Organise the conversation around the companies, your employment history and the proposed U.S. role. L-1A and L-1B share a company-transfer framework, but the evidence describing the role must match the classification being considered. This is a preparation outline, not a complete filing checklist.
The relationship between the companies
Identify the Canadian and U.S. entities and gather an outline of their ownership or control relationship. Describe what each business does, whether the U.S. operation is established or new, and who can provide the corporate and operating records.
The employee’s work history
Prepare a clear employment chronology and descriptions of the work performed abroad. Dates, entity names and duties should be consistent across the records. Discuss the applicable employment requirements with the adviser rather than assuming that any previous job with a related company is sufficient.
The proposed role: two different evidence questions
For L-1A, discuss the actual managerial or executive responsibilities and supporting organisational evidence. For L-1B, explain the relevant special or advanced knowledge and how it will be used; it need not always be proprietary or unique. A title alone does not explain either role.
Before transferring documents
Confirm the required originals, copies, translations and secure delivery method. Start with a summary in the enquiry; do not upload passports, payroll files or confidential corporate records through the initial contact form.
Reviewed 7 September 2026. General information, not legal advice. Rules and procedures can change.