Is it allowed to be a CEO abroad and in the US without intervals, but without an L-1 visa?

Let’s clarify this matter based on the general guidelines of United States immigration, remembering that each case has its particularities and it is essential to strictly follow the current laws and regulations, as well as seek information from reliable and specialized sources.

First of all, it is important to note that the EB-1 visa, especially the EB-1C category, is aimed at executives and managers of multinational companies. To qualify in this category, the candidate must prove that he/she has served as an executive or manager for at least one consecutive year within the last three years at a foreign company that has a relationship with the entity in the United States. This proof is crucial to demonstrate the necessary experience, regardless of continuous activities abroad, that is, without interruptions in performing the CEO role in another location.

The question of being a CEO both abroad and in the United States without using an L-1 visa deserves special attention. The EB-1C visa does not require an interruption of the position or a clear ‘transfer’ from a foreign position to a position in the US. However, it is essential to have a clear organizational structure and a qualified relationship between the foreign company and the entity in the United States. These elements ensure that the candidate truly performs high-level management or executive functions, as well as demonstrate that his/her skills and experience meet the criteria established by US immigration.

It is worth emphasizing that, although it is possible to accumulate functions in different locations, the candidate must support, through precise documents and records, that the roles performed in each place are of an executive or managerial nature, meeting the EB-1C requirements. Similarly, the absence of the L-1 visa, which is specifically intended for transfers within multinational companies, means that the entire set of experience and corporate structure must be clearly demonstrated for immigration authorities to understand that the criteria have been fully met.

Finally, we always recommend caution and attention regarding United States immigration laws, seeking information directly from official sources and avoiding approaches that promise miraculous results. Consulting trusted and specialized immigration professionals is fundamental for a detailed case analysis, without guarantees of results, but with the security of personalized guidance based on current laws.

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.