L2 Visa, Explained

The L2 visa is for the family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21) of L1 visa holders. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the L2 visa, including L2 visa requirements, the application process, and how long this visa is valid for.

Chelsea Spinos, Writer

By:

Chelsea Spinos

Chelsea Spinos is a contributing writer for Manifest Law. She covers all topics related to U.S. visas and green cards. She is passionate about helping people navigate their immigration journey with clarity and confidence.

Reviewer:

Simon Craven, Esq.

Simon Craven is an immigration attorney with 12+ years of experience working on thousands of successful immigration cases. Simon is passionate about US immigration and helping people.

7 min read • Sep 8, 2024

Family with children
Family with children
Family with children

Key takeaways

The L2 visa allows spouses and unmarried children under 21 of L1 visa holders to live in the U.S., keeping families together during work assignments.

L2 visa holders have significant benefits, including the ability for spouses to work, access to education, and the ability to obtain a driver's license.

L2 visa validity is tied to the L1 visa holder's status, typically lasting as long as the L1 visa is active and can be extended if the L1 visa is renewed.

If you’re the spouse or child of someone who’s been granted an L1 visa to work in the U.S., the L2 visa can be a visa option allowing you to join them. The L2 visa is designed to keep families united when one member relocates to the United States for work. With an L2 visa, you can move to the U.S. and enjoy many of the same benefits as your L1 visa-holding family member, including the opportunity to work and study.


In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the L2 visa. We’ll explain eligibility requirements, the application process, and how long the visa is valid. 


If your spouse or parent has recently been offered a transfer to a U.S. branch of their company and you’re excited to join them, keep reading to discover how the L2 visa can help make that happen.

Family holding american flags
Family holding american flags
Family holding american flags

What is an L2 visa?

What is an L2 visa?

An L2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows family members—spouses and unmarried children under 21 of L1 visa holders to come and live in the United States. If your spouse or parent has been transferred to the U.S. by their company on an L1 visa, the L2 visa lets you join them and stay together as a family.

Puzzle with benefits
Puzzle with benefits
Puzzle with benefits

Benefits of the L2 Visa

Benefits of the L2 Visa

One of the major benefits of the L2 visa is that it allows the spouse of the L1 visa holder to work in the U.S. L2 visa holders can also attend school, open bank accounts, and obtain a driver's license, making it easier for families to settle into their new environment.


Here are all the benefits of the L2 visa:

One of the major benefits of the L2 visa is that it allows the spouse of the L1 visa holder to work in the U.S. L2 visa holders can also attend school, open bank accounts, and obtain a driver's license, making it easier for families to settle into their new environment.


Here are all the benefits of the L2 visa:

Stay with Your Family: The L2 visa allows spouses and children under 21 to live in the U.S. with their L1 visa holder family member, keeping the family together during the work assignment.

Work Authorization for Spouses: L2 spouses have the ability to work in the U.S. You can work for any employer, start your own business, or pursue freelance opportunities.

Access to Education: L2 visa holders can attend school, from elementary through college or other higher education programs, making it a great option for kids and spouses looking to continue their studies.

Driver’s License Eligibility: You can apply for a U.S. driver’s license, making it easier to travel, work, and participate in everyday activities.

Open Bank Accounts: You can open bank accounts in the U.S., making it simpler to manage your finances, save money, or establish credit.

Social Security Number (SSN): Spouses can get a Social Security Number, which is useful for work, banking, and other official purposes.

Freedom to Travel: The L2 visa allows you to travel in and out of the U.S. without needing to reapply each time, as long as your visa is valid.

Flexible Duration: The L2 visa remains valid as long as the L1 visa holder’s status is active. It can be renewed or extended, giving you the flexibility to stay as long as needed.

Access to U.S. Healthcare and Benefits: As an L2 visa holder, you can access healthcare services, apply for insurance, and participate in other benefits available to U.S. residents, helping you and your family settle comfortably.

