English
Vietnamese
Italian| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | JD, University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School | MBA (Finance), The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania | Chartered Accountant (ICAEW) |
| Financial Training | Completed Analyst Training Program at a major international bank | Chartered Accountant background with professional training in financial analysis and reporting |
| Legal Practice | Admitted to practice in Georgia (USA) | Registered Solicitor with the Law Society of England & Wales | Former CMBS lawyer at one of the world’s largest international law firms |
| Immigration Track Record | 15+ years advising HNW investors | Zero denials for clients advised on source-of-funds compliance in EB-5 | Hundreds of successful EB-5 cases globally |
| Recognition | Named a Top 25 EB-5 Immigration Attorney by EB5 Investors Magazine (2018–2023) |
| Professional Engagements | Lecturer/trainer for other lawyers at AILA, ACA, University of Pennsylvania Law School | Frequent speaker at global investment immigration conferences |
L-1 Visa Guide for Intracompany Transferees (2026)
Business PlanUS Business Set-UpL1 Visa BlogL1 Visa Costs and L1 Visa FeesL1 Visa RenewalL1 Visa Change of EmployerL1 Visa RequirementsL1 Visa Documents RequiredL1 Visa Process
L-1 Visa at a Glance
| TOPIC | SUMMARY |
|---|---|
| What is it | An intracompany transfer visa. |
| Qualifying Relationship | U.S. and foreign entities must be under common ownership and control (parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate), including identical ownership proportions. Read More >> |
| 1 Year Abroad Rule | Applicant must have worked abroad for the related entity for 1 continuous year within the last 3 years. Read More >> |
| L-1A vs. L-1B | L-1A: managers/executives, up to 7 years*. L-1B: specialized knowledge, up to 5 years*. Read More >> |
| Spousal Work Right | Spouse may work in the U.S. in L-2 status (commonly documented as L-2S). Read More >> |
| New Office Rule | If the U.S. business has been operational for less than 1 year, the New Office rules apply. Read More >> |
| Do I Qualify? | Take our L-1 Visa Qualification Analyzer! |
| What do I do Next? | Contact our L-1 Visa team to discuss your case. |
*Plus recapture time.
Table of Contents
Top 6 L-1 Benefits and Limits in Plain English
- No annual cap and no lottery: Unlike H-1B, the L-1 visa has no annual cap and no lottery, which is often a key reason companies choose L-1.
- Dual intent: L-1 applicants can pursue a green card without automatically undermining their visa or extension strategy.
- Maximum stay: L-1A is capped at 7 years and L-1B is capped at 5 years. Time spent outside the US can often be "recaptured" if documented correctly.
- New office runway: A newly established US office can qualify for an initial L-1 approval even before it fully supports a manager or executive role day to day. The first approval is typically limited to 1 year, and the extension focus is on whether the US business has grown or is likely to grow so it will support a genuine managerial or executive position going forward.
- L-2 spouse work authorization: Many L-2 spouses are employment authorized incident to status, which can make it easier for families to relocate. It is critical to check the "L-2S" notation granted on entry (see below).
- L-1A to EB1C pathway: L-1A executive and managerial criteria closely align with EB1C multinational manager or executive, which is one of the most common green card strategies for L-1A transferees.
Who This Guide Is For
This guide explains the L-1 visa in plain English for employers, entrepreneurs opening a US office, and the transferees themselves. This page also contains links to guides covering aspects of L-1 visas, such as requirements and documentation, in more detail.- Employers planning intra-company transfers and needing a clear eligibility and evidence roadmap
- Entrepreneurs and founders expanding a foreign business into the United States through a new US office
- L-1 transferees and families who want to understand how the petition works, how the visa stage works, and what to expect in practice
L-1 Visa Overview for Employers, Entrepreneurs, and Intracompany Transferees
The L-1 visa allows a qualifying US company to transfer an executive, manager, or specialized knowledge employee from an overseas related company to the United States. It is widely used by established multinationals for internal mobility, and also by entrepreneurs and business owners to launch a new US office while remaining employed by their foreign parent company.The L classification is created by statute and implemented by regulation and agency guidance.
