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BROSSARD · L-1A FIELD GUIDE

Should sales forecasts determine the immigration preparation budget?

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THE DIRECT ANSWER

The preparation scope depends on the actual issues and evidence. Separate professional review, current official charges and operating expenses.

Budget for the role analysis

Ask whether the estimate includes reviewing duties, support and the company relationship. A higher forecast does not guarantee eligibility or simplify missing evidence. Clarify additional work if the sales organization changes.

The list typically includes the I-129 base fee, a fraud-prevention and detection fee, an asylum-program fee whose amount depends on employer size, and premium processing if faster adjudication is wanted. Prepare a ledger separating government filing charges, document retrieval, translation, professional work, premises, payroll, and operating funds. The USCIS fee schedule (G-1055) sets the Form I-129 fee for the L classification and lists the additional statutory charges that apply to L-1 petitions, including the fraud prevention and detection fee and, depending on the petitioner's size and workforce, other surcharges. An unsigned estimate or rounded budget line shows an intention to spend, not that bookkeeping, fulfillment, marketing, or customer support will be available. If the transfer involves a new office, the business's own operating budget is a distinct category from immigration fees.