What is the difference between H-1B and L-1?

H-1B is for specialty occupations requiring a bachelor's degree in a specific field and is subject to an annual lottery. L-1 is for intracompany transferees who have worked abroad for a qualifying foreign affiliate for at least one year and is not lottery-based.

How long does PERM labor certification take?

PERM processing currently runs 12–18 months for an unaudited case. We plan the recruitment, wage determination, and filing carefully because errors can add a year or more.

Can I file my own green card without an employer sponsor?

Yes, in limited categories — EB-1A (extraordinary ability), EB-2 NIW (national interest waiver), and EB-5 (investment) allow self-petitioning. We will tell you honestly which category fits your profile.

What is premium processing and is it worth it?

USCIS premium processing guarantees adjudication within a set window (typically 15 business days) for an additional fee. For most employment cases it is worth it — speed and certainty matter.

Employment-Based Immigration

Visas and green cards for professionals, executives, and the companies that hire them.

From H-1B specialty workers and L-1 executives to PERM labor certifications and EB-2/EB-3 green cards, we represent both foreign professionals and U.S. employers across every stage of the employment immigration lifecycle.

Who this is for

You may qualify if…

You are a professional offered a U.S. role requiring a specialty degree (H-1B).
You are an executive, manager, or specialized employee transferring from a foreign affiliate (L-1).
You are a Canadian or Mexican professional in a NAFTA/USMCA occupation (TN).
You are a U.S. employer pursuing PERM labor certification for a key hire.
You are ready to convert temporary status into an employment-based green card (EB-2 / EB-3).

Our approach

What to expect, step by step

Strategy Session

Map the right visa, the right timing, and the right long-term path — not just the easiest filing.

Employer & Wage Coordination

Work directly with HR and counsel on prevailing wages, LCAs, and recruitment when required.

Petition Build

Draft, exhibit, and file the I-129, I-140, or PERM with the documentation reviewers expect.

Status & Green Card

Adjustment of status, consular processing, EAD, and AP coordinated end-to-end.

Frequently asked

Common questions

What is the difference between H-1B and L-1?: H-1B is for specialty occupations requiring a bachelor's degree in a specific field and is subject to an annual lottery. L-1 is for intracompany transferees who have worked abroad for a qualifying foreign affiliate for at least one year and is not lottery-based.
How long does PERM labor certification take?: PERM processing currently runs 12–18 months for an unaudited case. We plan the recruitment, wage determination, and filing carefully because errors can add a year or more.
Can I file my own green card without an employer sponsor?: Yes, in limited categories — EB-1A (extraordinary ability), EB-2 NIW (national interest waiver), and EB-5 (investment) allow self-petitioning. We will tell you honestly which category fits your profile.
What is premium processing and is it worth it?: USCIS premium processing guarantees adjudication within a set window (typically 15 business days) for an additional fee. For most employment cases it is worth it — speed and certainty matter.

Ready to discuss your case?

Schedule a confidential consultation with Jessica Weiss, Esq.

Schedule Consultation

Free downloads

Handouts from Jessica Weiss, Esq.

Startups & Business

U.S. Immigration Options for Startups & Tech Companies

A practical overview for founders, executives, and advisors expanding a startup or technology company into the United States — which visa fits each stage of growth.

E-2 treaty investor visa for founder-led expansion
L-1 intracompany transfers
H-1B and O-1 for key talent
Long-term green card planning

Download PDF 4 pages

Startups & Business

Understanding Business Immigration to the U.S.

Long-term business immigration strategies, including the qualifications for E-1 treaty trader and E-2 treaty investor visas and other options for business owners.

E-1 treaty trader qualifications
E-2 treaty investor qualifications
Long-term business immigration strategy

Download PDF 7 pages

Work Visas

H-1B for Startup Companies

Key legal and structural requirements for filing an H-1B through a startup — including when the H-1B worker is the company's founder.

The "one-person company" issue
Employer-employee relationship
Board structure and corporate governance best practices

Download PDF 3 pages

Students

F-1 Student to H-1B Strategy (Including Startups)

Strategic planning for F-1 students seeking H-1B status, including those working for or forming their own startup during OPT or STEM OPT.

The H-1B cap and cap-gap protection
Working for your own LLC during OPT/STEM OPT
Timing your transition

Download PDF 2 pages

See all immigration resources

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