L-2 Visa for Dependents of L-1 Applicants

The L-1 visa is a type of visa that allows investors to come to the U.S. to take on the role of executive, senior manager, or specialized knowledge worker for a business in the U.S. So, can their dependents come to the U.S. to study and work alongside the applicant? The L-2 visa is specifically designed for the dependents of L-1 visa holders, allowing the spouse and children of L-1 investors to accompany them to the U.S. In this article, MAP will address all the questions readers may have about the L-2 visa.

What is an L-2 Visa? 

The L-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows entry into the United States for the spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 of valid L-1 visa holders. Before 2002, individuals in L-2 status were not permitted to work in the U.S. However, since 2002, the spouses of individuals in L-1A or L-1B status have been allowed to apply for work authorization in the U.S. Individuals in L-2 status who wish to work must obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). In 2021, the law was amended to allow qualifying spouses to automatically receive an EAD through their L-2 status application. Dependent children in L-2 status are not permitted to work in the U.S., but they can participate in educational programs. The permitted duration of stay is for as long as the L-1 visa holder maintains valid status, or up to seven years, whichever is shorter. 

Benefits of the L-2 Visa 

• Spouses and children can live legally in the U.S.

• Spouses can work (full-time or part-time) at any company after obtaining an EAD. 

• Children can receive free education in public schools and enjoy social benefits like native residents.

• Can transition to other non-immigrant statuses such as F-1, B1/B2, H-1B/H-4, or L-1.

• May be eligible for a green card if the L-1 visa holder is approved for permanent residency.

L-2 Visa Application Process for Applicants 

For L-2 Visa Applicants 

• Completed DS-160 form.

• Visa application fee of $470 (for paper applications) and $420 (for online applications)

• Interview appointment letter from the consulate or embassy. 

• Photos (according to the embassy/consulate requirements).

• Valid passport of L-2 visa applicants.

•  Marriage certificate and other documents proving the marriage, such as wedding photos, invitations, etc.

• Birth certificates.

For L-1 Visa Applicants 

• A current and valid passport.

• Documentation approving the inclusion of dependents by the L-1 visa holder.

• Form I-797, the approval notice from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

• A letter from the U.S. company where the L-1 visa holder is employed.

• The income tax return and pay stubs of the L-1 visa holder.

Note 

L-2 applicants can submit their visa application simultaneously with the L-1 applicant or submit it later. The processing time for the application is approximately 3-4 months (similar to the L-1 visa processing time).

Duration and Renewal of the L-2 Visa 

Duration of the L-2 Visa 

The L-2 visa is a dependent visa, and its duration is tied to that of the L-1 visa holder. The L-2 visa can be valid for a maximum of 7 years if the dependent is of an L-1A visa holder and for 5 years if the dependent is of an L-1B visa holder.

Renewal of the L-2 Visa 

Similar to the L-1 visa renewal process, the applicant needs to submit Form I-539 (Application to Change or Extend Nonimmigrant Status) and pay a fee of $470 (for paper applications) or $420 (for online applications) to request an extension of the L-2 visa either in the U.S. or at the consulate in their country of residence.

Conclusion   

The L-2 visa is an excellent option for the families of L-1 visa investors, providing them the opportunity to live, study, and work together in the U.S. If you have any questions or need further information, seek professional advice to ensure a smooth visa application process.