L-1B Visa for
Specialized
Knowledge Workers
Deploy Global Expertise Where It Matters Most
The L-1B visa enables multinational companies to transfer employees who possess specialized or advanced knowledge of their organization’s products, services, research, systems, or proprietary processes. It supports U.S. operations that depend on internal know-how not easily replicated in the American labor market.
Eligibility requires
- A qualifying relationship between the foreign and U.S. entities
- At least one continuous year of employment abroad within the preceding three years
- Proof that the employee’s knowledge is distinct or advanced relative to both the company and the wider industry
Kameli Law provides comprehensive support—from strategic planning and documentation to RFE response and long-term immigration alignment.
What Is the L-1B Visa?
The L-1B nonimmigrant classification allows a U.S. employer to transfer a professional employee from a related foreign entity to perform services requiring specialized knowledge.
The worker must have been employed abroad by the same employer, its parent, subsidiary, or affiliate for at least one continuous year in the past three years.
L-1B eligibility is governed by INA 101(a)(15)(L) and 8 CFR 214.2(l).
Who Qualifies?
Corporate Eligibility
- Parent, branch, affiliate, or subsidiary relationship
- Ongoing business activity in both the U.S. and abroad (not just registration on paper)
Qualifying Relationship Proof
Share ledgers, organizational charts, intercompany contracts, and formation documents demonstrating common ownership and control.
Employee Eligibility
- One continuous year of full-time employment abroad within the last three years
- Coming to the U.S. to perform duties requiring specialized knowledge
- Maintains admissibility and lawful nonimmigrant intent (dual intent tolerated)
L-1B vs. L-1A (At a Glance)
| Feature | L-1B Specialized Knowledge | L-1A Executive/Managerial |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Transfer employees with proprietary or advanced knowledge | Transfer executives/managers to lead or oversee U.S. operations |
| Max Stay | 5 years total | 7 years total |
| Green Card Pathway | May convert to L-1A or pursue other EB routes | Direct route to EB-1C Multinational Manager/Executive |
| Focus | Technical or functional expertise | Leadership and strategic oversight |
What Counts as “Specialized Knowledge”?
- Special knowledge of the petitioner’s specific products, services, equipment, or management; or.
- Advanced knowledge of its proprietary processes and procedures.
- Distinct or uncommon within the company and industry
- Integral to U.S. operations and business continuity
- Not readily availablein the U.S. labor market
Key Advantages
of the L-1B Visa
L-1 Visa Process: Strategic Roadmap
Strategy Session & Eligibility Audit
Assess corporate relationships and beneficiary qualifications to ensure full L-1 compliance.
Link specific job duties directly to the company’s proprietary processes and specialized knowledge.
Role & Knowledge Mapping
Evidence Collection
Gather essential internal documentation, organizational charts, and sworn affidavits to support the case.
Draft the comprehensive legal brief and complete Form I-129 with the required L-Supplement.
Petition Preparation
USCIS Filing Strategy
Submit the full petition package, with the option to utilize Premium Processing for expedited review.
Monitor case status and professionally respond to any Requests for Evidence (RFEs) if issued.
Adjudication & RFE Management
Consular Interview or Change of Status
Finalize the process via a visa appointment abroad or adjust status domestically if already in the U.S.
Maintain corporate standing and employment continuity to ensure validity and ease future renewals.
Compliance Setup
Representative
Evidence Checklist
Corporate Documents
- Proof of qualifying relationship (share certificates, M&A records, org charts)
- Proof of active operations in both entities
Employee Documents
- Employment verification abroad
- Detailed job descriptions (foreign + U.S.)
- Training records, project documentation, proprietary system credentials
Knowledge Proof
- Technical manuals, confidential process descriptions, comparative charts
- Affidavits from supervisors validating proprietary exposure
- Evidence of impact (time saved, cost reduction, unique implementation results)
Processing Times and Costs
- Form I-129 filing fee: per current USCIS schedule
- Premium Processing: optional (15-day decision window)
- Fraud Prevention Fee/Public Law 114-113 fee: where applicable
Common Challenges and Mitigation
| Common Issue | Kameli Law Solution |
|---|---|
| Generic description of “specialized knowledge” | Define proprietary content; quantify impact metrics |
| Role overlaps with general industry knowledge | Show comparative distinction and internal exclusivity |
| Weak link between foreign and U.S. duties | Create continuity chart mapping responsibilities |
| Minimal documentation | Use affidavits, sanitized internal evidence, process charts |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the L-1B visa?
A temporary visa allowing a U.S. company to transfer an employee with specialized knowledge from a qualifying foreign affiliate
Can I switch from L-1B to L-1A?
Yes, if your U.S. duties evolve into a managerial or executive capacity.
Does the L-1B have a cap or lottery?
No—petitions may be filed year-round.
What is a Blanket L petition?
For large employers, a pre-approved “blanket” streamlines transfers via Form I-129S at the consulate.
How do I prove my knowledge isn’t readily available in the U.S.?
Show proprietary training, internal system access limits, or performance metrics demonstrating unique contribution.
Plan Your L-1B Strategy
Kameli Law assists global employers in identifying key talent, documenting proprietary expertise, and structuring petitions that withstand scrutiny. Our attorneys coordinate immigration, compliance, and long-term workforce planning across multinational operations.