---
title: USA L1 Visa- Requirements, Process, Q&A, Processing Time - Kansas®
description: The L1 visa allows international companies to transfer key employees with specialized knowledge or executive roles to their U.S. offices. Know the eligibility requirements, process and more.
---

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# **USA L1 Visa: A Great Option For Employers **

# **(And Employees)**

In 2022, the L1 visa saw a total issuance of 72,958, reflecting its critical role in supporting international business expansion and facilitating the transfer of specialized knowledge across borders.

### Quick Enquiry

<https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/usa-l1-visa#sticky-scroll>

# USA L1 Visa: A Great Option For Employers(And Employees)

In 2022, the L1 visa saw a total issuance of 72,958, reflecting its critical role in supporting international business expansion and facilitating the transfer of specialized knowledge across borders.

[TALK TO US](https://www.kansaz.in/free-consultation)

<https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/usa-l1-visa#sticky-scroll>

![Temporoary](https://www.kansaz.in/hubfs/Temporoary.jpg)

**

#### Jobseeker Visa    **

[#### South Africa

5th Most Beautiful Country In The World 

](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/south-africa-jobseeker-visa) [#### Hong Kong QMAS

The West In The East 

](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/qmas-visa) [#### Germany

4th Largest Economy In The World 

](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/germany-jobseeker-visa) [#### USA L1

Live & Work In America 

](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/usa-l1-visa) [#### Australia Subclass 476

The Best Visa For The Young Gradutes (and Masters) 

](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/australia-subclass-476-visa)

- ###### Talk to Our Visa Experts
  
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**

### Key Highlights

- [What is the L1 Visa?](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/usa-l1-visa#what-is)
- [Benefits of L1 Visa](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/usa-l1-visa#benefits)
- [Types of L1 Visa](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/usa-l1-visa#types-of-l1)
- [Eligibility Criteria](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/usa-l1-visa#eligibility)
- [Documents Required](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/usa-l1-visa#required-documents)
- [How to Apply?](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/usa-l1-visa#how-to-apply)
- [Difference Between L1 and H1B Visa](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/usa-l1-visa#difference)

The L1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows companies operating in the United States and abroad to transfer employees from their foreign offices to their U.S. offices. It is primarily issued to executives, managers (L1A), or employees with specialized knowledge (L1B).

The L1 visa facilitates global business operations, allowing for temporary relocation to the U.S. for up to seven years (L1A) or five years (L1B). It also enables the spouse of the visa holder to work in the U.S.

## **What is the L1 Visa?**

**![What-is-a-United-States-L1-visa---1](https://www.kansaz.in/hs-fs/hubfs/What-is-a-United-States-L1-visa---1.jpg?width=892&name=What-is-a-United-States-L1-visa---1.jpg)**

An L-1 visa allows foreign employees of multinational companies to transfer to the U.S. if they've worked abroad for at least one continuous year in the past three years. The employee must be in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge role. To qualify, the company must be actively operating in the U.S. and another country. Simply hiring someone overseas doesn’t meet this requirement.

Further, the company must maintain international operations even after the transfer.

This visa comes in two types:

- L1A for **managers and executives**
- L1B for those with **specialized knowledge**

The L1 visa **cannot** be self-petitioned. Instead, the US company must file for the employee, who is considered the beneficiary.

The L1 visa **permits** extended stays and work in the US. It also extends immigration benefits to the visa holder's spouse and children.

[Know More](https://www.kansaz.in/free-consultation)

## **Benefits of L1 Visa**

- An L1 visa grants authorization to reside and work in the USA.
- The L1A visa is for managers and executives. It has an initial duration of **3 years**, possibly extending it up to **7 years**.
- The L1B visa caters to individuals with specialized knowledge. It initially grants a **3-year** validity and can be extended to **5 years**.
- The L1 visa permits dual intent, allowing temporary stay with potential future immigration. Unlike certain visas such as the **B1/B2 visitor visa**, which necessitate non-immigrant intent.
- The L1 visa needs more specific wage requirements. But, the employer must comply with state and federal minimum wage laws.
- Approval of an L1 visa extends immigration benefits to the applicant's family. It includes spouse and unmarried children under **21**. This grants them L2 status with employment and educational opportunities.
- Premium processing, available for the L1 visa, expedites petition processing within 15 days. This service requires an additional fee of **$2,500**.
- Unlike visas like the **H-1B**, the L1 visa is not subject to an annual issuance limit.

