On March 24, 2015, United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) released an updated policy memorandum on the L-1B nonimmigrant visa classification for workers with specialized knowledge, effective August 31, 2015. This memorandum helps USCIS officers better understand how L-1B petitioners may show that an employee has a specialized knowledge.

The prior L-1B memorandum has been revoked and is now replaced with this updated memorandum that provides integrated and authoritative guidance to USCIS officers on L-1B status.

Purpose of the Memorandum

USCIS issued a policy memorandum online for 45 days to receive public review and feedback.

This policy memorandum provides guidance on the adjudication of the L-1B classification, which permits multinational companies to transfer employees possessing “specialized knowledge” to the United States.

Benefits of the Memorandum

• When this memorandum comes into effect, US companies in the global marketplace will be able to better understand and utilize the skills of talented employees.
• USCIS released this memorandum as a part of the administration’s effort to improve and modernize visa programs. This will help grow the US economy and create jobs.
• Depending on the circumstances and importance of evidence presented, officers make the judgment on a case-by-case assessment.

View the Policy Memorandum: L1B Adjudication Policy