How to convert your L1 visa to green card? This 2025 guide covers everything—L1A and L1B green card timelines in India, EB1 options, and how long the process takes.
If you’re living in the U.S. on an L1 visa—whether L1A or L1B—you’ve probably thought: “Can I stay here permanently?” You can convert an L1 visa to a green card—and depending on your visa type and role, the process might be faster than you think. Whether you're a manager sent from your company’s overseas office or a specialized tech expert on a project, your journey toward a green card starts with understanding your options. The paths vary, but the good news is, both L1A and L1B holders are eligible.
If you’re here on an L1A visa, you’re already in a strong position. The EB-1C immigrant visa category is built for multinational managers and executives—and it’s tailor-made for qualified individuals in executive roles .This route skips the entire PERM labor certification step, saving months (if not years) of time. That’s one reason why many choose to go from L1A visa to green card through EB-1C.
Your U.S. and foreign employer must have a qualifying relationship. You must have been employed abroad in a managerial/executive role for at least 1 of the last 3 years. You must currently work in a similar role for the U.S. branch.
And timelines? If you're from a country like India, where backlogs are common, this can still be quicker. The L1A visa to green card timeline India can vary, but some see approvals in as little as 12–18 months if priority dates are current.
Need help navigating the EB-1C process? Beyond Border can connect you with attorneys who’ve done it all before.
Unlike L1A, the L1B visa to green card transition typically goes through EB-2 or EB-3. That means labor certification (aka the PERM process) is required. In plain terms: your employer must prove that no qualified U.S. worker can do your job.
The L1B visa green card waiting time India can be long due to high demand and per-country limits, especially in EB-2/EB-3 categories. It’s not uncommon for Indian nationals to wait several years for green card approval.
Still, it’s doable with the right plan and proactive steps. With support from Beyond Border, many L1B professionals have successfully made the leap.
If you’re on an L1A:
Without premium processing: ~12 to 24 months
With premium processing: ~8 to 16 months
From India? Expect some added wait due to country-specific priority date backlogs.
The L1B visa to green card timeline India can be quite long. But starting early—and working with the right legal support—can make a big difference.
Need help figuring out your timeline? Beyond Border can guide you step-by-step.
The path from L1 visa to green card isn’t just about visa type. Several other factors come into play:
Beyond Border connects you with experienced immigration attorneys who’ve helped hundreds make the jump from L1 to green card.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
L1A or L1B, your role and employment history matter. Start by determining your best-fit category: EB-1C or EB-2/3.
Step 2: Employer Files I-140
Your employer submits Form I-140, the immigrant petition. For L1B holders, this happens after labor certification.
Step 3: Wait for Your Priority Date
Once the I-140 is approved, you enter the priority date queue. You can check visa bulletin updates on USCIS.
Step 4: Adjust Status or Consular Processing
If you're in the U.S., you’ll likely file Form I-485 for Adjustment of Status when your date is current. If abroad, you’ll go through consular processing.
Step 5: Green Card Approved
That’s it! Your L1 journey now becomes a permanent U.S. residency story.
Throughout this path, your L1 visa green card priority date is key. That date determines when you can file the final paperwork. It’s wise to keep checking with USCIS or consult with attorneys via Beyond Border.
Q: Is the EB-1C category still current for Indian applicants in 2025?
A: It fluctuates. Check the monthly USCIS Visa Bulletin for the most recent updates.
Q: I’m on an L1 blanket visa—can I still apply?
A: Yes! Whether it's a regular L1 or a blanket, your employer can still sponsor you.
Q: How long does a green card take from L1 visa in 2025?
A: It depends—anywhere from 1 to 10+ years based on your visa type and nationality.
Q: Can I switch employers while waiting for my green card?
A: It’s tricky, especially for L1 visa holders. Switching can reset your green card process. Consult legal experts via Beyond Border first.
Q: Can my spouse work while I’m on an L1 visa?
A: Yes. L2 spouses are eligible for work authorization once approved by USCIS.
Going from an L1 visa to a green card is more than paperwork. If you’re committed to staying long-term, understanding the process early gives you the upper hand. Whether you’re an L1A exec ready for the EB-1C expressway, or an L1B techie navigating the PERM maze, you’ve got options. You just need clarity, planning, and expert help.
Beyond Border connects you with experienced immigration attorneys who’ve helped hundreds make the jump from L1 to green card.
