How many months on L-1A can I request EB-1C?

Let’s start by highlighting that both the L-1A visa and the EB-1C are important tools in the context of intracompany transfers and obtaining permanent residency in the United States. Each has its specific requirements, and it’s crucial to understand that they are not simply based on a ‘counting of months’, but on proving managerial or executive functions performed by the applicant.

For the EB-1C, the central requirement is to demonstrate that the candidate has worked, for at least 12 months, in an executive or managerial role outside the United States during the three years preceding the immigration petition (or, if already in the country, the executive activity abroad must be proven). Thus, it is not exactly about ‘months on L-1A,’ but rather having performed, in an executive or managerial capacity, the functions for which EB-1C requires proof. It is worth remembering that L-1A status itself is intended to facilitate the transfer of executives and managers within multinational companies, but to qualify for EB-1C, it is essential that this experience has been accumulated with the characteristics required by the category, especially at least one year of managerial experience outside the United States.

In other words, if you obtained the L-1A and already have, demonstrably, 12 months of executive or managerial experience abroad within the past three years – which may or may not be related to your time under L-1A – you may meet the requirements to apply for the EB-1C. It is not the specific number of months under L-1A status that matters, but rather meeting the executive or managerial experience criteria as established by United States immigration law.

I emphasize the importance of always following immigration laws and regulations, as well as seeking guidance from reliable and specialized sources on the subject. Look for qualified professionals and avoid falling for scams or marketing schemes that promise guaranteed results, since each case is unique and the interpretation of requirements may vary according to specific situations.

I hope I have helped clarify your question in a simple and clear manner!

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.