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If the foreign company had only four employees, but I was the CEO. EB-1C?

Being a CEO in a foreign company with few employees can qualify for the EB-1C, provided that an executive function and appropriate multinational structure are proven.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on October 23, 2025
2 min read
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It is important to clarify that the EB-1C visa was created to facilitate the transfer of executives and managers of multinational companies to the United States.

Generally, to qualify, the candidate must have worked outside the US in an executive or managerial capacity for at least one year in the three years preceding the petition, and the foreign company must have a qualifying relationship with the new operation in the United States (such as a subsidiary, affiliate, or parent company).

In your case, even if the foreign company had only four employees, the determining factor is whether you actually performed an executive role as CEO, meeting the leadership and management requirements that the program demands. There is no rule setting a minimum number of employees; however, it is essential to demonstrate that the structure and operations of the foreign company were compatible with a multinational business. This includes evidence of an established hierarchy, executive processes, and an organization that clearly shows the leadership role.

Each case is unique, and the analysis of the complete set of documents – such as organizational charts, detailed job descriptions, and evidence of a robust international structure – is essential to evaluate eligibility for the EB-1C.

It should be emphasized that strict compliance with United States immigration laws and regulations, as well as consultation with trustworthy sources and specialized professionals, is always recommended to avoid setbacks and mistakes that could compromise the process. Always verify information and be cautious of offers promising miracle solutions or guaranteed approvals.

Compliance with the standards established by USCIS is indispensable for a successful process, and having specialized guidance can help structure the petition properly, without implying promises of results that cannot be assured in advance.

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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If the foreign company had only four employees, but I was the CEO. EB-1C?

Being a CEO in a foreign company with few employees can qualify for the EB-1C, provided that an executive function and appropriate multinational structure are proven.

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