From Vietnam to the U.S. – How Truong Law Firm, PLLC Secured an L-1A Visa for a Business Leader
Ms. Linh, a Vietnamese tech entrepreneur, dreamed of expanding her startup to the U.S. With Truong Law Firm, PLLC’s expert guidance, she secured an L-1A visa and opened her new office in California in 2024.
A Vision for Global Expansion
In Ho Chi Minh City, Ms. Linh built a successful tech startup specializing in e-commerce solutions. After three years of steady growth, she saw an opportunity to expand to Silicon Valley, tapping into the world’s tech hub. However, the path to relocating as an executive required navigating the complex L-1A visa process, which is designed for intracompany transferees in managerial or executive roles.
“I was nervous about the paperwork and proving our new U.S. office would succeed,” Ms. Linh shared. “I needed a trusted partner to guide me through USCIS requirements.”
Challenges of the L-1A Visa
The L-1A visa allows executives to transfer to a U.S. office or establish a new one; however, it demands meticulous documentation. This includes a detailed business plan, proof of the U.S.-Vietnam company relationship, and evidence of the applicant’s managerial duties. In Ms. Linh’s case, opening a new office meant proving her startup could be operational in the U.S. within one year—a daunting task.
She faced several challenges, such as securing a U.S. office lease remotely, preparing financial projections, and responding to a Request for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS that questioned her business plan’s viability. Despite these obstacles, she remained determined. “I felt overwhelmed,” she admitted. “But Truong Law Firm made it manageable.”
Truong Law Firm, PLLC’s Expertise
Truong Law Firm, PLLC, with years of experience in U.S. immigration, stepped in to guide Ms. Linh. Their support proved invaluable. The legal team:
- Developed a robust business plan, detailing staffing and financial projections.
- Organized documents proving Ms. Linh’s executive role and her company’s U.S.-Vietnam corporate connection.
- Prepared her for the U.S. Consulate interview in Ho Chi Minh City, ensuring confidence and clarity.
When USCIS issued an RFE, Truong Law Firm, PLLC responded swiftly with additional evidence, securing approval in June 2024. “Their attention to detail and bilingual support in Vietnamese and English made all the difference,” Ms. Linh said.
A New Chapter in the U.S.
With her L-1A visa approved, Ms. Linh relocated to California and opened her startup’s U.S. office. Today, she leads a growing team, connecting Vietnamese innovation with global markets. “Truong Law Firm, PLLC didn’t just help with a visa—they helped me achieve my dream,” she said.
Start Your L-1A Visa Journey Today
Are you a Vietnamese executive or manager dreaming of expanding your business to the U.S.? Truong Law Firm offers expert L-1A visa services, from document preparation to consulate interviews. Whether you’re transferring to an existing office or opening a new one, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us now to schedule a consultation and turn your U.S. business vision into reality!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is an L-1A visa?
The L-1A visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows executives or managers of an international company to transfer to a U.S. office or establish a new branch in the U.S.
Who qualifies for the L-1A visa?
To qualify, the applicant must have worked for the foreign company for at least one continuous year in the past three years in a managerial or executive role and must be coming to the U.S. to perform similar duties.
Can I open a new U.S. office under the L-1A visa?
Yes. The L-1A visa allows executives to open a new office in the U.S., but additional documentation such as a business plan, office lease, and hiring plans are required.
How long is the L-1A visa valid?
For new offices, the L-1A visa is initially granted for 1 year. For existing offices, it can be granted for up to 3 years, with possible extensions up to 7 years total.
Can my family come with me on an L-1A visa?
Yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may accompany you on L-2 visas. Your spouse is also eligible to work in the U.S.
Can an L-1A visa lead to a green card?
Yes. L-1A visa holders may qualify for a green card under the EB-1C immigrant visa category, which allows for permanent residency without the need for PERM labor certification.
How can Truong Law Firm help me with the L-1A process?
Truong Law Firm offers complete L-1A support including eligibility assessment, business plan development, document preparation, RFE response, and consular interview coaching—especially for Vietnamese clients seeking bilingual guidance.