[USA L2 Visa: A Complete Guide For Dependents Of L1 ...](https://www.kansaz.in/blog/usa-l2-visa)

## **Types of L1 Visa**

There are two types of L-1 visas:

- [1. L1-A Visa](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/usa-l1-visa#tab1)
- [2. L1-B Visa](https://www.kansaz.in/temporary-visa/usa-l1-visa#tab2)

This allows a U.S. employer to transfer an executive or manager from a foreign office to a U.S. office. It also lets foreign companies send an executive or manager to the U.S. to establish a new office. The employer must file Form I-129 with a fee for the employee.

This allows a U.S. employer to transfer an employee with specialized knowledge from a foreign office to a U.S. office. It also lets foreign companies send a specialized knowledge employee to the U.S. to establish a new office. The employer must file Form I-129 with a fee for the employee.

[**Begin Process**](https://www.kansaz.in/free-consultation)

## **What visa classification do family members of L-1 visa holders receive?**

Family members of L-1 visa holders, including spouses and unmarried children under 21, can apply for L-2 visas. To obtain an L-2 visa, they must provide a copy of the L-1 visa holder's approval notice, along with their passports and proof of their relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates. If the family members are already in the U.S. under another valid visa, they may be able to change their status to L-2.

Immigration officers must verify that the familial relationship is valid before granting L-2 status.

## **Who Can Get an L-1B Visa?**

The L-1B visa is for **individuals with specialized knowledge** within a company. They possess unique expertise in the company's products or services that are difficult to transfer to others. This knowledge typically comes from years of experience within the company and is crucial for maintaining product or service quality.

Industries such as healthcare, engineering, law, education, and academia often require specialized knowledge professionals for L-1B visa transfers. These individuals are indispensable to company operations.

[Am I Eligible?](https://www.kansaz.in/free-consultation)

## **L-1A Visa Eligibility Criteria**

**

**

Employer Qualifications

**Qualifying Relationship:**

- The employer must have a relationship with a foreign company. The company can be parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate.

**Business Operations:**

- The employer must be doing business in the United States and at least one other country. This can be either directly or through a qualifying organization, throughout the employee's stay. The business must be active and ongoing, but international trade is not required.

**Definition of "Doing Business":**

- Regular, systematic, and continuous provision of goods and services by a qualifying organization.
- The mere presence of an agent or office in the U.S. and abroad does not qualify.

**

**

Employee Qualifications

1. **Work Experience:**

The employee must have worked for a qualifying organization abroad for at least **one continuous year**. This should be within the three years before entering the U.S.

1. **Position in the U.S.:**

The employee must be entering the U.S. to work in an executive or managerial capacity. This can be for the same employer or a qualifying organization.

**Definitions:**

- **Executive Capacity:**

The ability to make decisions with minimal oversight.

- **Managerial Capacity:**

The ability to supervise and control the work of professional employees, manage the organization or a significant part of it, or manage an essential function at a high level. This can be done without direct supervision.

## **Eligibility Criteria for L-1B Visa**

**

**

For the Employer

1. **Qualifying Relationship**:

Must have a qualifying relationship with a foreign company. The company should be a parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate.

1. **Business Operations**:

The company must be doing business in the US and at least one other country. This can be directly or through a qualifying organization for the duration of the employee’s stay. "**Doing business**" involves the regular provision of goods or services, not just having an office or agent.

**

**

For the Employee

1. **Work Experience**:

The applicant must have worked for a qualifying organization abroad for at least one continuous year. This period must be within three years before entering the US.

1. **Specialized Knowledge**:

The applicant must be entering the US to provide services that must specialized knowledge of the organisation’s products, services, research, techniques, or management. Must have advanced expertise in the organization’s processes and procedures.

