For EB-1C, can I be a branch manager abroad in another way?

The EB-1C is a visa category aimed at executives or managers who have performed high-responsibility roles outside the United States and are being transferred to a branch, parent, or affiliate in the U.S. To qualify, it is essential that the administrative or executive experience acquired abroad complies with the criteria established by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

In the specific case of acting as a branch manager abroad, what matters is that your duties truly involve managing significant operations and making strategic decisions that impact the company as a whole. If you hold a position responsible for leading a branch that operates independently within the company’s scope, with authority to conduct administrative activities and make important decisions, this experience may be considered valid for the EB-1C petition.

However, it is necessary to prove that the position held abroad fits within the executive or managerial functions defined by the regulations. This includes demonstrating that the role involved control of a company area, supervision of managers, or performance of duties that guide the course of the branch’s operation. Other positions that may appear similar to a branch manager might have restrictions if they do not present the same breadth of authority and responsibility.

It is essential to emphasize the importance of following U.S. immigration laws to ensure that all criteria are respected. Seeking specialized advice from companies or professionals with extensive immigration knowledge is always recommended to avoid falling for scams or marketing campaigns that promise guaranteed results without proper individualized case analysis. Each situation is unique and requires a careful evaluation of the documents and activities performed abroad.

Therefore, it is prudent to consult specialized sources or a qualified professional to confirm if your experience as a branch manager meets the EB-1C requirements, so as to avoid future complications during the immigration process.

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.