L-1 Extensions, L-2 Spouses and Blanket Petitions

Immigration » L-1 visas » Extensions, L-2 and blanket L

Beyond the first approval, L-1 families face practical questions: how to extend, what the spouse can do, and whether a faster process is available.

L-1 extensions

L-1A workers can stay up to seven years in total. L-1B workers can stay up to five years.
Extensions are generally granted in two-year steps. A new-office petition starts at one year.
USCIS looks at whether the U.S. company is operating as promised, is paying wages and still needs the position.

L-2 spouses and children

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can receive L-2 status.
L-2 spouses are generally authorized to work in the United States, and they can apply for a work permit document to prove it.
L-2 children can attend school but cannot work.

Blanket L petitions

Large companies with a history of L-1 filings can qualify for a blanket petition. After approval, employees can apply for the visa directly at a consulate with a form from the employer, instead of filing individual petitions with USCIS. This can save time, but it is not appropriate for every employee, so we review each case.

Changes during the stay

A significant change in duties or a move to a different company can need an amended petition.
If the foreign company or the relationship changes, tell us so we can assess the effect.
The clock for the maximum stay stops when the person lives outside the United States for more than short visits, so keep travel records.

Related: new office L-1, L-1A vs L-1B.

L-1 visas guide

How our firm helps with L-1 visas

We test the qualifying relationship between the foreign and U.S. companies before filing.
We build the evidence of managerial or specialized-knowledge duties with clear job descriptions and organization charts.
We structure new-office petitions with a realistic plan for the first year.
We plan the move from L-1 to a green card through EB-1C or another category.

Situations we handle

Companies opening a U.S. branch
Specialized-knowledge employees
Extensions and amendments
L-1A managers seeking a green card

Why clients choose our firm

A Texas-licensed attorney serving immigration clients in all 50 states.
Russian-language service for clients and families.
Clear communication and updates through our client portal.
A full review of your history before anything is filed, so problems are caught early.
Organized filings and representation through interviews, requests for evidence and appeals.

Get help with l-1 visas

Every case has its own facts. Request a consultation and we will review your situation, options and timeline.

This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules, policies and fees change often. Last updated: November 2026.