top of page

Rising Blanket L Visa Denials: How to Avoid Common Pitfalls, the Impact of Cooling Periods, and Understanding L1A vs. L1B

  • visa code
  • Oct 8
  • 2 min read
AI Generated Image
AI Generated Image

In today’s restrictive H-1B environment, securing an L-1 visa, especially under a Blanket L petition has become a vital pathway for companies transferring key talent across borders. However, Blanket L denials are on the rise, mostly due to preventable mistakes in petition preparation and interview readiness.


Additionally, it must be noted that most organizations enforce a cooling period of six months or longer before applying for an individual L-1 petition after a Blanket L denial a delay that can significantly disrupt business timelines.


Understanding L1A and L1B Visas


The L-1 visa category under 8 CFR §214.2(l)(1)(ii) has two subtypes critical for intracompany transfers:


  • L-1A Visa is for executives and managers who are transferring to the U.S. to direct the company or a major function. It requires proof of managerial or executive capacity and is usually valid for up to seven years.


  • L-1B Visa is for employees with specialized knowledge essential to the company’s operations. It requires documentation of the specialized knowledge and typically allows a stay of up to five years.


Choosing the correct subtype and clearly demonstrating alignment with L-1A or L-1B criteria is essential to avoid denials.


🚫 Where Most Applicants Go Wrong


Many companies rely on generic templates for their Blanket L petitions overlooking the specific duties, leadership scope, or specialized knowledge that make each role unique.


At the interview stage, applicants often appear unfamiliar with their petition unable to confidently discuss the details of their job duties or their employer’s global structure.


This lack of preparation is one of the top reasons for refusals, even among highly qualified professionals.


✅ What You Should Do Instead


  • Collaborate early with your immigration counsel and company leadership.


  • Understand the L-1 criteria deeply ensure your job duties, reporting structure, and work history truly align with Blanket L requirements.


  • Review every document your company letter, support forms, and organizational charts before attending the interview.


  • Customize, substantiate, and prepare. Avoid cookie-cutter language. A well-drafted petition speaks directly to the regulatory standard; a generic one risks both petition and visa denial.


Remember, once denied under the Blanket route, you may have to pursue the slower and costlier Individual L-1 petition path.


💡 Why Expert Guidance Matters


With longer wait times, higher costs, and increased scrutiny, your Blanket L strategy deserves personalized legal insight. An experienced attorney can identify eligibility red flags early, tailor documentation to meet USCIS and consular expectations, and prepare you to present your case with confidence.


If you’re planning to file under the Blanket L program, our team can guide you every step of the way from eligibility review to interview preparation.


Contact for Strategic Blanket L Support


For companies or individuals planning to pursue a Blanket L petition, personalized legal advice can make the difference between approval and costly delays. Reach out to the Visa Code team for eligibility review, document and interview preparation.



Professional guidance is essential to maximize success in today’s challenging Blanket L environment.

 
 
bottom of page