L-1: Intracompany Transfer

L-1: Intracompany Transfer

Many Indian professionals enter the U.S. on an L-1 visa, which allows multinational managers, executives, or specialized knowledge employees to transfer to their company’s U.S. branch. While the L-1 visa provides a temporary work opportunity, it is not always a guaranteed pathway to permanent residency. The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, however, offers a direct route to a green card—helping L-1 holders secure their long-term future in the United States.

✧ Challenges Faced by L-1 Visa Holders

While the L-1 visa is highly useful for work assignments, it comes with limitations:

  • Temporary Status: The L-1 is a non-immigrant visa, generally valid for up to 7 years for executives/managers, and 5 years for specialized knowledge workers.
  • Uncertainty of Extensions: Renewals depend on business needs and USCIS approval.
  • No Direct Green Card Route: L-1 status does not automatically lead to permanent residency, creating long-term uncertainty for families.

How EB-5 Helps L-1 Visa Holders

The EB-5 program can significantly reduce the uncertainty L-1 visa holders face:

Direct Green Card Pathway

By investing $800,000 in a TEA (or $1,050,000 otherwise), L-1 holders can apply for a green card for themselves, their spouse, and children under 21.

Parallel Filing

It is possible to continue working on an L-1 visa while filing an EB-5 petition, ensuring uninterrupted status.

Faster Relief from Backlogs

For some applicants, EB-5 can move more quickly compared to employer-sponsored green card categories with longer wait times.

Family Benefits

Children can access U.S. education as residents, with lower tuition fees and greater opportunities.

Long-Term Security

Transition from temporary work status to permanent residency creates peace of mind for families planning their future in America.

How It Works

How U.S. Visa India Services Supports L-1 Visa Holders in EB-5 Filing

At U.S. Visa India Services, we have extensive experience assisting Indian L-1 professionals in transitioning to EB-5. Our approach includes:

Personalized Immigration Roadmap

We assess your current visa status and timelines to determine the best EB-5 filing strategy.

Project Selection & Due Diligence

We connect you with credible EB-5 regional center projects that meet USCIS requirements and align with your family’s goals.

Comprehensive Petition Support

From preparing your I-526E petition to compiling financial evidence, we ensure accuracy and compliance.

Seamless Transition

We guide you in maintaining lawful L-1 status while your EB-5 case progresses.

Family-Centered Planning

We help you plan for your children’s education, relocation, and long-term settlement.

 

✧ Conclusion

For L-1 visa holders, the EB-5 program is not just an investment—it’s a powerful solution to secure permanent residency and stability in the U.S. By curtailing timelines and reducing dependency on temporary work visas, EB-5 opens a faster and safer path to the American dream.

 

At U.S. Visa India Services, we specialize in guiding L-1 visa professionals and their families through the EB-5 process—helping them move beyond uncertainty and build a secure future in the United States.

 

Contact U.S. Visa India Services today to explore how EB-5 can transform your L-1 journey into a permanent residency success story.

Ready to Start Your EB-5 Journey?

Let U.S. Visa India Services, handle the complexities so you can focus on your future. With over 7 years of experience and a proven success record, we are your trusted partner in achieving U.S. residency through the EB-5 Program.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your EB-5 petition with confidence.