In general, I would say the L-1A (versus the L-1B) visa is more optimal than the H-1B visa. Here are some of the reasons why:
- Longer validity period
- No cap/quota (you can apply at any time)
- Spouses can work
- No minimum prevailing wage requirement
- No minimum education requirements
- Can likely apply for the faster track EB-1(C) green card category, which has no wait times or labor certification requirements.
The L-1B visa has different requirements and may not be a better option than the H-1B visa depending on the circumstances.
If an L-1 visa holder wants to work for a different employer, he or she can then switch to the H-1B visa (as long as he or she meets the H-1B visa requirements). However, the time spent on the L visa is counted against the H-1B visa time.
