Successfully shifting from L-1B to L-1A: Navigating the Shift from Specialized Knowledge to Personnel Management

Written by: Hannah Welbourn

Last year, we successfully assisted a client securing an L-1A visa for a candidate whose position abroad was based on specialized knowledge of the organization’s propriety tools, processes, and methodologies, but whose U.S. role was classified as personnel manager. Given the change in classification, we developed a tailored strategy to align the expert opinion letter with USCIS requirements and effectively demonstrate the candidate’s managerial qualifications.  

The beneficiary previously held the role of Vice President, Technology at a high-profile finance company’s India location and was applying for an intracompany transfer to Vice President, Technology in the US. While the job title remained the same, their role in the US required personnel management duties. We needed to demonstrate that the US position met the criteria for personnel management despite their previous focus on specialized knowledge at the company in India.  

To do this, we were provided with a detailed job description for both roles, along with a list of the candidate’s knowledge areas specific to the company’s operations in India. One of our experts in the field of business then provided the expert opinion letter. After analyzing the foreign role thoroughly, the letter shifted to the candidate’s managerial responsibilities that they would continue to hold in the US, and we made sure to clearly differentiate between the two roles while demonstrating that the candidate qualified for the intracompany transfer. We also demonstrated how the US role was strategic rather than operational, ensuring that the position aligned with USCIS’s definition of personnel management.  

This case highlighted our ability to navigate complex challenges that can come with specific visa transitions. If your company is facing a similar challenge, we are here to provide the support and guidance needed for a smooth and successful application process.