Primary Legal and Policy Sources for the L-1 Visa
- Statute (INA): INA §101(a)(15)(L) (8 U.S.C. §1101(a)(15)(L))
- Regulations (8 CFR): 8 CFR §214.2(l)
- USCIS adjudication guidance: USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L
- Consular guidance (State Department): 9 FAM 402.12 (L visas)
How L-1 Decisions Are Made: USCIS First, Then the Consulate
The L-1 Visa Process in Two Simple Steps
Most L-1 cases involve two decision points, and each decision maker relies on different guidance.Stage 1
USCIS Petition
Employer files Form I-129
USCIS adjudicates eligibility
USCIS Policy Manual
USCIS adjudicates eligibility
USCIS Policy Manual
➔
Stage 2
Consular Processing
Applicant interviews abroad
Consulate issues visa
9 FAM 402.12
Consulate issues visa
9 FAM 402.12
- Stage 1 is USCIS: the employer files a petition, usually Form I-129, and USCIS adjudicates eligibility under the statute and regulations, using the USCIS Policy Manual as the main interpretive framework. See USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L and 8 CFR §214.2(l).
- Stage 2 is the Consulate: if the transferee is outside the US, they apply for the visa at a US consulate. Consular officers are guided by the Foreign Affairs Manual, especially 9 FAM 402.12.
First Stage: USCIS Petition Adjudication (Form I-129)
In most cases, the US employer files Form I-129 requesting L classification for the beneficiary. USCIS evaluates whether the employer and the worker meet the statutory and regulatory requirements for L classification. The governing regulation is 8 CFR §214.2(l), and USCIS organizes its adjudication approach in USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L.Second Stage: Consular Visa Issuance (9 FAM 402.12)
If the transferee is abroad, after USCIS approval they typically proceed to a visa application at a US consulate. Consular officers verify petition approval and assess admissibility and visa eligibility using the Department of State’s guidance in 9 FAM 402.12.L-1 Visa Requirements at a Glance
At a high level, USCIS is evaluating three pillars under 8 CFR §214.2(l) and the interpretive guidance in USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L.The Three Pillars USCIS Evaluates
1. Qualifying corporate relationshipThe US petitioning company and the foreign employing company must have a qualifying relationship such as parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate as defined in 8 CFR §214.2(l). Ownership and control details can be decisive, especially for founder-led structures.
2. Qualifying employment abroad
The beneficiary must generally have been employed abroad by the qualifying organization for one continuous year within the three years preceding admission or change of status, as reflected in 8 CFR §214.2(l) and reinforced in consular practice guidance under 9 FAM 402.12.
3. Qualifying US role
The US role must be executive or managerial (L-1A) or specialized knowledge (L-1B). USCIS explains how it evaluates these roles in USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L, and consular officers apply parallel concepts in 9 FAM 402.12.
For a deeper breakdown, edge cases, and practical interpretation, read our dedicated guide here: L-1 visa requirements.
L-1A vs L-1B
L-1A for executives and managers
L-1A is designed for executives and managers transferring to a qualifying US office. It is often used for senior leadership and for new office founder transfers where the US entity will grow into a functioning operation with staff and business activity. USCIS guidance is consolidated in USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L.L-1B for specialized knowledge employees
L-1B is for specialized knowledge workers whose knowledge is significant to the organization and relevant to the US role. The definition and evidence expectations are treated in USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L and the related classification framework in 8 CFR §214.2(l).New Office L-1 for Entrepreneurs and Founders
Many people associate the L-1 visa with large companies, but it is also a core tool for entrepreneurs expanding to the United States through a qualifying foreign business.What is a New Office Case
Advantages and Disadvantages of the L-1 New Office Rule
Advantages of L-1 New Office Rule:- ✅ New businesses are granted one year to establish and grow.
- ✅ L-1A Managers are given a year to grow into a truly "managerial" position.
- ✅ Founders or key executives can be physically present in the U.S. during the most critical phase of a startup's lifecycle.
- ❌ L-1A visa holders are only granted a one year visa.
- ❌ L-1A manager must apply to renew the visa after one year.
