If your spouse or parent holds an L1 visa and you are their legally married spouse or unmarried child under age 21, you may be eligible for an L2 visa. This visa allows you to join your family in the United States and offers benefits like employment authorization and educational opportunities. Below, we explain the L2 visa process for families of Canadian L1 visa holders.
What Is the L2 Visa?
The L2 visa is a dependent visa granted to the immediate family members of L1 visa holders in the U.S. on an intracompany transfer basis. The L2 visa allows dependents to:
- Reside in the U.S. for the duration of the L1 visa holder’s stay.
- Work in the U.S. (for spouses).
- Attend school or pursue higher education (for spouses and children).
Eligibility for the L2 Visa
To qualify for an L2 visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Spouses
- Must be legally married to the L1 visa holder. Common-law partnerships or domestic relationships are not sufficient for eligibility.
- Dependent Children
- Must be under 21 years of age and unmarried.
Required Documentation for the L2 Visa Application
To ensure a smooth application process, gather the following critical documents:
- Valid Passports
- Each applicant must have a passport valid for the intended stay in the U.S.
- Marriage Certificate
- Spouses must provide a government-issued marriage certificate to demonstrate the marital relationship with the L1 visa holder.
- Birth Certificates
- Dependent children must present their birth certificates to verify their age and relationship with the L1 visa holder.
- Proof of L1 Visa Holder’s Status
- Copies of the L1 visa, U.S. admission stamp (I-94), and employment verification letter from the L1 visa holder’s employer are required.
L2 Visa Application Process
Canadians can bring the required documents to a U.S. port of entry or pre-flight inspection point. No appointment or additional forms are needed. The process can be completed with or without the L-1 spouse if you have proof of the L-1 spouse’s visa. L-2 status is granted immediately after eligibility is confirmed.
Living in the U.S. on an L2 Visa
Once you receive your L2 visa, you can enjoy several benefits as a dependent of an L1 visa holder:
- Employment Authorization
- Spouses on an L2 visa are automatically authorized to work in the U.S. No separate Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is required.
- Educational Opportunities
- Dependent children can enroll in U.S. schools, and spouses may pursue studies at any level. Children are not allowed to work.
- Travel Flexibility
- L2 visa holders can travel in and out of the U.S. as long as their primary and primary L1 visas remain valid.
Conclusion
The L2 visa is a valuable option for families of Canadian L1 visa holders. It offers opportunities for employment, education, and a chance to live together in the U.S. The process is straightforward if you understand the eligibility requirements, gather the necessary documents, and follow the application process carefully. To ensure a successful outcome, consult an immigration attorney for personalized assistance or guidance on your L2 visa application.
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You may have questions regarding L-2 visa requirements. We invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Please read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
