I am a vice president abroad, but the U.S. company is smaller. Do I still qualify as a manager under EB-1?

Under EB-1, in the category for multinational executives and managers (EB-1C), what matters is not the title on your business card or the size of the U.S. operation, but rather the nature of your duties. A smaller U.S. entity does not, on its own, disqualify you from classification as a manager or executive.

The analysis focuses on what you actually do: whether you make strategic decisions, direct the organization or a key function, supervise teams or other managers, and exercise autonomy and decision-making authority. It is the managerial or executive substance of the role, not the reduced org chart of the subsidiary, that supports the case.

• Describe responsibilities, autonomy, and decision-making authority in concrete terms.
• Use organizational charts that place your position within the hierarchy on both sides.
• Document the ongoing relationship between the foreign parent and the U.S. entity.

Since each case is evaluated individually, it is worth building evidence that demonstrates the substance of the role and reviewing the current EB-1C criteria on the USCIS website or with a specialist.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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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.