- ❌ Businesses must prove they have the financial "fuel" to keep the office running for a year without revenue.
| Risk Factor | New Office (L-1) | Established Office (L-1) |
|---|---|---|
| Failure Rate | High (at the 1-year extension) | Moderate |
| Documentation | Heavy (Future-focused) | Heavy (Past-performance focused) |
| Financial Burden | High (Cash reserves required) | Moderate (Revenue-based) |
| Site Visit Probability | Very High | Moderate |
What USCIS Look for in a New Office Case
In a new office case, USCIS typically looks for credible evidence that:- The foreign company is real and operating
- The US entity is properly formed and will do business
- There is a physical premises plan
- The US role is truly executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge, and will remain so as the business hires and grows
The business plan is not optional in practice
For new office cases, the business plan often becomes the narrative backbone of the petition because it connects staffing, revenue, operations, and the claimed executive or managerial job duties into a coherent growth story.For a deeper dive into what makes an L plan credible, see: L-1 business plan guide.
L-1 Visa New Office Mini Checklist
In addition to the standard checklist, the following should be included in a New Office L-1 Petition:- Proof the foreign business is operating and can pay and direct the transferee
- Proof the US entity is formed and ready to do business
- Premises plan, even if flexible or serviced office, plus a timeline
- Hiring plan tied to an org chart that protects the executive or manager narrative
- Revenue plan, pipeline, contracts or LOIs where available
- A business plan that ties duties to staffing and growth (see L-1 business plan guide)
Blanket L Petitions
Blanket L is a streamlined option for companies that transfer employees to the US frequently.The Benefit of the Blanket L Process
Once the employer has been granted blanket approval, the blanket process allows certain individual applicants to "skip" the USCIS part of the process and apply directly at the consulate. This can save months.Certain applications will still need to be handled by USCIS.
How to Obtain a Blanket L
The company first obtains a blanket approval under the L regulations in 8 CFR §214.2(l). Eligible employees can then be processed under that blanket framework, often through consular visa issuance guided by 9 FAM 402.12.What Blanket L Does and Does Not Do
- It can simplify repeat transfers by relying on an existing blanket approval rather than building a full petition from scratch each time.
- It does not remove eligibility requirements. Each transferee still must qualify as L-1A or L-1B under INA §101(a)(15)(L) and 8 CFR §214.2(l).
Typical Blanket L Workflow
- Company secures blanket approval
- Company prepares the transferee’s L-1A or L-1B documentation
- If outside the US, the transferee applies at a US consulate under 9 FAM 402.12
Blanket L can be powerful for high-volume transfers, but it is not a shortcut around weak evidence for the beneficiary’s role. Specialized knowledge and managerial evidence still matter, and consular practice can vary by post.
L-1 Visa Process and Timeline Summary
This page summarizes the journey, but you also have a deeper dedicated process guide here: L-1 visa process.Most cases follow this sequence.
Step 1: Strategy and evidence planning
Before filing, strong cases align corporate documents, role descriptions, organization charts, and operational evidence with the expectations in USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L and the statutory and regulatory framework in INA §101(a)(15)(L) and 8 CFR §214.2(l).Step 2: USCIS filing and adjudication
The employer files the petition with USCIS. USCIS adjudicates, may issue a request for evidence, and then approves or denies. The controlling policy framework is in USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L.Step 3: Consular processing or US change of status
If abroad, the beneficiary applies at a US consulate where officers apply 9 FAM 402.12. If inside the US, there may be change of status or extension procedures depending on circumstances, still grounded in 8 CFR §214.2(l).Step 4: Entry, compliance, and future extensions
After entry, the employer must maintain the qualifying relationship and business activity, and the role must remain consistent with L classification principles as discussed in USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L.L-1 Visa Costs and Fees Preview
Filing fees depend on employer size, petition type, and whether the case is a new office filing.Read the complete breakdown here: L-1 visa costs and L-1 visa fees.
Typical cost buckets most applicants should plan for
- USCIS filing fees vary by employer profile and petition type, and can materially change total cost
- Premium processing may be available for certain filings and can change overall planning
- Legal and professional costs often include strategy, evidence drafting, and for new office cases, corporate support and business plan work
- Consular costs can include the DS-160 fee and potential reciprocity fees depending on nationality
Form I-129
Most L-1 petitions begin with filing Form I-129 and supporting evidence with USCIS. Read our guide to Form I-129.L-1 Visa Documents
A strong L-1 petition is not just about Form I-129.A successful L-1 application requires a package of evidence designed to satisfy the regulatory elements in 8 CFR §214.2(l) and the interpretive expectations in USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L.