[USA L1-A Visa to Work in the U.S. {Managers & Executives}](https://www.kansaz.in/blog/usa-l1-a-visa)

## **How long you can stay?**

| **Employee Type** | **Maximum Initial Stay** | **Maximum Extension** |
| --- | --- | --- |
| L-1A | 1 year | Up to 6 additional years (total of 7 years) |
| L-1B | 3 years | Up to 2 additional years (total of 5 years) |

[**Schedule Consultation**](https://www.kansaz.in/free-consultation)

## **Special Rules for New office L-1A managers and executives**

1. Qualifying relationship between the foreign company and the US company.
2. You need to show that enough space has been acquired for the new office.
3. You must have **one year of continuous full-time employment**. This should be as a manager or executive with a foreign company.
4. Your previous managerial or executive experience is required, unlike specialized knowledge roles.
5. The US company must commit to supporting a managerial or executive position within a year of L-1 petition approval.
6. USCIS recognizes that new office managers or executives. Also, they are likely to be involved in daily operations.
7. A one-year period is given to prove US company support for a managerial position.
8. Evidence of US company support can include a business plan, office details, and financial investment. It can also include the foreign company structure.
9. Initial status for a new office L-1A is **one year**. An extension is required before expiration, contingent on US company support for the managerial role.
10. The foreign company must continue operating. It must also maintain the qualifying relationship with the US company.

## **Special Rules for new office L-1B specialized knowledge workers**

1. Similar qualifying relationship and space requirements as L-1A.
2. Financial ability to pay for your services and start US operations is necessary.
3. Including evidence of ongoing foreign company operations is helpful.
4. Additionally, all other L-1 visa requirements apply.

[The US Embassy Approves Over 1,00000 H1-B and L1 Visas](https://www.kansaz.in/news/the-us-embassy-approves-over-100000-h1-b-and-l1-visas)

## **Documents Required for L1 Visa**

To apply for an L-1 visa, you'll need the following documents:

- A valid passport, valid for **at least 6 months** beyond the visa end date.
- A photograph that meets the US visa Photography Requirements.
- The **DS-160** confirmation page and code.
- Receipts confirming payment of all L1 visa fees.
- The L1 visa interview appointment letter.
- For individual petitions: 
    - **Form I-**129 and one copy.
    - **Form I-797**.
- For blanket petitions: 
    - **Form I-129S** and two copies.
    - Three copies of **Form I-797**.
- Letter from employer confirming your transfer and job description.
- Proof of **at least 1 year** of employment with the employer in the past 3 years.
- Letters from previous employers and contact information for supervisors.
- Contact information from 2 coworkers from current and previous job positions.
- Photographs of the inside and outside of your workplace.
- Your CV or resume.

## **How to Apply for an L1 Visa?**

**![How to Apply for an L1 Visa 04-01](https://www.kansaz.in/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20to%20Apply%20for%20an%20L1%20Visa%2004-01.png?width=15000&height=9000&name=How%20to%20Apply%20for%20an%20L1%20Visa%2004-01.png)**

- **Get a Transfer Offer:** Your employer must have a US branch, subsidiary, affiliate, or parent company. They must offer you a transfer in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge position. This is the first step before starting your application.
- **File Form I-129:** 
    - **Individual Petitions:** Your employer files Form I-129 to petition for your transfer to the US. Once approved by USCIS, you'll receive Form I-797.
    - **L1 Blanket Petitions:** Large companies meeting certain criteria can file Form I-129S. This allows them to transfer multiple employees under one approval. The approval allows employees to start their application using Form I-797.
- **File Form DS-160:** Complete Form DS-160 online. Provide details about your US intent, purpose, etc. After submission, keep the confirmation page and number.
- **Pay the L1 Visa Application Fee:** The application fee is $205. Additionally, there might be extra fees based on your country. Keep receipts for all fees paid.
- **Schedule Your L1 Visa Interview:** Schedule an interview at the US Embassy. You'll receive a visa interview appointment letter.
- **Submit Your L1 Visa Documents:** Gather all required documents. These documents can be passport, photograph, Form I-129 or I-129S, Form DS-160 confirmation, fee receipts, and appointment letter. Submit your application with these documents.

