If you’re planning to move to the United States on an L1 visa, one of your biggest concerns might be whether your family can come with you.
The good news is—yes, they can. The U.S. immigration system understands the importance of keeping families together, and there are specific rules that allow your spouse and children to accompany you during your stay.
In this blog, we’ll explain who qualifies as a family member under the L1 visa rules, what kind of visa they can apply for, and what rights they have once they arrive in the U.S.
Who Can Join You on an L1 Visa?
If you are an L1 visa holder, your immediate family members—your spouse and children under the age of 21—are allowed to apply for an L2 visa, which is designed especially for dependents of L1 visa holders.
Unfortunately, parents, siblings, or children over the age of 21 do not qualify for L2 dependent visas.
What Is an L2 Visa?
The L2 visa is a dependent visa that allows your eligible family members to live in the U.S. while you are working under your L1 visa. The L2 visa is typically valid for the same length of time as your L1 visa.
Here are the main features of the L2 visa:
- Your spouse and children can stay in the U.S for the duration of your L1 visa.
- Your spouse can apply for work authorization.
- Your children can attend school in the U.S.
- L2 visa holders can travel in and out of the U.S freely while the visa is valid.
Can Your Spouse Work in the U.S.?
Yes! This is one of the biggest advantages of the L2 visa.
Your spouse can apply for a work permit, officially known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Once the EAD is approved, your spouse can work full-time or part-time in any legal job, start a business, or become self-employed.
This added financial flexibility is a huge benefit for many L1 families.
Tip: The EAD application can be submitted after entering the U.S., and processing typically takes a few months. But once approved, it opens many opportunities for your spouse.
Can Your Children Study in the U.S.?
Yes, your dependent children on L2 visas can attend school—from elementary to high school, and even college or university.
They don’t need a separate student visa, which makes things easier and more affordable for families planning to stay in the U.S. long term.
However, once your children turn 21 years old, they will no longer qualify for L2 status and may need to switch to a different visa type (such as F1 for students).
What Is the Process to Bring Your Family?
Bringing your family to the U.S. on an L2 visa involves a few steps, but it is a fairly straightforward process. Here’s how it works:
- Gather Required Documents
- Passports for each dependent
- Marriage certificate for your spouse
- Birth certificates for children
- Your L1 visa approval notice and supporting documents
2. Apply for the L2 Visa - Your dependents will need to fill out the DS-160 form(online application for a U.S. visa).
- Schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Visa Interview
- During the interview, your family will be asked about your relationship, travel plans, and may be required to show proof (such as marriage or birth certificates).
- Visa Approval
- Once approved, your family will receive L2 visas stamped in their passports.
Can Your Family Travel Separately?
Yes, your spouse and children do not have to travel with you. They can join you later in the U.S. if they receive their L2 visas. This gives you flexibility, especially if you want to settle in first before bringing your family over.
What Happens If Your L1 Visa Expires?
Your family’s L2 visas are linked to your L1 visa, which means if your L1 status ends, their L2 status also ends. However, if your L1 visa is extended, your family can also extend their L2 visas accordingly.
What About Green Cards?
Many L1 visa holders apply for permanent residency (green card) through employment categories such as EB1C. If you do so, your spouse and children can also be included in the green card process as your dependents.
This could lead to a long-term path to U.S. residency for the whole family.
Get Help from EB2Hub
EB2Hub offers expert immigration support to professionals, business owners, and multinational companies. Whether you’re applying for an L1 visa or looking to bring your family with you, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact EB2Hub today for personalized help with your L1 and L2 visa applications—and make your move to the U.S. smooth and successful.