Required Documents for L1 Visa

By Asim Kilinc, Immigration Attorney at CK Law Firm

The L1 visa is a special type of visa that allows international companies operating in the United States to temporarily transfer certain employees to the U.S. This visa is particularly suitable for individuals working in executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge positions. Applying for an L1 visa requires comprehensive document preparation. It is crucial to know what documents are needed to complete the application process smoothly. In this article, we will detail all the documents that must be prepared for the L1 visa application process:

• Passport: Validity and Other Requirements
• DS-160 Form: The Foundation of the Application Process
• Biometric Photograph: Specific Standards and Requirements
• Employer-Provided Documents: Assignment Letter and Company Information
• Work Experience and Educational Documents: Proof of Professional Background
• U.S. Accommodation Details: Lodging Arrangements
• Proof of Payment for the Application Fee: Financial Requirements
• Additional Documents: Other Documents That May Be Requested by the Consulate

If you have any other questions regarding the L1 visa type, please do not hesitate to contact me through the comments section below this article, directly via LinkedIn, or through the CK Law Firm Immigration Law Firm website, where I am a co-founder.

Passport: Validity and Other Requirements

Individuals applying for an L1 visa must have a passport that is valid for at least six more months from the date of entry into the United States. The condition of the passport is also crucial; worn or damaged passports may not be accepted. In addition to the current passport, any old passports should also be submitted if available, as they may be important for documenting the applicant’s travel history and previous visa issuances.

DS-160 Form: The Foundation of the Application Process

The DS-160 form is an online form that must be completed by anyone applying for a U.S. visa. This form includes the applicant’s personal information, purpose of travel, plans in the U.S., and visa history. It is critical that the form is filled out completely and accurately, as it plays a key role in the success of the application process. Once the DS-160 form is completed, the confirmation page should be printed out and presented during the visa interview. The information provided in the form must be consistent with other documents submitted during the application process.

Biometric Photograph: Specific Standards and Requirements

A biometric photo that meets specific standards is required for the L1 visa application. The photo must adhere to the following specifications:

• Size: The photo must be 5×5 cm.
• Background: The background of the photo must be white.
• Recency: The photo must have been taken within the last six months.
• Facial Expression: The photo should feature a neutral facial expression, and the entire face must be visible.

A digital copy of this photo should be uploaded online with the DS-160 form, and a printed copy must be presented during the visa interview.

Employer-Provided Documents: Assignment Letter and Company Information

The individual applying for the L1 visa must obtain certain documents from their employer. These documents are a critical part of the application because they prove to U.S. authorities that the applicant is truly eligible for the L1 visa. The required documents typically include:

Assignment Letter: This document should clearly state that the applicant will be working at a U.S. office and specify the position they will hold. Additionally, it should explain the significance of this position within the company and why the applicant was chosen for this role. The letter is usually signed by a senior executive of the company.

Company Activity Documents: Documents proving that the applicant’s employer is operating both in the U.S. and internationally must be submitted. These documents should demonstrate that the company is legally operational, has a physical office in the U.S., and that this office is active.

Company Tax Documents: Documents showing that the company operating in the U.S. has regularly paid its taxes should also be included in the application file. These documents prove that the company is financially sound and legally established.

Work Experience and Educational Documents: Proof of Professional Background

The individual applying for the L1 visa must submit documents proving that they have worked for at least one year within the last three years before the application date. These documents should demonstrate that the applicant has the necessary qualifications for the position:

Work Certificate: This document, issued by the company’s human resources department, should state how long the applicant has worked at the company, the positions they have held, and the responsibilities they have taken on. This document is a crucial piece of evidence showing that the applicant is eligible for the L1 visa.

Diplomas and Certificates: The applicant’s educational qualifications and professional certifications must also be submitted. These documents demonstrate the applicant’s expertise and competence in their field. It is especially important for technical positions that these documents are complete and detailed.

U.S. Accommodation Details: Lodging Arrangements

The applicant must provide information about where they will stay in the U.S. This could be a hotel reservation, a rental agreement, or an invitation letter from a host in the U.S. Lodging arrangements are an important detail that shows the applicant will reside in the U.S. legally and properly.

Proof of Payment for the Application Fee: Financial Requirements

A specific fee must be paid when applying for the L1 visa. This fee is an official part of the application process, and proof of payment must be included in the application documents. If the fee is not paid, the application process cannot be completed, and the application may be denied. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the fee is paid in full and on time.

Additional Documents: Other Documents That May Be Requested by the Consulate

During the application process, consulate officials may request additional documents. For example, bank statements to provide information about the applicant’s financial situation, sponsor letters provided by the U.S. employer, or documents specifying how long the applicant will stay in the U.S. may be requested. These documents help prove that the applicant will legally reside and work in the U.S.

Conclusion

The L1 visa application process requires careful preparation and detailed document submission. It is essential that the documents are complete, accurate, and consistent to successfully complete the application process. Given the complexity of the process and legal requirements, it may be helpful to seek support from an immigration lawyer. Remember, you can reach out to me directly via LinkedIn, or through the CK Law Firm Immigration Law Firm website at info@cklawfirm.org.

Who is Attorney Asım Kılınç?

Attorney Asım Kılınç is the co-founder of CK Law Firm and is recognized for his expertise in immigration law and U.S. asylum applications. Kılınç completed his Master’s degree at Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law and is a member of the Missouri Bar Association, with a focus on U.S. immigration law.

Attorney Kılınç’s extensive knowledge and experience in immigration law have significantly contributed to CK Law Firm’s success in this field. He has actively participated in the preparation of over 1,000 cases, demonstrating his expertise in this area. By providing comprehensive and professional legal support to his clients, he helps them adapt to their new lives in the U.S.

Attorney Kılınç is also well-versed in U.S. asylum applications. He meticulously guides his clients through the process and ensures they receive the best legal advice. He provides top-quality service to clients in matters of citizenship, Green Card, work permits, and other immigration processes, supporting them from start to finish on their journey to U.S. citizenship.

Attorney Asım Kılınç, who solidifies CK Law Firm’s leadership in immigration law and U.S. asylum applications, offers reliable and effective legal consultancy services to clients, assisting them in building a new life in the U.S.