jammiie

Surely the L1-A is easier than L1-B purely due to the fact that a labor certificate is not required, therefore shortening the process considerably?

Hawkini

But is that relevant to making it easier to get a green card? No... I never said getting a L1-A wouldn't be preferable... just whatever L visa you get the EB petition will be judged solely on its own merit.

jammiie

I think we're splitting hairs here but really depends on your interpretation of "easier".

Does "easier to get a GC" only = "more likely"?

I would argue that not having to get a LC makes the whole thing much quicker, simpler, less variable and removes a lot of the subjectivity from the application process... which in my view would fall under the umbrella of "making it easier".

Hawkini

Ah - we *could* be splitting hairs but what else is the internet for. IMO you're missing the point - you think I'm misinterpreting the term "easier" in this context, but I think you're misunderstanding the context - which is the "ability to get a green card". Whether you go through hell to get your *non-immigrant visa* is irrelevant when filing a petition for a immigrant visa - they are both totally separate and getting a non-immigrant visa does not make getting an immigrant visa any easier.

Now if the context was "the entire process" or "getting a L visa" - totally agree - LC is a PITA. (Which I didn't have to do in 2011!!)

In summary, without splitting anymore hairs - get a L-1A for a much more pleasant life. But if you DO end up with a L-1B, don't worry. If you qualify for a EB-1 you'll be fine either way.

robtuck

I'm confused, the question was in relation to an L1A vs. L1B, wasn't it? The L1A is easier to obtain, provided you meet the requirements. Right now, if you were talking Green Cards, the EB1C isn't current so probably less easy for a bit, but the OP was wondering why the lawyers were suggesting trying the L1A route for a short term transfer - in fact they mention they only want to be over for 3 years.

radiotakeshi

having a related degree helps but it is not strictly necessary: I got my L1b visa approved this week and I have a degree that is totally unrelated with what I do. I've been working in my field (marketing) for over 13 years and (according with my company lawyers) that's equivalent of having a bachelor degree in marketing.

All you need to demonstrate is that you possess specialty knowledge as it relates to the role that needs to be transferred to the US and experience with the company proprietary technology, methodologies, processes, procedures.