Does L2 Visa Require Sponsorship?
The L2 visa is a non-immigrant visa category in the United States that allows the spouse or child of an L1 visa holder to stay in the country. It is a popular choice for families of international employees who are transferred to the U.S. for a temporary period. However, one of the most common questions among applicants is whether the L2 visa requires sponsorship. In this article, we will explore the role of sponsorship in obtaining an L2 visa and the responsibilities of the sponsor.
Understanding the L2 Visa
The L2 visa is a dependent visa, which means that it is tied to the L1 visa holder. The L1 visa is issued to individuals who are being transferred to the U.S. by their employer to work in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge position. The L2 visa allows the spouse and children under the age of 21 to accompany the L1 visa holder to the U.S.
The Role of Sponsorship
In the case of the L2 visa, sponsorship is not required in the traditional sense. Unlike certain other visa categories, such as the H1B or the J1 visa, the L2 visa does not require a separate employer to sponsor the dependent’s stay in the U.S. Instead, the L2 visa holder’s relationship to the L1 visa holder is what justifies their stay.
Responsibilities of the Sponsor
Although sponsorship is not required for the L2 visa, the L1 visa holder (the sponsor) has certain responsibilities. They must demonstrate that they are employed by a U.S. employer and that their position qualifies them for an L1 visa. Additionally, the sponsor must ensure that the L2 visa holder has adequate health insurance coverage and that they are not likely to become a public charge.
Obtaining an L2 Visa
To obtain an L2 visa, the applicant must follow these steps:
1. Ensure that the L1 visa holder is already in the U.S. and has been granted an L1 visa.
2. Gather the necessary documentation, including a copy of the L1 visa holder’s passport, visa, and I-94 form.
3. Complete the Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, and pay the required fee.
4. Submit the application and supporting documents to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the L2 visa does not require sponsorship in the traditional sense. Instead, it is a dependent visa that is tied to the L1 visa holder. While the L1 visa holder has certain responsibilities, the primary requirement for obtaining an L2 visa is the existing relationship between the L1 visa holder and the dependent. Understanding the requirements and responsibilities associated with the L2 visa can help applicants navigate the visa process more effectively.
