can I still stay on L1 visa?

B

boriskey

New Member
Hi,

I am now in the USA on L1A visa working for CompanyA. CompanyA has a branch office in Ukraine and I was transferred here to US office 3 years ago.

CompanyA is going to be sold soon to CompanyB. CompanyB does not want to acquire Ukrainian office and it will be sold to third party company (CompanyC, partner of companyB).

Can the companyB hire me and keep me in the US on the same visa if they are not going to buy Ukrainian office? CompanyB is very large company with a lot of oversees offices. Or CompanyC needs to file for a new visa for me (attorney of CompanyC says they cannot hire me without filing new L1 visa)

I would appreciate your help…I read the FAQ and forum threads but could not find the answer...I hope to be hired by CompanyB and keep my visa, I would hate to go through getting a new visa again
 
Please understand that your situation and finding a way to maintain your employment with Company A after the acquisition should ultimately be analyzed and determined by an immigration attorney.

I take it that prior to coming to the U.S. you worked for Company A's Ukraine branch, and your L-1 qualification is based on the fact that you worked for the Ukraine branch until 3 years ago. If that is a case, most probably you will no longer be qualified for L-1 status after Company C acquires the Ukraine branch.

I believe that Company B has to get you a new visa in order for you to keep working for the same U.S. company you have worked for. But there are too many factors to be considered to determine your L-1 eligibility or qualifications for other visas.
 
thank you, snugjoint. Company attorney recommends says there is no way to stay on L1 visa with CompanyB and he recommends to file L1 visa with CompanyC, since I cannot wait for H1B. So I was hoping to hear second opinion
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top