Smiling Indian construction worker
Smiling Indian construction worker
Smiling Indian construction worker

Can you work in the US with an L-2 visa?

Can you work in the US with an L-2 visa?

If you’re looking to apply for the L2 visa, you might be excited about the opportunity to live in the U.S. and eager to know if you can also work while you’re here. The answer is yes, you can work on an L2 visa. 


In 2022, USCIS and CBP began issuing Forms I-94 with the code for L-2 spouses: L-2S. An unexpired Form I-94 reflecting this code is acceptable as evidence of employment authorization for spouses of L-1 visa holders.

If you’re looking to apply for the L2 visa, you might be excited about the opportunity to live in the U.S. and eager to know if you can also work while you’re here. The answer is yes, you can work on an L2 visa. 


In 2022, USCIS and CBP began issuing Forms I-94 with the code for L-2 spouses: L-2S. An unexpired Form I-94 reflecting this code is acceptable as evidence of employment authorization for spouses of L-1 visa holders.

Requirements sign
Requirements sign
Requirements sign

L2 Visa Requirements

L2 Visa Requirements

The L2 visa is designed to ensure that only immediate family members of L1 visa holders can benefit from its privileges. Specifically, it is available only to spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21. To be eligible, the primary visa holder must have a valid L1 visa, and only their legal dependents can qualify for the L-2 visa.


Take a look at the table below for the L2 visa requirements:

The L2 visa is designed to ensure that only immediate family members of L1 visa holders can benefit from its privileges. Specifically, it is available only to spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21. To be eligible, the primary visa holder must have a valid L1 visa, and only their legal dependents can qualify for the L-2 visa.


Take a look at the table below for the L2 visa requirements:

Required Documents

Eligibility Criteria

Relationship to L1 visa holder

Primary visa holder status

Age requirement

Legal marriage requirement

Immigration status

Intent to live with L1 visa holder

Eligible for L2 Visa

Spouses (legally married) and unmarried children under 21

Must be a dependent of a valid L1 visa holder

Unmarried children under 21

Legally married to the L1 visa holder

Must be outside the U.S. or legally present at the time of application

Must intend to live with the L1 visa holder in the U.S.

Not Eligible to L2 Visa

Fiancés, domestic partners, siblings, parents, or extended family members (e.g., aunts, uncles, cousins)

Dependents of any visa holders other than L1 (e.g., H1B, B1/B2 visa holders)

Children over 21 or married children

Common-law partners, domestic partnerships, or fiancés are not eligible unless legally married

Those unlawfully present in the U.S. at the time of application or those with unresolved immigration issues

Those not planning to reside with the L1 visa holder (e.g., living separately in the U.S. or another country)

Not sure if you meet the L2 visa requirements? Take our free visa quiz, or book a free consultation with Manifest Law. Our team will assess your situation and provide guidance on the best visa options for you.

Not sure if you meet the L2 visa requirements? Take our free visa quiz, or book a free consultation with Manifest Law. Our team will assess your situation and provide guidance on the best visa options for you.

checklist with magnifying glass
checklist with magnifying glass
checklist with magnifying glass

Required Documents for the L2 Visa

Required Documents for the L2 Visa

Applying for an L2 visa involves gathering several important documents to prove your eligibility and support your application. These documents are necessary to show that you are a spouse or child of an L1 visa holder and that you meet all the L2 visa requirements set by USCIS. 


Here’s a detailed breakdown of the required documents you’ll need to prepare:

Applying for an L2 visa involves gathering several important documents to prove your eligibility and support your application. These documents are necessary to show that you are a spouse or child of an L1 visa holder and that you meet all the L2 visa requirements set by USCIS. 


Here’s a detailed breakdown of the required documents you’ll need to prepare:

Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S. If you are applying for your child, make sure their passport also meets this requirement.

Form DS-160 Confirmation: Complete the online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) and print the confirmation page with the barcode. You will need this for your visa interview.

Visa Fee Payment Receipt: Proof of payment of the non-refundable visa application fee. Keep this receipt as it will be required during your interview.

