L-2 Visas For Spouses And Children

L-1 visa holder’s dependents, including spouses and unmarried children under 21 years, are eligible to accompany the visa holder on an L-2 visa. The application process is fairly straightforward and, once an application is approved, the L-2 visa has a number of significant advantages.

Validity Period

The L-2 visa is a dependent visa, and therefore the validity period is the same as for the L-1 visa holder. You can remain in the United States as long as your spouse or parent has a valid visa. The initial validity period for an L-1 visa is three years, with the option to extend the period. For L-1A visa holders, the total period allowed is seven years. For an L-1B visa holder, the total period is five years.

Employment Authorization

An important advantage of an L-2 visa is that the visa holder is permitted to work in the United States. In order to do so, they need to obtain employment authorization documents (EAD). The appropriate documents should be filed with USCIS, and then after obtaining an EAD card, you must go to the Social Security office to get your social security number. With an EAD, you are not restricted to where you can work. The EAD is issued for two years and can be extended as long as the individual is in positive visa status. Consider contacting an immigration attorney to determine the most efficient way to move forward with your case and to ensure that all of your documents are filed correctly.

Dual Intent

Another advantage of an L-2 visa is that it is a dual intent visa. This means that you can come to the United States on a nonimmigrant visa with the intent to apply for a green card to become a permanent resident. You can apply for a green card without it affecting your nonimmigrant status. This is unlike other work visas that could be jeopardized if the holder applied for a green card.

Other L-2 Visa Advantages

Other advantages of the L-2 visa include:

• The ability to study or attend school in the United States
• The ability to transfer to another nonimmigrant status
• The ability to travel in and out of the United States on brief foreign trips

Contact An Immigration Attorney

If you are applying for an L-2 visa, you may want the help of an experienced immigration attorney. At Serving Immigrants, Inc., we have the experience and the knowledge to guide you through the process. Contact us online or call us at (305) 907-6151 to schedule a strategy session.