My role had no direct reports, but I set budgets. Does that count as managerial?

In the EB-1, determining whether a position qualifies as managerial or executive goes well beyond job titles: what matters are the functions actually performed and the strategic impact on the organization. Setting budgets, even without directly supervising a team, can be a strong indicator of this type of role.

This is because establishing budgets typically involves authority over resources, an understanding of company objectives, and meaningful decisions about investments and costs. The power to set financial standards and guide strategy can align with executive functions, even when the structure includes no direct subordinates.

That said, every case is evaluated individually. Assessors typically look at the level of autonomy, influence over operations, and the significance of decisions to the organization’s outcomes. Setting budgets helps, but it carries more weight when supported by evidence that demonstrates the real scope of that responsibility.

• The role performed matters more than the job title.
• Authority over resources and strategy brings the function closer to an executive profile.
• Document your autonomy, influence, and the impact of your decisions.

Since the analysis is conducted on a case-by-case basis by the relevant authority, it is worth reviewing the current criteria on the official source (USCIS) and evaluating your background with a specialist before filing.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.