USCIS Issues Policy Memorandum To Provide Guidance On L-1B "Specialized Knowledge" Standard

Introduction

On August 17, 2015, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released a Policy Memorandum to clarify the L-1B visa "specialized knowledge" standard ("Memorandum"). The Memorandum came into effect on August 31, 2015. It provides authoritative and consolidated guidance on the L-1B program and supersedes and rescinds certain prior L-1B guidance issued by USCIS. The Memorandum specifically offers guidance in adjudicating petitions for the intracompany transfer of employees to U.S. who possess "specialized knowledge." The guidelines provide clarification on how L-1B petitioners may demonstrate that an employee possesses "specialized knowledge."

Purpose of L-1 Visa