Secure Your L-1 Visa: Master the One-Year Rule

Launch Your U.S. Career with Confidence

Welcome to the Law Offices of Chris M. Ingram’s L-1 Visa video series! We’re excited to clarify the critical one-year-in-three rule, ensuring your path to a U.S. intracompany transfer visa is seamless and successful.

Understand the One-Year-in-Three Rule

For an L-1 visa, you must have worked continuously for the petitioning company for one full year within the past three years. Took a break (e.g., maternity leave)? No problem—past employment counts. For example, John, a senior manager at Michael Motors, left after five years but returned within two years. His prior service qualifies him for an L-1 to lead a U.S. branch.

Watch U.S. Time Deductions

Time spent in the U.S. (over 30 days) doesn’t count toward the one-year requirement. For instance, Marcus, a senior analyst at PCSI for 14 months, spent three months in the U.S., leaving only 11 months of qualifying foreign service. He’d need one more month abroad before applying.

Short Breaks Don’t Reset the Clock

Terminated and rehired within 16 days? Your service is considered continuous. Longer breaks are fine if you’ve already completed one year within the past three years.

Explore Our L-1 Visa Series

This video covers topic 2 of our 14-part L-1 series, including Managers, Executives & Specialists, Start-Up or Existing U.S. Branch, and more. Contact us for a free consultation to navigate the L-1 process and secure your U.S. future today!

1 – Managers, Executives & Specialists