What are the L1 visa requirements for Indian citizens?

Introduction: Your Gateway to the U.S. — The L1 Visa for Indian Professionals

If you’re an Indian executive, manager, or a specialised knowledge employee working for a multinational company, the L1 visa might be your ideal route to legally work and live in the United States. Designed for intra-company transfers, this non-immigrant visa is especially beneficial for Indian business owners and employees seeking opportunities to grow professionally on American soil.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything Indian citizens need to know about the L1 visa in 2025 — including eligibility, documents, costs, processing time, and frequently asked questions.

Client Spotlight: What Is the L1 Visa?

The L1 visa is a U.S. nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign companies to transfer certain employees to a related U.S. company. There are two types:

L1A Visa – For executives and managers (valid up to 7 years)

L1B Visa – For employees with specialised knowledge (valid up to 5 years)

Indian citizens can use the L1 visa to:

Transfer to an existing U.S. office

Start a new U.S. office for their Indian company (New Office L1 Visa)

L1 Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

Here’s what Indian applicants need to qualify:

1. Qualifying Employer Relationship

The U.S. employer must have a qualifying relationship (parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch) with the Indian company.

2. Minimum Work Experience

The applicant must have worked full-time for the Indian company for at least one year within the last three years before applying.

3. Position Type

For L1A: Must be an executive or managerial role.

For L1B: Must possess specialised knowledge relevant to the business.

4. Intention to Work in a Similar U.S. Role

The job in the U.S. must match the duties and level of the overseas role.

5. New Office Option (for Entrepreneurs)

Indian entrepreneurs can open a new office in the U.S. and apply for L1A, provided they meet all qualifications and set up the U.S. entity correctly.

L1 Visa Process for Indian Citizens (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)

Determine Eligibility: Confirm both the employer and employee meet the L1 requirements.

Set Up U.S. Entity (if needed): For new offices, establish a legally recognized U.S. business.

Form I-129 Petition: U.S. employer files this petition with USCIS.

Premium Processing (Optional): Get your petition reviewed in 15 business days for an additional $2,500.

Visa Interview in India: After USCIS approval, book your visa interview at a U.S. Consulate (like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, or Hyderabad).

Visa Issuance: Once approved, expect visa delivery within 5–7 days.

Required Documents for L1 Visa (India)

Valid passport
DS-160 confirmation
Form I-797 (USCIS approval notice)
I-129 petition and supporting documents
Company support letter
Proof of employment for at least 1 year
Organisational charts (to prove managerial/executive roles)
U.S. business registration documents (for new office cases)

Benefits of the L1 Visa for Indian Citizens

No annual cap – Unlike the H1B visa

Spouse work authorization (L2 visa)

Pathway to U.S. Green Card (EB-1C or EB-3 categories)

No educational degree requirement

Relatively fast processing

L1 Visa FAQs for Indian Applicants

Q: Can I apply for an L1 visa while in the U.S. on a tourist or student visa?
A: Yes, via a change of status application with USCIS, if you meet all requirements.

Q: Can my spouse work in the U.S. while I’m on an L1 visa?
A: Yes, with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Q: How long is the L1 visa valid?
A: L1A – up to 7 years, L1B – up to 5 years (initial approval may be shorter).

Q: Is a birth or marriage certificate required?
A: Marriage certificate – Yes (for L2 spouse visa). Birth certificate – Not mandatory.

Q: Can L1 visa holders apply for a Green Card?
A: Yes! L1A → EB-1C, L1B → EB-3

Q: What is a Blanket L1 Visa?
A: For large Indian companies sending multiple employees. Reduces the need to file individual petitions.

Final Thoughts: Ready to Make Your Move?

With no annual cap, fast processing, and family-friendly perks, the L1 visa is one of the best ways for Indian professionals and business owners to enter the U.S. market legally. Therefore, whether you’re expanding your business or getting transferred to a U.S. branch, now is the perfect time to act.

So, book a free consultation with an experienced L1 visa attorney and get expert help in making your U.S. dream a reality!