For certain executives and managers, the L-1 visa creates a way to work in America without leaving behind their connections with companies from abroad. It is a must-have visa category for companies needing their top talent to lead from the United States, allowing employees and families alike to transition smoother running here.
The L-1 visa focuses not only on the individual but also on the family. Once approved, spouses and children of the qualified employee can come into the U.S. too. This makes it very attractive to people taking professional opportunities with them who want a turnkey experience, including their family. In this article, we reveal how the insourcing process happens and what are necessary steps to get all families aboard.
Eligibility and Application Process for Family Members
The L-2 visa is a category developed for the dependents of those who hold an L-1A or B non-immigrant status. It covers spouses and unmarried people under 21 years old. It will allow you to live and work in the U.S. with your spouse. All of these benefits can be shared by themselves as dependents under the L-1 category visa holder. It is important to note that these eligibility requirements correspond to each member of a family, so before beginning the application process, it should be ensured all members are eligible.
The application process comes next after eligibility is verified. The family members need to complete the required forms, which are usually DS-160 forms. This form contains basic info about each applicant and directly ties them to the L-1A principal. Once the form is submitted, each applicant will have to set up and attend an in-person interview at their closest U.S. embassy. The consular officer shall ask for documentary evidence to confirm that you are related to the L-1 visa, and it will be in this interview.
Proof of this relationship is determined by supportive documents such as marriage certificates for spouses and birth certificate proofs when it comes to children. It helps in legalizing the application without causing delay. If you need help, The Law Office of Olena Manilich will be happy to assist you through the entire process. Check our L-1 Visa services today.
Rights and Opportunities for L-2 Dependents
Each of these rights and opportunities can help make the transition easier, more manageable, and just overall more beneficial to L-2 dependents when living in the U.S. For spouses, the great benefit is applying for work authorization once they have landed in the U.S. This means that endless doors of career advancement options will be unlocked to help them pursue a profession. It allows the family to not only provide financially but also integrate into their community.
For children, the L-2 visa allows them to study in the US from elementary school age up through high school and beyond. They will eventually get used to school life, make friends, and blend in. By participating in local educational or recreational programs, kids get the maximum amount out of their experience. They can acclimate themselves more quickly for the whole family.
The L-2 visa duration usually matches the L-1 holder’s status, so family members won’t face any surprises about having to leave sooner. Thus, whenever the L-1 holder extends their visa, then next by doing this, it can extend all family members together. If the L-1 holder opts to apply for a Green Card, the L-2 dependents can typically participate in that process as well. All of the members of the family may become U.S. permanent residents together. If you have questions or need help, please schedule your consultation today!
Conclusion
Bringing the family along on an L-1 visa not only makes professional transitions easier but also keeps life’s most important connections intact. It keeps families together. However, the L-2 visa provides an opportunity for families to start their lives in America together. This can make transitioning to a new country much easier for everyone.
The Law Office of Olena Manilich, we grasp the importance of it, and we are by your side all through. We guide in preparing applications and ensuring no error is made while doing documentation. If you are ready to take the plunge, contact us today. We can help actualize that.