## **What is the L1 Visa Cost?**

| **Cost Item** | **Cost (USD)** | **Cost (INR)** |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USCIS Filing Fee (Form I-129) | $460 | ₹38,000 |
| USCIS Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee | $500 | ₹41,500 |
| Visa Application Fee for Consular Processing | $190 | ₹15,700 |
| Premium Processing Fee (Optional) | $1,440 | ₹1,19,000 |
| Public Law 114-113 Fee | $4,500 | ₹3,73,000 |

## **What is the L1 Visa Processing Time?**

The L1 visa processing time is relatively short. Individual petitions take slightly longer than blanket petitions, but the difference is minimal, it takes about **3 to 4 months** from application submission to visa processing.

With premium processing, which employers can opt for, approval or denial notification can be received within **1 to 3 weeks**.

[A Complete Guide on USA Visas in 2026](https://www.kansaz.in/top-destinations-usa)

### **Validity of L1 Visa**

Your employer determines the validity of your L1 visa when they file **Form I-129**, setting the contract duration. Upon visa approval, this period is specified on your **Form I-94** upon entry to the US.

As your authorized period nears expiration, your employer can request an extension. If approved, your stay in the US can be prolonged.

But, there's a maximum duration for L1 visa holders. For L1A, it's **7 years**, and for L1B, it's **5 years**. Once you reach this limit, you can explore other options. It often leads to permanent residence in the US.

[**Personalized Guidance**](https://www.kansaz.in/free-consultation)

## **L1 Visa Extension**

| **Visa Type** | **Maximum Extension Period** | **Maximum Total Stay** |
| --- | --- | --- |
| L1A | 2 years | 7 years |
| L1B | 2 years | 5 years |

 

 

## **L1 Visa Extension Processing time**

On average, the processing time is **around 6 months**, but it may extend to **8 months** or longer in certain situations. This timeline applies to both regular and blanket L-1 visa extensions. This is because they involve filing the same **I-129** petition.

## **L1 Visa to Green Card**

The L1 visa, like the H-1B visa, allows for dual intent. It means holders can apply for a Green Card. And in doing so they do not need to prove intent to return to their home country after their contract ends. They can apply for a Green Card using **Form I-140**. They can adjust their status through employment, family connections, or other means.

Some L1 visa holders, particularly those with specialized knowledge, may qualify as priority workers for the Green Card. They could potentially get it within a year. Therefore, stating immigration intent to the US as an L1 visa applicant won't affect their application negatively.

[How To Apply For A U.S. H4 Visa (Dependent Visa) in 2026?](https://www.kansaz.in/blog/facts-about-the-us-h4-visa)

## **L1 Visa to EB1C Green Card**

Transitioning from an L1 visa to an EB1C green card can be straightforward. This is especially true if you're currently working as a manager or executive in L1A status. Ensure that the US company has been in operation for at least 1 year. Also, verify that your role in the foreign company was managerial or executive.

But, if you're in L1B status as a specialized knowledge worker, the process may be more challenging. You must show that your duties in the foreign company meet the criteria for a manager or executive role. If not, obtaining EB1C approval could be difficult.

The application process involves two steps:

- Filing **Form I-140**, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker,
- **Form I-485**, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

These forms can often be filed concurrently.

Apart from the EB1C option, there are alternative routes to obtain a green card from an L1 visa:

**

**

1. Employer Sponsorship Through PERM Labor Certification

Your US employer can sponsor you for a green card through job offers in the EB-2 or EB-3 visa categories. It requires an approved labour certification. This involves specific job recruitment activities and proving the ability to pay the prevailing wage.

**

**

2. EB-5 Visa

This is an investment-based immigrant visa. It requires investing $1 million in a US business that creates 10 full-time jobs for US workers. In economically depressed areas, the investment requirement may be reduced to $500,000.

**

**

3. EB1A Visa

This immigrant visa classification is for individuals with extraordinary abilities in their field. To qualify, you must demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim. You must also prove that your continued work in the United States benefits the country.