L-1 Visa Checklist
For the full checklist used in real-world filings, see: L-1 document review checklist.L-1 Renewals and Extensions
L-1 status is not "set and forget." Extensions and renewals typically depend on demonstrating ongoing qualifying corporate relationship, ongoing business activity, and an ongoing qualifying role under 8 CFR §214.2(l) and the role framework in USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L.For a deeper guide on extension strategy and common problems, see: L-1 renewal and extensions.
L-2 Dependent Visas: Spouses and Children
L-1 visa holders can bring their spouse and unmarried children under 21 to the United States on L-2 dependent visas.L-2 Spouse Work Authorization
One of the significant benefits of the L-1 visa is that L-2 spouses are generally authorized to work in the United States. This is commonly documented as "L-2S" on the I-94 arrival record.- Work authorization incident to status: Unlike H-4 spouses, L-2 spouses do not need to file a separate Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application in most cases. Work authorization comes with L-2S status.
- Check your I-94: After entry, verify your I-94 shows "L-2S" classification. This notation confirms work authorization.
- No employer restrictions: L-2 spouses can work for any employer and can be self-employed.
- Duration: Work authorization lasts as long as the L-2 status is valid.
L-2 Children
Unmarried children under 21 years old can accompany the L-1 visa holder on L-2 status. L-2 children:- Can attend school (elementary, secondary, or university)
- Cannot work (unlike L-2 spouses)
- Must maintain status independently once they turn 21
Applying for L-2 Status
L-2 dependents can be included in the initial L-1 petition or apply separately. The process depends on whether they are inside or outside the United States:- Outside the US: Apply for L-2 visa at a US consulate with proof of relationship to the L-1 holder
- Inside the US: File Form I-539 to change or extend status
Special Considerations for India L-1 Visa Applicants
India is by Far the Largest User of L-1 Visas
India is historically the largest user of the L-1 visa category. Many Indian businesses have turned to the L-1 visa as the H-1B working visa has become increasingly difficult to use.In FY 2024, India accounted for 39,729 L-category visas issued. According to Travel.state.gov, this was comprised of 18,578 L-1 visas and 21,151 L-2 visas.
Indian nationals represented about 27.4 percent of all L-category visa issuances in FY 2024, as per Travel.state.gov. China (mainland) was a distant second, with 10,282 L-category visas issued (5,724 L-1 and 4,558 L-2).
Because of volume and post-specific practice, India-linked cases often require extra attention to documentation quality, role clarity, and consistent corporate narrative across USCIS and the consular stage.
High volume means higher scrutiny on clarity
When adjudicators see patterns, they focus on crisp role definitions, reporting lines, and credibility. Aligning the petition narrative with the role framework in USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L and the consular framing in 9 FAM 402.12 reduces avoidable friction.Founder and entrepreneur cases need unusually clean corporate structure
Many India-linked entrepreneur cases involve complex shareholding or group structures. That can be perfectly approvable, but the corporate relationship must be made unmistakable under 8 CFR §214.2(l).Consular practice matters as much as USCIS approval
Even with an approved petition, the visa application is still evaluated at the consulate under 9 FAM 402.12. Preparation should treat this as a second adjudication point, not a formality.Related L-1 Guides on This Site
To make it easy to go deeper, and to make it obvious to AI and search engines that you cover each topic comprehensively:- L-1 document review checklist
- L-1 visa requirements
- L-1 visa costs and L-1 visa fees
- L-1 business plan guide
- L-1 renewal and extensions
- L-1 visa process
Frequently Asked Questions
What law creates the L-1 visa category?
The L classification is defined in INA §101(a)(15)(L) and implemented through 8 CFR §214.2(l).What is the difference between L-1A and L-1B?
L-1A is for executives and managers, while L-1B is for specialized knowledge workers. USCIS explains how it evaluates these categories in the USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L.Is USCIS the only decision maker?
