The L-1 classification allows your employer to transfer you from your foreign company to its U.S. parent, affiliate, and subsidiary company.

There are two types of L-1 classifications. Employees performing managerial or executive assignments in the U.S are in L-1A status, with a maximum validity period of seven years, for an initial petition of three years and two extensions of two years each. Employees performing specialized knowledge assignments hold L-1B status, with a maximum validity period of five years, for an initial petition of three years and one extension of two years. Transferees may recapture any time spent physically present outside the U.S. Limited exceptions exist to the maximum periods of authorized stay for employment that requires only an intermittent presence in the United States. Your spouse and minor children get L-2 status, and your spouse may obtain employment authorization.