Question 1

Do I need a local attorney in Vancouver for L-1?

Accepted Answer

Immigration law is federal, so you can work with any licensed U.S. immigration attorney regardless of where you are located. Watson Immigration Law is based in Seattle and serves clients throughout the Pacific Northwest including Vancouver, as well as clients across the United States and internationally. We offer virtual consultations and handle cases remotely.

Question 2

How long does L-1 processing take for Vancouver applicants?

Accepted Answer

Processing times are the same regardless of where you are located — 1–6 months standard; 15 business days with premium processing. USCIS processes petitions at service centers, not by the applicant's location. For consular interviews (E-2, L-1), processing times depend on the specific U.S. consulate, typically 2–8 weeks.

Question 3

What is the difference between L-1A and L-1B?

Accepted Answer

L-1A is for managers and executives — those who manage an organization, department, function, or component, or who direct the organization at the highest levels. L-1A can lead to an EB-1C green card (multinational manager/executive) without a PERM labor certification. L-1B is for employees with 'specialized knowledge' — deep knowledge of the company's proprietary products, services, research, or procedures. L-1B does not have the same direct green card pathway.

Question 4

Can I use L-1 to open a new U.S. office?

Accepted Answer

Yes. L-1 is frequently used by foreign companies establishing a U.S. presence. The initial visa for a new office is granted for only 1 year, giving the company time to demonstrate the U.S. office is operational and growing. After 1 year, the visa can be extended for 2-year increments. A business plan and evidence of funding/office space are required.

Question 5

How does L-1A lead to a green card?

Accepted Answer

L-1A managers and executives are eligible for the EB-1C immigrant category, which does not require a PERM labor certification (a lengthy and uncertain process). This is one of the fastest employment-based green card pathways available. To qualify, the person must have been employed as a manager/executive for at least 1 year by the petitioning U.S. employer.

Question 6

What is a blanket L petition?

Accepted Answer

Large multinational companies with a history of L-1 approvals can obtain a 'blanket L' petition from USCIS, which pre-approves the company for L-1 transfers. Individual employees can then obtain L-1 visas at U.S. consulates more quickly by referencing the blanket approval, without filing a separate I-129 for each transfer.

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