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In the USA, the company is small but I am the CEO. EB-1C?

Eligibility for EB-1C depends on the company's structure and proof of an executive position, as well as a minimum of one year's operation in the U.S. and a clear relationship with a foreign entity.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on March 13, 2025
2 min read
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The EB-1C category was created specifically for executives or managers of multinational companies who wish to transfer to the United States. However, the fact that your company is considered small and you occupy the position of CEO requires a detailed analysis, since eligibility for this category depends on certain formal requirements.

Firstly, to qualify for the EB-1C, it is necessary to prove that you have performed an executive or managerial role for at least one year in the last three years, at a company abroad that maintains a qualified relationship with the U.S. company (for example, as a parent company, branch, or affiliate).

Even though you are CEO, the analysis will consider the structure and size of the company, both in the United States and abroad. If the U.S. company does not demonstrate a robust structure or a clear relationship with a qualified foreign entity, there may be difficulties in meeting the criteria established by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Moreover, it is important to remember that USCIS requires that the U.S. company has been in operation for at least one year as part of the EB-1C petition process. Therefore, small or newly established companies may face additional challenges to prove the capacity to manage a sustainable operation in the U.S. while maintaining the connection with the foreign entity.

For these reasons, it is essential to follow U.S. immigration laws and seek specialized guidance. Consulting experienced professionals and verifying all applicable rules helps avoid problems during the immigration process, as well as prevents falling victim to scams or marketing campaigns that promise results without a basis in current legislation.

Remember: each case is unique and the success of a petition depends on a thorough analysis of all documentation and the company’s compliance with the EB-1C requirements. Therefore, carefully studying the case and relying on trustworthy sources can make all the difference in the immigration 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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In the USA, the company is small but I am the CEO. EB-1C?

Eligibility for EB-1C depends on the company's structure and proof of an executive position, as well as a minimum of one year's operation in the U.S. and a clear relationship with a foreign entity.

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