[Free Consultation](https://www.kansaz.in/free-consultation)

## **Difference Between L1 and H1B Visa**

| **Aspect** | **L1 Visa** | **H-1B Visa** |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Objective | Used for intra-company transfers or establishing a US branch | Employed by US companies for specialized occupations or for graduate education |
| Sponsor | Foreign company sponsoring the applicant | US-based company sponsoring the applicant |
| Employer Eligibility | Multinational company with US branch or new US branch | US-based organization, including small companies |
| Educational Requirements | No strict educational requirement | Bachelor's degree or higher required |
| Duration of Stay | Up to 7 years for L1A, up to 5 years for L1B | Up to 6 years |
| Annual Visa Cap | No cap | Cap varies annually (e.g., 65,000 visas for employees, 20,000 visas for students) |
| Prevailing Wage | No requirement | Employer must pay prevailing wage |
| Department of Labor Certification | Not required | Required |
| Transfer | Not permitted, requires new petition | Permitted, requires H1B visa transfer petition |
| Approval from DOL | Not required | Required |
| Blanket Petition | Available | Not available |

[**Immediate help**](https://www.kansaz.in/free-consultation)

## **Purpose of L1 Visa**

The L1 visa helps international businesses expand and operate in the U.S. by allowing companies to transfer key employees who have specialized knowledge or leadership skills. Its main goals include:

1. **Boosting International Business Presence**: The L1 visa allows companies to move essential personnel to the U.S., aiding in the setup or expansion of their operations.
2. **Transferring Specialized Knowledge**: It helps transfer employees with crucial company-specific expertise, ensuring consistent business practices across borders.
3. **Supporting U.S. Operations**: The visa assists both new and existing U.S. offices by providing necessary leadership and specialized knowledge.
4. **Enabling Global Mobility**: It facilitates the movement of staff worldwide, promoting international teamwork and effective management of global projects.

## **Permanent Residency Strategies for L1 Visa Employees**

Unlike the H1B visa, the L1 visa does not allow for extensions beyond its maximum stay limit. Therefore, employers must plan the permanent residency process for L1 employees carefully. Failure to initiate the necessary steps in time could lead to the employee having to leave the U.S. once their L1 status expires.

- **L1A Visa:** For most L1A employees (executives/managers), the green card process typically involves three steps: PERM Labor Certification, I-140 Petition, and I-485 Application. However, certain L1A employees in managerial or executive roles may skip the PERM process and directly file an I-140 Petition, potentially speeding up their residency application and avoiding delays.
- **L1B Visa:** L1B employees, who are limited to a five-year stay, may face more challenges. Many L1B employees do not hold degrees, placing them in backlogged green card categories. Even if the process begins immediately, completing all steps before the visa's expiration may be difficult. Employers may consider changing the employee’s status to L1A (for a longer 7-year stay) or to H1B, which offers a possible six-year stay and the potential for extensions if green card steps have progressed.

## **What is Dual intent?**

The L1 visa is considered a "dual intent" visa. This means that employees on an L1 visa can apply for permanent residency (a green card) in the U.S. while still holding their nonimmigrant L1 status. It allows individuals to work in the U.S. temporarily while also pursuing a path to becoming a permanent resident.

## **L1 Visa Dependents**

L1 visa holders can bring their family with them to the US. This includes their spouse and unmarried children under 21. These family members need an L2 visa to enter the US. With an L2 visa, they can do things like:

- Get a driver's license
- Open a bank account
- Attend university,
- Work by getting a special work permit called an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

## **Why Choose Kansas Overseas Careers?**

Kansas Overseas Careers isn't just another immigration consultant in India. We're a proven leader in the industry, backed by impressive statistics: serving over 20,000 customers with more than 3,000 active cases.

Check out our comprehensive visa services:

- **Visit Visa**: Whether for leisure or business, travel to any corner of the globe hassle-free with Kansas.
- **Study Visa**: Unlock the doors to globally-recognized universities and pursue your academic dreams.
- **Work Visa**: Settle and thrive in the world's most desirable cities with our expert guidance.
- **Immigration**: Trust us as your one-stop destination for all your visa and immigration needs.
- **Permanent Residence**: Attain the status of a Permanent Resident and enjoy exclusive benefits.