Passport-Style Photo: Provide a recent, color passport-sized photo that meets U.S. visa photo guidelines.

Proof of Relationship to L1 Visa Holder:

  • For Spouses: Original and copy of the marriage certificate showing that you are legally married to the L1 visa holder.

  • For Children: Birth certificate or adoption papers proving you are the child of the L1 visa holder and are under 21 years of age.

Copy of the L-1 Visa Holder’s Documents: Include copies of the L1 visa holder’s valid passport, visa, and I-797 approval notice or I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) to prove their legal status in the U.S.

Employment Proof of L-1 Holder: A letter from the L-1 visa holder’s employer verifying their job position, salary, and the duration of their stay in the U.S. This helps demonstrate that the primary visa holder is actively employed.

Proof of Intent to Return Home: Although not always required, it’s helpful to bring evidence of ties to your home country, such as property ownership, a job offer, or family ties that indicate you plan to return after the visa period ends.

Visa Interview Appointment Confirmation: Print the confirmation of your visa interview appointment, which you will need to show at the embassy or consulate.

Medical Insurance and Exams (if required): Some U.S. consulates may request proof of medical insurance or a medical examination, especially for children, so check the specific requirements of your embassy or consulate.

Additional Documents: Bring any other documents that may support your application, such as school enrollment letters for children, proof of previous U.S. visas, or any other relevant paperwork that shows your ties and intentions.

These documents are key to your L2 visa application and show that you’re eligible to join your L1 visa holder family member in the U.S. 


If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the paperwork or unsure about your L2 visa application, getting help from an immigration expert can make a big difference. For a hassle-free experience and expert advice on your L2 visa, book a free consultation with Manifest Law. We're here to guide you every step of the way.

These documents are key to your L2 visa application and show that you’re eligible to join your L1 visa holder family member in the U.S. 


If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the paperwork or unsure about your L2 visa application, getting help from an immigration expert can make a big difference. For a hassle-free experience and expert advice on your L2 visa, book a free consultation with Manifest Law. We're here to guide you every step of the way.

How to apply
How to apply
How to apply

How to Apply for an L2 Visa

How to Apply for an L2 Visa

Before applying for the L2 visa, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. Remember, you must be a spouse or unmarried child under 21 of an L1 visa holder in order to qualify. If you’re not sure of your eligibility, book a free consultation with Manifest Law for expert guidance.

Before applying for the L2 visa, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. Remember, you must be a spouse or unmarried child under 21 of an L1 visa holder in order to qualify. If you’re not sure of your eligibility, book a free consultation with Manifest Law for expert guidance.

Step 1: Gather all required documents

Collect the following documents for your L2 visa application:


  • Valid Passport

  • Form DS-160, with confirmation page 

  • Visa Fee Payment Receipt

  • Passport-Style Photo

  • Proof of Relationship: For spouses, provide a marriage certificate. For children, provide a birth certificate or adoption papers.

  • L1 Visa Holder’s Documents: Include copies of the L-1 visa holder’s passport, visa, and I-797 approval notice or I-94.

  • Employment Proof of L1 Holder: A letter from their employer verifying their job, salary, and stay duration.

  • Financial Evidence: Documents showing the L1 visa holder can support you financially, like bank statements or pay stubs.

  • Proof of Intent to Return Home: Optional but helpful, this evidence shows ties to your home country, like property or a job offer.

Collect the following documents for your L2 visa application:


  • Valid Passport

  • Form DS-160, with confirmation page 

  • Visa Fee Payment Receipt

  • Passport-Style Photo

  • Proof of Relationship: For spouses, provide a marriage certificate. For children, provide a birth certificate or adoption papers.

  • L1 Visa Holder’s Documents: Include copies of the L-1 visa holder’s passport, visa, and I-797 approval notice or I-94.

  • Employment Proof of L1 Holder: A letter from their employer verifying their job, salary, and stay duration.

