Can I say that I managed a team of 5 researchers and 2 interns abroad for 1 year. EB-1C?

The EB-1C visa is intended for executives and managers who work for multinational companies and wish to transfer their knowledge and responsibilities to operations in the United States. It requires the candidate to have held managerial or executive roles in a foreign company for at least one year, in a position similar to the one to be performed in the U.S.-based company.

In your case, stating that you managed a team consisting of 5 researchers and 2 interns for one year may, in theory, satisfy part of the managerial experience requirement. However, it is crucial that this work demonstrates you had significant authority to make strategic decisions, set goals, and influence company policy, not just supervise administrative or operational tasks.

Immigration authorities will analyze whether your functions truly fit the profile of “executive” or “manager” according to EB-1C criteria, considering aspects such as:
• The complexity of the responsibilities assumed;
• The level of autonomy in decision-making;
• The relevance of your position in the company’s hierarchical structure;
• The relationship between the job held abroad and the job to be performed in the U.S.

Moreover, it is essential that both the foreign company and the U.S. company are legally structured and maintain a corporate relationship that meets the visa program requirements.

Each case is evaluated individually by immigration officers, and detailed documentation, such as organizational charts, job descriptions, and recommendation letters, may be necessary to prove the managerial or executive nature of the position.

Always remember the importance of complying with all U.S. immigration laws and seeking specialized guidance to avoid misunderstandings or falling for unfounded promises guaranteeing results.

The complexity of the rules and the need for robust documentation reinforce why it is recommended to consult reliable sources and specialized professionals to conduct the process safely and appropriately.

This clarification aims to help understand the EB-1C visa requirements but does not replace individualized legal analysis.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.