Mark I. Davies is a UK National who has moved to the US. He is a licensed solicitor in the UK [SRA No.: 384468] and is also licensed to practice in the US.

L1 Visa Lawyer in Japan: Transfer Key Employees to the U.S. with Ease

Davies & Associates helps Japanese and multinational companies expand to the United States through efficient L1 visa solutions.

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What is the L1 Visa

Facilitating Intra-Company Transfers from Japan to the U.S.

The L1 visa allows international companies to transfer executives, managers, or employees with specialised knowledge from Japan or overseas branch to a U.S. subsidiary, affiliate, or parent company. It supports both established businesses expanding their American presence and entrepreneurs launching new U.S. operations under “new office” provisions.

Davies & Associates advises on both L1A (executives and managers) and L1B (specialised knowledge) categories, ensuring each application meets USCIS and consular requirements.

L1 Benefits

A Streamlined Route for Global Business Expansion

The L1 visa offers significant advantages for Japanese companies and professionals:

Our experienced legal team ensures that your intra-company transfers align with both immigration law and corporate objectives.

L1 Visa Requirements

Eligibility Criteria for L1 Applicants

To qualify for an L1 visa, you must:

  • Have worked for a qualifying organisation abroad for at least one continuous year within the last three years
  • Be transferring to a U.S. branch, parent, subsidiary, or affiliate of the same employer
  • Be entering the U.S. in an executive, managerial, or specialised knowledge capacity
  • The Japanese or foreign company and the U.S. entity must maintain a qualifying relationship

Davies & Associates provides detailed documentation support to prove eligibility, including organisational charts, employment records, and corporate structure verification.

L1 Visa Application Process & Timeline

From Petition to Approval — Step by Step

Eligibility Assessment

We confirm qualifying relationships and your employment history.

Petition Filing (Form I-129)

The U.S. employer files your petition with USCIS, supported by evidence of the business relationship and your role.

Approval & Consular Processing

Once approved, you attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Visa Issuance & Entry

Upon approval, you may travel and begin work in the U.S.

Typical processing times range from 3 to 6 months, with premium processing available for faster results.

L1 Visa Cost

Transparent Fees and Strategic Guidance

USCIS filing fees for L1 visas generally range from USD $460 to $500, excluding additional fraud prevention or premium processing fees.

Davies & Associates offers competitive legal packages that include:

Every client receives a clear cost outline before we begin—no hidden fees, no surprises.

L1 Visa to a Green Card

Transition from Temporary Transfer to Permanent Residency

The L1A visa is considered a “dual intent” visa, meaning holders can pursue permanent residency while in the U.S. Many L1A executives and managers later transition to the EB-1C Green Card category without labour certification.

Our immigration attorneys create integrated long-term strategies so Japanese businesses and executives can move seamlessly from temporary status to permanent settlement.

What Our Clients Say About Us

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Speak to a Japan-Based L1 Visa Lawyer Today

Book a consultation with Davies & Associates to discuss your company’s U.S. expansion plans.
Our legal team provides tailored L1 visa strategies for executives, managers, and specialists relocating to the U.S.


Start your process today.