**Experience our tailored services designed to cater to your unique needs:**

- **Profile Evaluation**: Our experts match your profile history with visa eligibility requirements. It ensures you apply for the right visas.
-  **Resume Writing**: We will craft a standout resume. It will be tailored to meet the expectations of immigration authorities.
- **Document Procurement**: Let us assist you in gathering the necessary documents for visa application.
- **Professional Guidance**: From interview training to language courses and application assistance, we provide comprehensive support at every step.
- **Dedicated Case Officer**: Enjoy personalized assistance. We offer a single point of contact throughout your visa journey.
- **Post-Landing Services**: Our support extends beyond visa approval. It helps you settle smoothly into your new country.

At Kansas Overseas Careers, we offer a complete solution for all your visa needs, from initial evaluation to post-visa support.

[**Consult Now**](https://www.kansaz.in/free-consultation)

## **Other FAQs**

**

**

What is an L1 visa?

The L1 visa is a non-immigrant visa. It allows companies to transfer employees from a foreign office to a US office.

**

**

What is L-1A visa?

The L-1A visa is a specific category of the L1 visa for executives or managers being transferred to a US office.

**

**

What is an L1 blanket visa?

The L1 blanket visa is a streamlined process for multinational companies to transfer multiple employees to US offices.

**

**

What is L1 and L2 visa?

The L1 visa is for intracompany transferees. While the L2 visa is for dependents (spouse and unmarried children under 21) of L1 visa holders.

**

**

Who is eligible for L1 visa?

Eligible individuals for an L1 visa include: Employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to work in US offices in managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge roles.

**

**

How long does it take to get an L1 visa?

The processing time for an L1 visa varies but typically takes around 6 to 8 weeks. It depends on various factors such as USCIS processing times and the completeness of the application.

**

**

What is RFE in an L1 visa?

RFE stands for Request for Evidence, which is a notice issued by USCIS to request additional information or documentation to complete the processing of an L1 visa application.

**

**

What is L1 visa requirements?

L1 visa requirements include having employment with a multinational company, being in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge role, and meeting specific criteria for the L1 visa category.

**

**

What documents are required for an L1 visa?

- Required documents for an L1 visa include:
- Form I-129, an employment verification letter
- Detailed job description
- Evidence of a qualifying relationship between foreign and US entities,
- Proof of the applicant's qualifications.

**

**

What type of visa is L1?

The L1 visa is a non-immigrant visa category for intracompany transferees. It allows multinational company employees to work in the US temporarily.

**

**

What happens if an L1 visa is rejected?

On rejection of L1 Visa, the applicant will receive a notice. It explains the reasons for the denial. They may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply with additional supporting documentation.

**

**

What is H1 and L1 visa?

H1 and L1 visas are both non-immigrant visa categories used by foreign workers to work in the US. H1 visas are for speciality occupation workers, while L1 visas are for intracompany transferees.

**

**

What is the difference between L1 and L1A visa?

The L1 visa is the overall category. The L1A visa is a specific subcategory within the L1 visa category for executives or managers being transferred to US offices.

**

**

What is an L1B visa?

The L1B visa is a specific subcategory of the L1 visa for employees with specialized knowledge being transferred to US offices.

**

**

What happens when an L1 visa expires?

When an L1 visa expires, the visa holder must either leave the US or apply for an extension or change of status to continue legally residing in the country.

**

**

What is the L1 visa process?

- The L1 visa process involves various steps including:
- Submitting the petition (Form I-129)
- Providing supporting documents
-  Attending an interview,
- Awaiting USCIS approval.

**

**

What happens if my L1 visa extension is denied?

If an L1 visa extension is denied, the visa holder may have to leave the US. They can also explore other legal options like reapplying with additional documentation or appealing the decision.

**

**

Can an L1 visa holder change status once in the US?

Yes, an L1 visa holder can change their status while in the US by applying for a change of status with USCIS.

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