Read the general business expansion overview
A Dunnottar company transfer may involve setup followed by continuing operations. Identify the actual organization’s U.S. business history and the correct L framework. New-office provisions differ for L-1A and L-1B, and an initial period of no more than one year does not guarantee a later extension.
Establish the relevant stage of business
Hypothetical example: a company has secured premises but has not confirmed its operating team. Describe actual activity and genuine plans. A lease, incorporation or launch announcement alone does not answer every business or role requirement.
Apply the role-specific requirements
New-office L-1A includes qualifying foreign managerial or executive employment and evidence the intended operation will support the qualifying role within one year of approval, with other requirements. New-office L-1B has distinct premises, qualifying-organization and financial-ability evidence. Do not convert the L-1A management-support test into a requirement that an L-1B specialist become a manager.
Record actual results during operations
Keep current business, duties and support evidence and identify differences from forecasts. Later review concerns the actual operation and applicable requirements. A completed setup task does not itself authorize a changed role or extend an immigration deadline.
What else is on your mind?
Does being a business owner or director qualify me for L-1A?What employment history should an L-1 transfer review cover?What makes a new-office L-1A case different?Why does an L-2 spouse’s admission record matter for work?Editorial source review: 2026-09-07. General preparation guidance, not an individual assessment.