25 October 2024
A Blanket L Petition can be a highly effective strategy for multinational companies seeking to transfer employees between international offices and the U.S. This petition simplifies the often lengthy and expensive standard L-1 visa process by allowing companies to avoid individual adjudications for each employee. Instead, employees can apply directly for their L-1 visas at U.S. consulates, greatly speeding up the process and cutting down administrative costs.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Blanket L Petition, a company must meet specific criteria, including:
- Engaging in commercial trade or services.
- Having an operational U.S. office for at least one year.
- Having at least three domestic or international branches, subsidiaries, or affiliates.
- Additionally, the company must meet one of the following:
- 10 approved L-1 petitions in the past year.
- A combined annual revenue of at least $25 million.
- A workforce of at least 1,000 U.S.-based employees.
Advantages of the Blanket L Petition
- Faster Processing: Employees can directly apply at consulates, cutting down time compared to individual USCIS adjudications.
- Cost-Effective: Streamlining the process helps reduce administrative and legal costs.
- Flexibility: It facilitates the quick transfer of multiple employees, which is particularly useful for businesses needing to move personnel on short notice.
Is It the Right Strategy for Your Business?
If your company meets the qualifications, the Blanket L Petition can be an excellent way to ensure a smooth transfer of employees while minimizing delays and costs. However, it is important to ensure that the petition is properly prepared and filed to avoid any potential issues with compliance.
For businesses exploring whether the Blanket L Petition fits their needs, it’s highly recommended to seek legal guidance. VKM Law Group can help assess your company’s eligibility and navigate the process, ensuring your multinational workforce transitions seamlessly.