Under the EB-1C, can I supervise freelancers or contractors?

Supervising freelancers or contractors does not automatically disqualify you from the EB-1C, but it is rarely enough on its own. The category focuses on executive or managerial leadership within a formal organizational structure, with genuine authority over people or over a significant function of the company.

When management involves workers without a formal employment relationship, the review tends to be more demanding, because it becomes harder to demonstrate the hierarchical control and corporate structure that the category requires. That does not invalidate your experience, but it does call for a stronger evidentiary record.

• Show that you make strategic decisions, not just coordinate individual tasks.
• Document your position in the org chart and the scope of your authority.
• If your leadership is primarily over third parties, gather additional evidence to support the managerial or executive nature of your role.

Because each case is evaluated individually, it is worth reviewing the current criteria on the official source (USCIS) and discussing how to frame your responsibilities with a specialist before filing.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

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.