L-2 Visa

L-2 Visa: A Gateway to Supporting Your Family in the USA

The L-2 Visa is a lifeline for families of L-1 Visa holders, allowing spouses and unmarried children under 21 to join them in the United States. Whether you’re a spouse seeking employment opportunities or a child continuing your education, the L-2 Visa provides essential benefits that help families thrive together in a new country. This guide explores the application process, eligibility requirements, and how Larhdel Law can help make your transition smooth and successful.

What is the L-2 Visa?

The L-2 Visa is a dependent visa category specifically for family members of L-1 Visa holders. It allows spouses and children to reside in the U.S. for the same duration as the primary L-1 Visa holder. Key features include:

Work Authorization for Spouses: Spouses can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work in the U.S.
Educational Opportunities: Children can enroll in schools or colleges in the U.S.
Flexibility for Renewals: The L-2 Visa can be renewed alongside the L-1 Visa.

Eligibility Criteria for the L-2 Visa

To qualify for the L-2 Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Relationship to the L-1 Visa Holder: You must be a spouse or unmarried child under 21 of an L-1 Visa holder.
Valid L-1 Visa for the Primary Applicant: The L-1 Visa holder must maintain their visa status for the L-2 Visa to remain valid.
Intent to Depart: As a dependent of a non-immigrant visa holder, you must demonstrate intent to leave the U.S. once the L-1 Visa expires.

Key Benefits of the L-2 Visa

Work Authorization for Spouses: Spouses can pursue employment opportunities across various industries.
Educational Access for Children: Dependents can attend public or private schools, gaining valuable educational experiences.
Travel Flexibility: L-2 Visa holders can travel in and out of the U.S. without restrictions during their visa’s validity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the L-2 Visa

Step 1: Gather Required Documentation
Prepare documents such as:

A valid passport for each applicant.
A copy of the L-1 Visa holder’s Form I-129 approval notice (Form I-797).
Proof of relationship to the L-1 Visa holder (marriage certificate, birth certificate).
Completed DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application forms for each applicant.

Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee
The L-2 Visa application fee is $205 per applicant. Ensure you retain the payment receipt for your visa interview.

Step 3: Complete the DS-160 Form
Each dependent must complete a separate DS-160 form online. Accuracy is essential to avoid delays.

Step 4: Schedule a Visa Interview
Book an appointment at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Depending on the applicant’s age, some interviews may be waived.

Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview
Bring all required documents and be prepared to discuss:

Your relationship to the L-1 Visa holder.
Plans for education, work, or family life in the U.S.
Intent to return home once the L-1 Visa expires.

Step 6: Await Your Decision
Most L-2 Visa applications are processed within a few weeks. Upon approval, you’ll receive a visa stamp in your passport.

Common Challenges with the L-2 Visa Application

Proving Relationship to the L-1 Holder
Accurate documentation, such as marriage or birth certificates, is essential to confirm your relationship.

Understanding Work Authorization
Spouses must apply for an EAD to legally work in the U.S., which involves a separate application process with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Maintaining Visa Status
The validity of the L-2 Visa depends on the L-1 Visa holder maintaining their status. Any changes to the primary visa holder’s status can impact dependents.

How Larhdel Law Can Help You Succeed

Navigating the L-2 Visa application process can be complex, especially when managing family needs. At Larhdel Law, we provide comprehensive support, including:

Document Preparation: Ensuring all forms and evidence are complete and accurate.
Work Authorization Assistance: Guiding spouses through the EAD application process.
Ongoing Visa Compliance: Helping families maintain their visa status and prepare for renewals or extensions.

Real-Life Success Stories

Case 1: Family Reunited in the U.S.
An L-1A Visa holder wanted to bring their spouse and two children to the U.S. We assisted with the L-2 Visa applications, ensuring all documentation was complete, resulting in a smooth approval process.
Case 2: Spouse Starts a New Career
An L-2 spouse needed guidance on obtaining work authorization. We streamlined the EAD application, enabling them to start their new job without delays.
Case 3: Supporting Educational Goals
A child of an L-1 Visa holder faced challenges enrolling in a U.S. high school due to visa documentation issues. Our team resolved the matter, allowing the student to continue their education seamlessly.

The L-2 Visa is your family’s bridge to a new life in the United States. Whether you’re seeking work authorization, educational opportunities, or simply reuniting with loved ones, let Larhdel Law guide you through the process. Call an experienced immigration attorney today at 310 943 6352 and take the first step toward securing your family’s future.