  • Financial Evidence: Documents showing the L1 visa holder can support you financially, like bank statements or pay stubs.

  • Proof of Intent to Return Home: Optional but helpful, this evidence shows ties to your home country, like property or a job offer.

Step 2: Complete Form DS-160

In order to apply for the L2 visa, you’ll need to complete Form DS-160 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application) online. After submission, print the confirmation page, which you’ll need for your visa interview.

In order to apply for the L2 visa, you’ll need to complete Form DS-160 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application) online. After submission, print the confirmation page, which you’ll need for your visa interview.

Step 3: Pay the application fee

While there is no fee associated with Form DS-160, you will still need to pay a processing fee for the L2 visa application, which is $185. Some other fees may apply depending on where you’re from.


After submitting payment, make sure to keep the receipt.

While there is no fee associated with Form DS-160, you will still need to pay a processing fee for the L2 visa application, which is $185. Some other fees may apply depending on where you’re from.


After submitting payment, make sure to keep the receipt.

Step 4: Schedule a visa interview

Book an appointment for your L2 visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. You can do this online through the embassy’s website.

Book an appointment for your L2 visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. You can do this online through the embassy’s website.

Step 5: Attend your visa interview

The next step is to attend the U.S. embassy or consulate for your interview! Be prepared to answer questions about your relationship with the L1 visa holder, your intentions in the U.S., and your plans for returning home. Bring all your documents with you.

After your interview, your application will be processed. Processing times can vary, so check the embassy or consulate’s website for estimated times.

The next step is to attend the U.S. embassy or consulate for your interview! Be prepared to answer questions about your relationship with the L1 visa holder, your intentions in the U.S., and your plans for returning home. Bring all your documents with you.

After your interview, your application will be processed. Processing times can vary, so check the embassy or consulate’s website for estimated times.

Step 6: Receive your visa

If your application is approved, you’ll receive your L2 visa in your passport. Once you have your visa, you can make your travel arrangements to join your L1 visa holder in the U.S.

Overall, you can expect the L2 visa process to take between 6-10 weeks, depending on appointment availability. This includes the time needed to gather documents, complete forms, schedule and attend the interview, and wait for processing.

If your application is approved, you’ll receive your L2 visa in your passport. Once you have your visa, you can make your travel arrangements to join your L1 visa holder in the U.S.

Overall, you can expect the L2 visa process to take between 6-10 weeks, depending on appointment availability. This includes the time needed to gather documents, complete forms, schedule and attend the interview, and wait for processing.

Smiling african-american father and daughter
Smiling african-american father and daughter
Smiling african-american father and daughter

How long is the L2 visa valid?

How long is the L2 visa valid?

The L2 visa's validity depends largely on the status of the L1 visa holder. Typically, the L2 visa is issued for the same duration as the L1 visa, so it’s valid as long as the L1 visa holder’s status is active. If their L1 visa is extended or renewed, your L2 visa can also be extended.


For example, if the L1 visa holder is in the U.S. on a one-year assignment and their visa is renewed for an additional year, your L2 visa will usually be extended for the same period. The L2 visa will expire when the L1 visa holder’s employment ends or if they leave the U.S. If the L-1 visa holder’s status changes, such as switching to a different visa category or adjusting to permanent residency, your L2 visa status will also be affected.


If you need to extend your stay, you’ll need to apply for an extension of your L2 visa before it expires, typically in alignment with the L1 visa holder’s extension application.

The L2 visa's validity depends largely on the status of the L1 visa holder. Typically, the L2 visa is issued for the same duration as the L1 visa, so it’s valid as long as the L1 visa holder’s status is active. If their L1 visa is extended or renewed, your L2 visa can also be extended.


For example, if the L1 visa holder is in the U.S. on a one-year assignment and their visa is renewed for an additional year, your L2 visa will usually be extended for the same period. The L2 visa will expire when the L1 visa holder’s employment ends or if they leave the U.S. If the L-1 visa holder’s status changes, such as switching to a different visa category or adjusting to permanent residency, your L2 visa status will also be affected.