No. USCIS decides the petition, but visa issuance at a consulate is guided by 9 FAM 402.12, and officers still evaluate eligibility and admissibility at the visa stage.Where can I see the full L-1 cost breakdown?
You can find the detailed schedule here: L-1 visa costs and L-1 visa fees.What counts as a parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch for L-1?
USCIS requires a qualifying relationship where the US and foreign entities share ownership and control. A parent owns and controls a subsidiary, affiliates are commonly owned and controlled by the same parent or owners, and a branch is the same legal entity operating in another country.How is the one year abroad requirement counted, and what breaks continuity?
You generally need at least one continuous year of full-time employment abroad for the qualifying organization within the three years before filing. Long breaks in employment, switching employers, or extended periods in the US that disrupt the abroad employment timeline can create problems.What does USCIS mean by manager vs working manager?
A manager primarily directs people or an essential function and has real authority over goals, budget, and performance. A working manager spends most time doing hands-on production work, which often leads to RFEs or denials unless staffing clearly supports a managerial role.What evidence works for L-1B specialized knowledge?
The strongest cases tie the knowledge to your company's proprietary tools, processes, product, or internal systems, backed by project records and detailed company letters. Generic claims like "unique skills" without specifics are usually weak.For a new office L-1, what matters at extension and what triggers RFEs?
USCIS expects proof the US office is real and operating, with activity and hiring that supports an executive or managerial role. RFEs are commonly triggered by too few employees, unclear duties that look hands-on, or business plan projections that are not supported by real traction.Can I go from L-1A to EB-1C, and what is the typical sequence?
Yes. Many people enter on L-1A, then file EB-1C once the US entity is operating with enough structure to show a true executive or managerial role. Timing depends on how quickly you can document staffing, operations, and the qualifying relationship.Can my spouse work on L-2, and what do we need to do?
In many cases, L-2 spouses can work in the US, but the practical steps depend on how status is recorded after entry. The key first step is to check the I-94 for correct classification and then follow the appropriate employment authorization path for that situation.What are the most common L-1 denial reasons, and how can we avoid them?
Most denials come from not proving the qualifying relationship, duties that read like individual contributor work, weak specialized knowledge narratives, or thin staffing in new office cases. You avoid this by aligning the org chart and duty breakdown with real evidence and keeping ownership and employment documentation clean.Disclaimer
This page is general information, not legal advice. L-1 eligibility is fact-specific, and both USCIS policy and consular practice can change. Always confirm current requirements in the primary sources, including 8 CFR §214.2(l), USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 2, Part L, and 9 FAM 402.12.About the Authors
Mark I Davies, Esq.
Chairman of Davies & Associates; focused on E visa strategy and complex consular filings.L-1 Visa Solutions by Country of Nationality or Residency
Select your country for more information
Latest case studies
- August 2024. L1 visa extension petition approved for a manager from India
- June 2024 - Employment-based petition for a multinational executive from India approved in 14 days with premium processing
- August 2024 - L-1 extension petition approved for an executive from India
- June 2024 - New office L-1A petition approved for an executive from Vietnam
- July 2024 - L-1A petition approved for a manager from China
- July 2024 - L-1B Petition Approval for a Specialized Knowledge Employee
- L-1A petition for an executive from India approved for three years
- L-1B visas for specialized knowledge employees of an engineering solutions company in the Semiconductor Industry
- L-1B Petition approved for a specialized knowledge employee from germany
- New office L-1A approved for a manager from India
- CEO from India granted an extension of two years as L-1A intracompany transferee
- New office L-1A petition approved for an executive from Vietnam
- L1 India client video
- L-1A petition approved for three years for an executive from australia
- L-1 petition in the “functional manager category” approved for singaporean national
- L1 Visa for a Multinational Company: How to Transfer Employees from India to the US
- U.S. visas for critical employees of a Singapore-based wealth management company
- L-1A Executive Transfer for Music Production
- L-1A Intracompany Transfer for Small Business Videographer
- L-1A Visa for an Executive of a Birding Tours Company
- L-1A extension petition approved for a canadian manager
- L-1A extension petition approved for an executive from India in 7 days with premium processing
- L1A for Information Technology and I.T. Staffing
- New office L-1A petition approved for an executive from India
- New office L-1A petition approved for an executive from Vietnam
- Success Story: L1A Visa Approval for Nigerian Telecoms Executive
- A client's journey from a denied L-1A petition to Green card
- A client's journey from a denied L-1A petition to green card
- Approved L1-B petition for a specialized knowledge employee from the UK
- August 14th, 2024. L-1 extension petition approved for an executive from India with a Request for Evidence
- July 2024 - Employment-based immigrant petition for a multinational executive from India approved
- L-1 Visa approved by ho chi minh city consulate for an executive from Vietnam
- L-1A extension petition approved for an executive from India
- L-1A petition approved for three years for an operations manager from Germany
- May, 2024 - L1A petition approved for an executive from the United Kingdom
- New office L-1A petition approved for a founder and CEO of the related Vietnamese company
- New office L-1A petition approved for an executive from Vietnam
Contact Davies & Associates Offices in United States
Check all of our locations around the world.
