Traveling to the USA for a Business Meeting with Multiple Visas: B1 vs. L1

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Understanding B1 and L1 Visas

Both the B1 and L1 visas are valuable when traveling to the United States, but they serve different purposes. The B1 visa is designed for short-term business activities, while the L1 visa is for intra-company transfers, allowing employees to work for a new or existing U.S. parent, branch, or affiliate company.

Using the B1 Visa for Business Meetings

For the upcoming business meeting in the USA, it is advisable to use your B1 visa. This visa is perfect for short-term business activities, such as attending meetings, negotiations, and other job-related activities. However, it is not intended for any compensable employment by the L1 petitioner, as the B1 visa holder must not be performing any duties that would be covered by the L1 visa.

Transitioning to the L1 Visa for Employment

Since you plan to relocate to the USA using your L1 visa, you should shift to using that visa once you are officially in the country. Once the L1 visa holder is in the United States, they are permitted to work only for the designated parent, branch, or affiliate company under this visa. This means that for employment-related activities with your new employer, you should use your L1 visa for the duration of your stay.

Possible Exceptions: Concurrent Visa Usage

It is theoretically possible to have two visas concurrently, although this is not common practice. Each visa is typically stamped or punched into the passport, meaning you don't have a choice of which visa to use when crossing the border. The border control officer will scan your passport and review all of your visa information to determine the purpose of your visit. It is crucial to comply with the terms of each visa during your travels and activities in the U.S.

Practical Tips for Visa Usage

Once you enter the United States, you no longer need a visa for travel within the country. Keep your passport with the L1 visa with you at all times for identification purposes. However, it's important to note that you can still use your B1 visa for future short-term business trips.

As for the business meeting, if your company is willing to get you on the U.S. payroll now, it would be beneficial to enter on the L1 visa. This will enable you to obtain an SSN (Social Security Number), establish a bank account, start working legally, and establish your credit rating. Additionally, you can apply for a U.S. driving license, among other benefits. Therefore, it is better to start with the L1 visa for these purposes.

Final Considerations

While the information provided is general, it's crucial to consult with your company's immigration counsel for specific guidance. If you are only attending a business meeting or series of meetings within a short period of time (3-5 days), the B1 visa is typically appropriate. Specifically, if your presence is for the benefit of your overseas employer and you are not compensated by the U.S. entity, the B1 visa is the best choice.

Remember to always prepare for your visit by verifying the duration and terms of your visas, and be prepared to answer questions from border control. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and successful journey to the USA for your business meeting.