The maximum duration of stay in the United States under L-1A status is 7 years. Initially, a foreign executive or manager is granted up to 1 year if entering to establish a new office, or up to 3 years for an existing office. This can be followed by extensions in 2-year increments, not to exceed a total of 7 years.

If you are coming to the U.S. to open a new office, the initial L-1A visa duration is limited to 1 year. This short duration allows USCIS to later reassess the viability of the new business before granting extensions.

For an employee transferring to work at an existing U.S. office of a multinational company, the initial L-1A visa approval is valid for up to three (3) years. During this time, the employee must perform in an executive or managerial role. The sponsoring employer may apply for extensions as needed, provided that the qualifying relationship and job duties remain valid.