For the EB-1C, do I need to work at the U.S. affiliate for a period before applying?

No. The EB-1C does not require you to first work at the U.S. affiliate before filing your petition. The experience the category values is the one gained outside the United States, at the multinational company, in a managerial or executive capacity.

The EB-1C was designed for the transfer of executives and managers from a company abroad to a U.S. affiliate, subsidiary, or parent. The underlying logic is that the professional has already held a qualifying leadership role overseas for a set period, and will assume an equivalent role in the United States. It is not the time spent at the U.S. operation that triggers the petition, but rather that track record of leadership abroad.

• The qualifying experience is the leadership role held at the company overseas.
• Prior work at the U.S. affiliate is not required before filing.
• The U.S. role must be compatible, either managerial or executive in nature.

Because the minimum time requirement and how it is counted may change and are subject to review by the relevant authority, confirm the current requirements with USCIS or with a specialist before building your case.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.