For how long is the L-1 visa valid?

Usually, the L-1 visa is issued for an initial period of three years. Exception: the transfer to a new office in the US – in this case the initial period is only one year.

The visa can be extended for two years at a time.

The maximum validity for the L-1 visa category is seven years, i.e. it can be extended twice.

The L-1B visa has a maximum validity of five years.

IMPORTANT: After the maximum stay of five or seven years respectively, the L-1 transferee cannot apply for a further extension. He or she has to spend at least one year outside the US before being eligible for the H- or L-status again. Short business trips or visits are, of course, still possible.

A status change to E-1 or E-2, however, is possible immediately.