I heard that I can apply for EB-1C after 1 year on L-1A in the US. Is that correct?

It is important to understand that the requirements for EB-1C go beyond simply accumulating a certain amount of time in L-1A status. EB-1C is a permanent residency (Green Card) visa category intended for multinational executives and managers who, among other criteria, must prove that they have held managerial or executive positions for at least one year within the three years preceding the petition – this period can include time spent outside the United States working for an affiliated company.

Although being on L-1A means that you already qualify as a multinational executive or manager, there is no automatic rule allowing application for EB-1C after ‘just one year’ on L-1A in the US. It is essential to demonstrate that you worked in a similar position abroad, within the organizational hierarchy, and that the company has a qualifying relationship (such as parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate) with the US operation.

In other words, time on L-1A can be part of the evidence you present but is not, by itself, the decisive criterion. Keep in mind that each case has its peculiarities, and fully meeting EB-1C requirements requires detailed analysis of the company structure, professional background, and documentation proving your managerial or executive functions.

Therefore, it is always wise to follow US laws and guidelines and seek guidance from experienced and reputable immigration professionals to avoid misinformation, scams, or promises of results that are not based on the reality of immigration processes. When seeking information, it is essential to consult official sources and reliable specialists who can evaluate your specific case and advise on the immigration strategy that best fits your situation, without promising outcomes.

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.