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L1 and H1B Visas
Hi there,
Can you please clarify my queries?
My queries:
1. What is the limitation / drawback in L1 compared to H1B?
2. Why do applicants always prefer H1B, although it being on limited quota?
3. Is it not possible for the applicant to continue to work with L1 and then proceed to apply for PR?
Please provide your responses.
Thanks beforehand.
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Re: L1 and H1B Visas
1. L1 visas are non-immigrant visas for employees of an international company with offices in both a home country and the United States, or which intend to open a new office in the United States while maintaining their home country interests; H1B visas allow foreign workers to work in specialty occupations for qualified sponsoring employers.
2. They don't.
3. An L1 visa holder may seek permanent residency.
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Re: L1 and H1B Visas
Thank you very much, Mr. Knowitall.
A few more also.
4a. Would L1 status affect the living of their Spouse and Children?
4b. Would L1 status affect getting married and bringing the Spouse to the US?
5. Within a shorter duration and not leaving the US, is it possible to move to another company from L1 to H1B/L1?
Thanks.
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Re: L1 and H1B Visas
1. L1 visas are intra-company transfers that a company exists in US and another foreign country can issue a L1 visa to their foreign employees to enable them work in US. L1 visa holders are not allowed to switch company while they are in US. If they do so, the visa sponsor may cancel their visa and they should leave US. H1B is also quite similar to L1 but you can switch company on H1B.
L1 is more beneficial than H1 because a dependent of a L1 visa holder can work in US with a EAD where a Dependent visa holder of a H1B visa holder is not allowed to work.
2. Since L1 has a restriction that you should stick to your company, people prefer H1B most.
3. I believe so. But it always depends on your company policies whether to offer a GC for a L1 employ or not.