If you need to extend your stay, you’ll need to apply for an extension of your L2 visa before it expires, typically in alignment with the L1 visa holder’s extension application.

checkboxes with targets on building blocks
checkboxes with targets on building blocks
checkboxes with targets on building blocks

L2 Visa Processing Time

L2 Visa Processing Time

Typically, the L2 visa processing time spans from 6 to 10 weeks. This timeframe covers everything from gathering and preparing your documents, filling out forms, scheduling and attending your visa interview, to waiting for your visa to be processed and issued. 


After your interview, the processing and approval of your visa usually takes between 1 to 4 weeks. However, this can vary based on the workload at your specific embassy or consulate and any extra administrative steps that may be required.

Typically, the L2 visa processing time spans from 6 to 10 weeks. This timeframe covers everything from gathering and preparing your documents, filling out forms, scheduling and attending your visa interview, to waiting for your visa to be processed and issued. 


After your interview, the processing and approval of your visa usually takes between 1 to 4 weeks. However, this can vary based on the workload at your specific embassy or consulate and any extra administrative steps that may be required.

L2 Visa Processing Fees

While Form DS-160 itself doesn’t have a fee, applying for an L-2 visa does involve certain costs. 


The main fee you'll need to pay is the L-2 visa application fee, which is currently $185


This non-refundable fee covers the processing of your visa application. You’ll typically pay this fee online or at a designated bank, and you’ll need to keep the receipt to present at your visa interview.


In addition to the application fee, you might have other expenses related to your visa application, including:


  • Passport Costs: If you need to renew or expedite your passport, there will be associated fees.

  • Document Translation: Any documents that need to be translated into English will require certified translation services, which come with their own costs.

  • Notarization: Some documents may need to be notarized, which can also involve additional fees.

While Form DS-160 itself doesn’t have a fee, applying for an L-2 visa does involve certain costs. 


The main fee you'll need to pay is the L-2 visa application fee, which is currently $185


This non-refundable fee covers the processing of your visa application. You’ll typically pay this fee online or at a designated bank, and you’ll need to keep the receipt to present at your visa interview.


In addition to the application fee, you might have other expenses related to your visa application, including:


  • Passport Costs: If you need to renew or expedite your passport, there will be associated fees.

  • Document Translation: Any documents that need to be translated into English will require certified translation services, which come with their own costs.

  • Notarization: Some documents may need to be notarized, which can also involve additional fees.

Manifest Law immigration lawyers
Manifest Law immigration lawyers
Manifest Law immigration lawyers

How Manifest Law can help

How Manifest Law can help

Having a skilled immigration attorney on your side can make a huge difference. At Manifest Law, we specialize in L2 visas and are here to guide you through each step of the process, making sure your application is thorough and meets all necessary criteria.


We offer flexible payment plans over up to 6 months and provide a visa-approved or money-back guarantee (terms apply). 


Reach out today for a free consultation to see how we can simplify your L2 visa application and boost your chances of approval.

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Questions sign
Questions sign

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

How long is an L2 visa valid for the USA?

The L2 visa is typically valid for the same duration as the L1 visa held by your spouse or parent. This means that as long as the L1 visa is valid, your L2 visa will be too. If the L1 visa is renewed or extended, your L2 visa can also be extended to match. It's important to keep track of the visa expiration dates and apply for extensions if needed.

Which is better: L1 or L2 visa?

The L1 and L2 visas serve different purposes, so "better" depends on your situation. The L1 visa is for employees of international companies being transferred to a U.S. branch, while the L-2 visa is for the dependents of L1 visa holders. 

If you're the primary worker and want to be employed in the U.S., the L1 visa is the way to go. However, if you're a spouse or child of an L1 visa holder, the L2 visa allows you to live and work in the U.S.


Read more about the L1 visa in our comprehensive guide.

Can L2 holders apply for a green card?

