Can I be a minority partner and still have an L-1A?

The L-1A visa was created to allow multinational companies to transfer executives or managers from abroad to the United States, facilitating business growth and international expansion. The analysis of this type of visa focuses on the managerial or executive role performed by the applicant within the company.

In general terms, being a minority partner does not, by itself, prevent obtaining an L-1A visa. What matters is demonstrating that, during a period of at least one year outside the United States, you performed a managerial or executive function in the company that links you to the foreign organization and that in your new position in the United States, you will continue to carry out executive or managerial duties of a decisional and supervisory nature.

In practice, USCIS evaluates whether the activities you will perform in the United States truly fit the definition of ”manager or executive”. Thus, even if you are a minority partner, what becomes decisive is the form and substance of your role within the company”s organizational structure. If it is proven that you have authority to hire, supervise teams, make strategic decisions, and that your operational involvement is significant, the minority partner condition should not represent an obstacle.

It is essential that all documentation and evidence presented clearly demonstrate this hierarchical relationship and the leadership role you occupy. For this reason, it is always advisable to strictly follow United States immigration laws and seek guidance from specialized professionals to avoid misunderstandings or falling into traps of schemes that promise results without a detailed analysis of each case.

Remember that each case has its particularities and that USCIS”s analysis is thorough. Maintaining the integrity of information and following the rules is fundamental for a safe and transparent immigration process.

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.