If I am ‘co-CEO’ or ‘co-chair’, does EB-1C work?

The EB-1C visa is intended for executives and managers of multinational companies who wish to transfer to a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate company in the United States. To qualify, you must prove that you have held a leadership role with decision-making authority and significant management responsibility outside the United States for at least one year in the three years preceding the application.

In the case of holding positions with titles such as ‘co-CEO’ or ‘co-chair’, the eligibility decision does not depend solely on the job title, but mainly on the functions and responsibilities actually performed. If your co-CEO or co-chair role involves clear executive duties – such as strategy formulation, oversight of operations, and high-level decision making for the company – there is a possibility that you may meet the EB-1C requirements.

However, the fact that leadership is shared may raise questions regarding exclusive authority, which is one of the points evaluated by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The analysis of your case will take into account the company’s hierarchical structure, the distribution of powers among the leaders, and the way your responsibilities are clearly outlined in corporate documentation.

It is essential to present detailed evidence – such as organizational charts, job descriptions, management reports, and declarations showing your involvement in strategic decision making – to demonstrate that, regardless of the ‘co-‘ title, you perform functions compatible with the profile of an executive or manager.

Considering the complexity of the criteria and the importance of meeting all the requirements of U.S. immigration laws, it is very important to seek specialized guidance. Consulting professionals or firms with recognized experience in immigration can help avoid misunderstandings, scams, or unfounded promises that are not based on current legislation. Staying informed and following legal procedures is fundamental to the success of any immigration process.

Always remember: each case has its particularities, and a detailed analysis is indispensable to verify whether your profile fits the EB-1C visa requirements or not.

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.