under this classification.
- Executive capacity: The employee has the ability to make professional decisions without significant oversight
- Managerial capacity: The employee has the ability to supervise and control the work of professional-level employees and/or an essential function of the organization.
More Investment Visas
None of the investor categories have language, education or business experience requirements.