Yes, L2 visa holders can apply for a green card, but the process isn't automatic. As an L2 visa holder, you would need to follow the same green card application procedures as any other applicant. This often involves finding a qualifying family member or employer who can sponsor you for permanent residency. If your L1 spouse or parent transitions to a green card, this might also positively impact your own application for permanent residency.

Can a L2 visa be converted to L1?

An L2 visa cannot be directly converted to an L1 visa. The L1 visa is for individuals who are being transferred to the U.S. in a managerial or executive role or have specialized knowledge, while the L-2 visa is for dependents of L1 visa holders. If you want to switch to an L1 visa, you would need to apply separately, meet the eligibility requirements, and go through the application process for the L1 visa.

Does a L2 visa need an interview?

For the L2 visa application process, an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate is generally required. During this interview, you'll need to provide documentation proving your relationship to the L1 visa holder and your eligibility for the visa.

Can a L2 visa holder travel to the US without L1?

You do not need to travel at the same time as long as you both have valid visas, but the L2 visa is dependent on the L1 visa holder’s status. If the L1 visa holder's status changes, it could affect your ability to travel or stay in the U.S.

Can I study on a L2 visa?

Yes, as an L2 visa holder, you are allowed to study in the U.S. You can enroll in educational institutions, from primary schools to universities, without any special permits.

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Avi Goldenberg

Principal attorney at Manifest Law

Take the First Step:

Schedule your free consultation!

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Review of visa options available for you

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General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options

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Information on Manifest fees, terms and process

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Full clarity and transparency every step along the way

Picture of Avi Goldenberg, principal attorney at Manifest Law

Avi Goldenberg

Principal attorney at Manifest Law

Take the First Step:

Schedule your free consultation!

Check mark in a circle icon

Review of visa options available for you

Check mark in a circle icon

General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options

Check mark in a circle icon

Information on Manifest fees, terms and process

Check mark in a circle icon

Full clarity and transparency every step along the way

Picture of Avi Goldenberg, principal attorney at Manifest Law

Avi Goldenberg

Principal attorney at Manifest Law

Attorney Advertising. This website is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and is no substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Only an attorney can provide you with legal advice, and only after considering your specific facts and circumstances. You should not act on any information on this website without first seeking the advice of an attorney. Manifest Law is an association of lawyers and legal entities that have agreed to do business under a common name. The use of the name “Manifest Law” does not imply that all lawyers or legal entities within the Manifest Law family are part of a single partnership or that they are responsible for the acts or omissions of each other. Any specific attorney-client engagement, the scope of any such attorney-client relationship, and the legal responsibility for any such engagement will be set forth in the
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Attorney Advertising. This website is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and is no substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Only an attorney can provide you with legal advice, and only after considering your specific facts and circumstances. You should not act on any information on this website without first seeking the advice of an attorney. Manifest Law is an association of lawyers and legal entities that have agreed to do business under a common name. The use of the name “Manifest Law” does not imply that all lawyers or legal entities within the Manifest Law family are part of a single partnership or that they are responsible for the acts or omissions of each other. Any specific attorney-client engagement, the scope of any such attorney-client relationship, and the legal responsibility for any such engagement will be set forth in the
retainer agreement entered into between the client and the relevant Manifest Law attorney(s).

2024 Manifest Copyright. All Rights Reserved.

Attorney Advertising. This website is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and is no substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Only an attorney can provide you with legal advice, and only after considering your specific facts and circumstances. You should not act on any information on this website without first seeking the advice of an attorney. Manifest Law is an association of lawyers and legal entities that have agreed to do business under a common name. The use of the name “Manifest Law” does not imply that all lawyers or legal entities within the Manifest Law family are part of a single partnership or that they are responsible for the acts or omissions of each other. Any specific attorney-client engagement, the scope of any such attorney-client relationship, and the legal responsibility for any such engagement will be set forth in the
retainer agreement entered into between the client and the relevant Manifest Law attorney(s).

2024 Manifest Copyright. All Rights Reserved.