In the EB-1C, is the foreign branch where I worked for 1 year now headquartered in another country?

The EB-1C visa was created to facilitate the transfer of executives and managers of multinational companies to the United States. To qualify for this type of visa, it is essential that there is a clear relationship between the foreign company and the company in the U.S. Generally, the rule requires that the applicant has worked for at least one year in a foreign company that maintains a common ownership or control link with the company that will file the petition in the United States.

In your case, if the foreign branch where you worked for one year was associated with the U.S. company, it is important to verify whether, at the time you acquired this experience, the relationship between the companies was properly established. The fact that the headquarters or structure of the foreign company has changed and is now located in another country does not necessarily compromise the eligibility of the petition, provided that the legal and structural connection between the entity where you worked and the U.S. company was clear and robust at the time your work was performed.

However, it is essential to gather detailed evidence proving this relationship between the companies, such as corporate structure certificates, demonstrations of control, and other relevant documents that attest to the link between the branch where you worked and the entity petitioning in the United States. Thus, even if the location of the headquarters has changed, what matters is the organizational structure and the relationship between both, as configured during the required period.

Remember that strict compliance with United States immigration laws is fundamental. Whenever there are doubts about the interpretation of the rules or about the necessary documentation, it is advisable to seek guidance from professionals specialized in the field. This practice helps avoid problems with poorly conducted processes or with irresistible marketing offers that promise ease without a thorough analysis of the case.

In summary, the change in the location of the foreign company’s headquarters does not automatically invalidate the required work time for qualification under EB-1C, provided that the relationship between the foreign company and the U.S. petitioner was properly established during the period you worked there.

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.