Published on November 19, 2025 · 2 min read
An L-2 visa is a temporary, non-immigrant visa for the immediate family members of someone working in the United States on an L-1 visa. It allows the spouse and unmarried children under 21 of an L-1 visa holder to live in the U.S. for the same length of time as the primary visa holder. The visa is meant to keep families together while executives, managers, or specialized employees of multinational companies complete long-term work assignments in the U.S.
Key elements of an L-2 visa
For dependents of L-1 visa holders: Designed specifically for spouses and children of employees transferred to a U.S. office of a multinational company.
Length of stay: Valid for as long as the L-1 visa holder maintains lawful status. Initial stays are typically up to three years, with possible extensions in two-year increments, up to a maximum of seven years, depending on the L-1 category.
Work authorization: L-2 spouses can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), allowing them to work in the U.S. in any field, full-time or part-time. In recent years, USCIS has streamlined this process, making it easier for spouses to begin working sooner.
Study opportunities: L-2 dependents may study full-time or part-time at any U.S. school or university without a separate student visa.
Application process: You must submit proof of the family relationship (marriage or birth certificate), evidence of the L-1 visa holder’s valid status, and attend a consular interview if you are applying abroad. Dependents already in the U.S. may apply for a change of status through USCIS.
Travel flexibility: L-2 holders can leave and re-enter the U.S. freely during the visa’s validity as long as the L-1 visa holder maintains their status
Life on an L-2 visa
The L-2 visa helps families stay connected during an L-1 visa assignment and offers more flexibility than other dependent visas. The ability for spouses to work and children to study without extra restrictions provides meaningful opportunities for the whole family. However, because the visa is tied directly to the L-1 holder’s status, any job change, loss of employment, or expiration of the L-1 will also affect the L-2 dependents’ ability to stay in the U.S. Planning ahead and maintaining valid documentation is essential.