Company location
New York Office World Trade Center
1 World Trade Center,Suite 8500 New York, NY 10007
Map and Driving Directions
New York Office E69th Street
200 E69th Street, 2N,New York , NY 10022
Map and Driving Directions
California Office
555 Anton Blvd Suite 150, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Map and Driving Directions
Philadelphia Office
1500 John F Keneddy Blvd Suite, 450 , PMB 41, Philadelphia , PA 19102
Map and Driving Directions
Los Angeles Office
601 South Figueroa Street Suite 4050 Los Angeles, CA 90017
Map and Driving Directions
Chicago Office
155 N. Upper Wacker Dr. Suite 4250 Chicago, IL 60606
Map and Driving Directions
Miami Office
80 S.W. 8th St Suite 2000 Miami, FL 33130
Map and Driving Directions
Atlanta Office
1075 Peachtree Street NE Suite 3650 Atlanta, GA 30309
Map and Driving Directions
Telephone number
New York Office World Trade Center
+1 212 537 9196
Fax: +1 949 396-1371
New York Office E69th Street
+1 212 537-9196
Fax: +1 949 396-1371
California Office
+1 (949) 620 1811
Fax: +1 949 396-1371
Philadelphia Office
+1 215 525 1881
Fax: +1 949 396-1371
Chicago Office
+1 312 261 8560
Fax: +1 949 396-1371
Miami Office
+1 305 423 7163
Fax: +1 949 396-1371
Contact us by email
Looking to acquire an L1 Visa?
We are known for our creative solutions that obtain "impossible" visas, we solve the most complex immigration problems for businesses, investors, individuals, and families.
L1 Visa Immigration lawyer near meSeveral lawyers told me I would not be able to get a TN visa. Two weeks after contacting Davies & Associates I was working in New York, visa in hand.
Individual seeking 'Impossible' TN VisaD&A was very detail-oriented and was very thorough in what they did” L1 Visa Client. There was a lot of work on my case and worked on it 24/7 and was very patient answering all my questions.
E2 Visa ClientMy case felt complex but D&A managed the whole process carefully and helped me move seamlessly from one stage to the next.
E2 + CBI ClientD&A was my guiding light through the entire EB5 Process.
EB5 Visa ClientI would definitely be a big advocate for the rest of my life for anyone wanting to explore the Grenada Citizenship by Investment Programme leading to the E2 Visa. The most important thing is a good team behind you.. with Davies & Associates you’re in safe hands… you need someone who can give you all the support at the ground level and, again, you are well take care of by D&A. The people are really warm, very helpful and quite openminded when it comes to business… Not to mention as a passport it’s great from a travel perspective…It’s just 4/5 hours from New York.
Grenada CBI + E2 Visa ClientThe entire process of getting an EB5 visa is handled in a professional way by Mark Davies and his team. EB5 is a wonderful option for anyone considering moving to the United States if you have the means. I was hoping to use the H1B route for my children, but it became unreliable and so I looked to the EB5 Visa instead. It is great for anyone who has the resources. Mark gives you the first meetings himself which gives you great comfort. Both Mark and Sanjay are abundantly available and I even had the pleasure of hosting them at my house.
