Case Studies: L-1A Visa for an Executive of a Birding Tours Company
Client: | L-1A Visa for an Executive of a Birding Tours Company |
Industry: | Eco-Tourism |
Visa Type: | L-1A |
Country: | South Africa |

“My wife Megan and I are impressed with Davies and Associates. When I first spoke to Mark Davies on the phone a couple of years ago, they were extremely helpful. They encouraged me to ask as many questions as possible and to take as much of their time as I wanted, before making a decision about whether to proceed with an L1 visa application (to open an office of Birding Ecotours in the USA). They did not in any way push to get my business, but instead gave an honest appraisal and even in fact gave me other options for my consideration (that would not lead to business for them) as they genuinely seemed to want to help. Indeed, they took a keen interest in me and my business and carefully gathered my information, making sure to get the facts together properly so as to advise me accurately. I eventually decided to proceed with the visa using their services, since they seemed honest and genuine and also told me I probably would get the visa if I tried. They did exactly what they said they would do – the process went as expected and I did get the visa (and am enjoying being in the USA right now). Verdie Atienza was our main point of contact in the firm during the process, and he was absolutely brilliant to work with. He was very knowledgeable, knew exactly what he was doing and always worked unbelievably hard and ef ciently to get everything done in good time.”
Highlights & Challenges
The L-1 visa, also known as the intracompany transferee visa, is a nonimmigrant visa classification that allows companies to transfer employees from a related foreign entity to a U.S. company. In recent years, L-1 petitions have been subject to heightened levels of scrutiny. This is particularly true for petitions led by multinational companies with new and relatively small offices in the United States.
The client’s Company in South Africa operates birding tours, offering avid birders the chance to see new birds, checking off their lifetime lists in about 60 countries around the globe. It also offers some specialized tours, such as birding photo trips that are built around both accommodating photographic equipment as well as maximizing visual appeal of viewing sites. The new affiliate office in the US intended to offer the same types of services. Due to the unique nature of the industry, it was a challenge to gather and present all the required documentation to establish eligibility for the transfer of the client as an executive.
Our firm managed to present a strong case to the USCIS and the petition was immediately approved without request for evidence (RFE).
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I had a great experience with Davies & Associates. They are very thorough in the approach and their have experts in this field who know the domain very well.I would certainly be leaning onto them for any future needs as well.
Thanks to them for handling my E2 visa very professionally. I had a study visa from F1 and changed it to E2. I encountered many problems during the application process. Verdie and Etta were very patient in helping me and it took a long time. I highly recommend this place.
Outstanding Immigration Attorney: Highly Recommended! Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5) I had the pleasure of working with Verdie Atienza and his team at Davies & Associates , a top-notch immigration attorney in the United States. Their professionalism, expertise, and dedication throughout the process were exceptional. With in-depth knowledge of immigration law, they provided accurate advice and addressed all my concerns, instilling confidence. Verdie Atienza and his team meticulously reviewed my documentation and maintained excellent communication, keeping me updated regularly. What sets Davies & Associates apart is their unparalleled attention to detail. Communication with Verdie Atienza and his team in USA and Sukanya Raman in India was always prompt and efficient. They promptly returned my calls and emails, providing regular updates on the progress of my case. This level of responsiveness and transparency significantly reduced my stress levels, as I knew I could rely on their support and guidance throughout the entire process. Their personalized approach, ethical conduct, and genuine care for my success made them an outstanding attorney. I highly recommend Davies & Associates for all your immigration needs.
Getting my E2 Visa was a very in-depth process that took just over a year from when I committed to it, but 8 months from when I found a business I wanted to purchase. The only reason I'm giving 4 and not 5 stars is because the timeframe was a lot longer than expected from the initial information. Aside from the timing, Verdie and his team led me through the Visa process, providing all the guidance I needed to be successful, including advising me on the RIGHT type of Visa to suit my goals. Within the process I purchased a business and the greater Davies team included lawyer Rinat who helped me put the deal together. One of the biggest parts was my Business Plan which created from my info by Ana Ortiz, who did an incredible job. The process is certainly tedious and Verdie & Christina were always there to answer my questions, provide suggestions and advice and ensure I had all the documents I needed to support my application. I appreciated their patience with my questions and their advice and in the end, the application was so thorough the interview process was quick and easy. I highly recommend Davies & Associates and look forward to working with them again when it's time to renew my Visa.
We were in a hurry and Verdie and the team were highly responsive and supportive, even when we threw in some curve balls along the way. We had our visas approved without any issues and felt confident and well prepared for document submissions and the interview. I'd certainly recommend this team for an E2 visa process.
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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 an 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.
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