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⚠️ Informational only. Immigration rules change. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
How to Choose: H-1B vs L-1
H-1B and L-1 serve fundamentally different situations. H-1B is for new hires — employers sponsoring new employees in specialty occupations. L-1 is exclusively for employees transferring within the same multinational company from a foreign office to a US office. If you're currently employed at a foreign subsidiary of a US company, or a US company with foreign affiliates, L-1 is often faster than H-1B: no lottery, no cap, and no Labor Condition Application with the DOL. However, L-1 requires at least 1 year of employment at the qualifying company abroad within the last 3 years. L-1A (managerial/executive) can lead to EB-1C green card, which has no PERM labor certification requirement. L-1B (specialized knowledge) is more scrutinized but available for employees with detailed expertise in company-specific systems or processes. The practical advice: if you're transferring internally within a multinational, L-1 is typically the better first choice. If you're seeking outside employment in the US, H-1B is the primary route.
H-1B
Visa TypeNonimmigrant
Duration3 yrs (extendable to 6)
SponsorshipRequired
Annual CapYes (85,000/yr lottery)
Green Card PathGreen card possible
Premium ProcessingYes ($2,965)
Wage RequirementPrevailing wage required
L-1
Visa TypeNonimmigrant
Duration1–3 yrs
SponsorshipRequired (same employer)
Annual CapNo cap
Green Card PathEB-1C possible
Premium ProcessingYes
Wage RequirementPrevailing wage not required
Approval Rate Comparison
H-1B Approval History
| Year | Petitions | Approval Rate |
|---|
| 2024 | 320,000 | 8500.0% |
| 2024 | 460,000 | 9300.0% |
| 2024 | 780,000 | 1090.0% |
L-1 Approval History
| Year | Petitions | Approval Rate |
|---|
| 2024 | 48,293 | 7872.0% |
| 2024 | 32,184 | 7419.0% |
| 2023 | 45,234 | 7913.0% |
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Some data on this page may be outdated. We're working on refreshing it. For the latest official figures, check the
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between H-1B and L-1?
H-1B is Nonimmigrant while L-1 is Nonimmigrant. H-1B requires required, while L-1 requires required (same employer). Duration: H-1B lasts 3 yrs (extendable to 6) vs L-1 lasting 1–3 yrs.
Can I switch from H-1B to L-1?
Switching between visa types typically requires filing a new petition or change-of-status application with USCIS. Each situation is different. Consult an immigration attorney to evaluate your specific circumstances.
Which is better for a green card — H-1B or L-1?
EB-1C possible has different green card implications. Green card possible is a nonimmigrant path that may lead to a green card. Your best path depends on your qualifications, nationality, and employer situation.