Parent of 2 EB5 Visa HoldersI'm in a process of extending my L1 visa. I submitted a few questions regarding my case and he contacted me back almost immediately both by e-mail and telephone. Unlike other attorneys I met before, he gave me the impression of knowing from the top of his head what kind of visa I have, and what actions had to be taken to extend it. He is very thorough and clear regarding the process and what to expect in terms of timelines and issues that may arise. He is constantly in contact, so you definitely know he's working on your case.
L1B Visa HolderMark Davies is a joy to work with. His extensive knowledge, speedy response and attentive service took away all my fears of dealing with immigration and visa applications. He is very generous with his time in explaining every step along the way and I have already and will in the future recommend him to anybody who is looking for an immigration lawyer.
E2 Visa for Small Professional Business With International OfficesDavies & Associates assisted us with an immigration emergency involving my brother's fiancée who was outside the United States. They assisted us in a highly professional manner, working with the relevant US embassy, US immigration and the governments of two other countries. As a result of their efforts the individual involved is now working in the United States. While their knowledge of the law is exemplary what really distinguishes this firm and attorney Davies from any other firm we have worked with is their dedication to customer service and their unrivaled level of professionalism.
Complex Fiancée Visa Need Involving Multiple International JurisdictionsSeveral lawyers told me I would not be able to get a TN visa. Two weeks after contacting Davies & Associates I was working in New York, visa in hand. I have recommended this firm to several friends and colleagues, they do an excellent job every time.
Individual Seeking 'Impossible' TN VisaI was qualified as a physician in a foreign country. Being on a J1 visa I was facing having to leave the United States and return to my home country. Davies & Associates secured one of only 30 J1 visa waivers available in my State, allowing me to work for a US hospital and remain in the United States.
Doctor Seeking J1 Visa WaiverI am very satisfied with the services Mark Davies has provided me. He has a very extensive knowledge in immigration laws and has a thorough approach to any case.
U Visa Applicant, A Victim of CrimeLooking to relocate or having trouble with a visa application?
We are known for our creative solutions that obtain "impossible" visas, we solve the most complex immigration problems for business, investors, individuals and families.
Request Free ConsultationOur Locations
New York Office World Trade Center:
1 World Trade Center,Suite 8500 New York, NY 10007
+1 212 537 9196
Map and Driving Directions
New York Office E69th Street:
200 E69th Street, 2N,New York , NY 10022
+1 212 537-9196
Map and Driving Directions
California Office:
555 Anton Blvd Suite 150, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
+1 (949) 620 1811
Map and Driving Directions
Philadelphia Office:
1500 John F Keneddy Blvd Suite, 450 , PMB 41, Philadelphia , PA 19102
+1 215 525 1881
Map and Driving Directions
London Office:
69 Old Broad Street, Dashwood House, London EC2M 1QS, United Kingdom
+44 20 388418126
Map and Driving Directions
Edinburgh Office:
28 Rutland Square, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH1 2BW
+44 131 3920686
Map and Driving Directions
Vietnam Office:
46th Floor, Bitexco Financial Tower, 2 Hai Trieu, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
+84 28 6287 5912
Map and Driving Directions
India Office:
Enam Sambhav C-20, G Block, Bandra-Kurla Complex, MUMBAI - 400051, 27-Maharashtra
+91 720 8564057
Map and Driving Directions
Italy Office:
Via Bonifacio Lupi, 29, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy
+39 055 0763054
Map and Driving Directions
Manila Office:
Unit 107 AIC Burgundy Empire Tower, ADB Ave. cor Garnet and Sapphire Streets Ortigas Center, Pasig City 1605, Metro Manila, Philippines
+63 (02) 7 2157878
Map and Driving Directions
Sydney Office:
Level 12, 210 George Street Sydney, Australia 2000
+61 2 91561032
Map and Driving Directions
Singapore Office:
160 Robinson Road, #14-04 Singapore Business Federation Centre, Singapore 068914
65 8012 9546
Map and Driving Directions
France office:
1 Parv. de la Défense, 92800 Puteaux, France
+44 7740 000769
Map and Driving Directions
Looking for an Immigration attorney?
Immigration lawyer near meList of US Embassies, Consulates and USCIS
List of Italian Embassies, Consulates and USCIS
Important Links
Copyright @2026 by Davies & Associates LLC.