Non-Immigrant Visa
L-1 — Intracompany Transfer
The most strategic route for Brazilian founders WITHOUT dual citizenship who want a green card. L-1A → EB-1C is direct, no PERM, with Brazil queue CURRENT in 2026.
L-1A vs L-1B
| Item | L-1A (Exec/Manager) | L-1B (Specialized) |
|---|---|---|
| Max total stay | 7 years | 5 years |
| Green-card conversion | EB-1C (no PERM) | EB-2/EB-3 (with PERM) |
| Typical timeline to GC | 18–36 months | 24–48 months |
| Criterion | Executive or managerial | Proprietary knowledge |
For owner-operators: almost always L-1A.
Company requirements
- Brazilian company with 1+ year of continuous genuine operation
- US company (can be new — new-office L-1) with qualifying relationship
- Beneficiary worked at the Brazilian entity in exec/manager/specialized role 1 of the last 3 years
- US company will have real function, physical space, robust business plan
New Office L-1 — opening from scratch
If your US company doesn't exist yet, apply as New Office L-1. Initial approval only 1 year (not 3). After that year, demonstrate real operation, team, revenue → extend 2–3 years. Critical points:
- Business plan with 3-year projections
- Physical space (signed lease)
- Adequate capital in a US account
- Plan to hire US employees
- Clear corporate structure
L-1A → EB-1C: the strategic green-card route
Most L-1A holders file EB-1C 6–12 months after L-1A approval, once the US operation has real traction. EB-1C doesn't require PERM — saves 12–18 months vs other routes. Brazilians have no EB-1 backlog, so priority date is CURRENT right after I-140. Typical timeline: L-1A approved months 0–2 → operation running 0–6 months → EB-1C I-140 months 6–12 → I-140 approved 6–12 months → I-485 or consular 6–18 months. Total: 18–36 months from L-1A to permanent green card.
Cost
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| USCIS I-129 fee (L-1) | varies |
| Premium Processing I-129 | $2,965 |
| USCIS I-140 (EB-1C) | $715 + $600 APF |
| Premium Processing I-140 | $2,965 |
| USCIS I-485 | $1,440/person |
| L-1 firm fees | $6,500–9,500 |
| EB-1C firm fees (conversion) | $8,500–13,500 |
| Integrated L-1A + EB-1C package | discounted vs separate |
Why L-1 with Pinho Law
Dra. Izi Pinho published in the Stetson Law Review on Florida corporate structures — article cited by Harvard Law School Forum on Corporate Governance. For Brazilian founders, this means your US corporate structure is designed by a firm with documented academic depth in American business law — not just immigration. Bad L-1 cases fail because the US entity is poorly structured. We structure both at the same time.
Frequently asked questions
Does a Brazilian need dual citizenship for L-1?
No. L-1 doesn't require a bilateral treaty. Any Brazilian with a qualifying Brazilian company and US structure can apply.
How long can I stay in the US on L-1?
L-1A: up to 7 years. L-1B: up to 5 years. Initial approval typically 3 years (1 year for new office), with extensions.
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Spouse and unmarried children under 21 get L-2. L-2 spouses receive automatic work authorization.
When should I file EB-1C?
6–12 months after L-1A approval, once US operation has real traction. For new-office L-1, wait until after the first extension.
What if my Brazilian company has less than 1 year?
L-1 doesn't qualify. Alternatives: E-2 (with treaty-country dual citizenship), EB-5 (if you have capital), or wait until Brazilian company hits 1 year.
Do I need a business plan for L-1?
For new-office L-1, yes — a practical requirement. For L-1 at existing branch, strongly helpful but not strictly required.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule a consultation today. We will listen, assess your situation, and give you a clear path forward — in the language you are most comfortable with.