I worked for a full year, but at two different companies within the same group. Is the EB-1C valid?

The EB-1C visa is intended for executives or managers who have worked in multinational organizations, performing high-level management or executive functions, and are being transferred to a U.S. office of an affiliated or subsidiary company. One of the essential criteria is to prove, continuously, at least one year of experience in an executive or managerial position outside the United States, directly related to the relationship between the entities within the corporate group.

In your case, working for a full year, even if at two different companies, can be considered within the EB-1C context if there is a clear connection between the two entities. That is, if these companies are part of the same corporate group, with control and ownership relations, and if the positions held in both were of managerial or executive nature, there may be grounds to consolidate this period as the required experience.

However, it is crucial that the documentation demonstrates this continuity in the role and the effective connection between the companies, making clear that your role was part of a unified organizational structure. It is important to remember that United States immigration rules have specific and strict criteria. Therefore, it is vital to gather solid evidence, such as job function reports, organizational charts, corporate contracts, and statements that demonstrate the relationship between the companies and the executive or managerial nature of the positions held.

In this way, you will be better positioned to face the analysis of the Consulate or USCIS. Always be cautious of information or offers promising easy solutions or guaranteed approvals without a detailed analysis of your professional history and the corporate structure of the companies involved. Strictly following immigration laws and seeking guidance from specialized professionals – whenever possible – can help avoid mistakes and scams, as well as provide a better understanding of the specific requirements of the EB-1C.

Each case has its particularities, and the interpretation of the criteria may vary according to the evidence presented. Therefore, evaluating your work history and the organization of the companies involved in detail is indispensable to understand whether the EB-1C requirements have been effectively met.

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.