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I worked as CTO of a startup that opened a branch in the USA. Can I apply for EB-1C?

Serving as CTO may qualify for the EB-1C visa, provided that the position involves executive leadership and the US branch has a proven corporate relationship.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on December 8, 2025
1 min read
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The EB-1C visa is intended for multinational executives and managers who plan to assume leadership roles in an affiliated, subsidiary, or parent company in the United States.

To qualify, it is necessary to prove at least one year of executive or managerial experience outside the USA within the last three years, as well as a qualified corporate relationship between the companies.

Although the position of CTO can be considered executive, it is essential to demonstrate that your responsibilities included strategic decisions and management.

The structure between the startup and the branch must be well documented to meet legal requirements, and the individual analysis of each case is rigorous.

Strict compliance with the law and consultation with specialists is recommended, avoiding dubious promises. Thoroughly verifying eligibility is fundamental for a safe and proper process.

Learn more about EB-1 Visa

Category
EB-1 Green Card (1st priority)
Requirement
Extraordinary ability
Self-petition
Allowed (no sponsor needed)
Processing
6-18 months
All about EB-1 Visa
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.

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I worked as CTO of a startup that opened a branch in the USA. Can I apply for EB-1C?

Serving as CTO may qualify for the EB-1C visa, provided that the position involves executive leadership and the US branch has a proven corporate relationship.

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