Can I maintain another business activity in my home country?

It depends. The L-1 was created to transfer executives, managers, and specialized knowledge professionals from a company abroad to its branch, subsidiary, or affiliate in the United States. The logic of this visa is that you dedicate yourself to the functions for which you were designated at the U.S. entity.

Maintaining a parallel business activity in your home country is not automatically prohibited, but it must be compatible with that commitment. Generally speaking, there is usually room for such activity when it does not conflict with the corporate relationship that supports the visa or undermine your responsibilities in the U.S.

Some points deserve attention:

• The activity abroad must be compatible with the functions and dedication that the L-1 requires.
• You must observe both U.S. immigration rules and the laws of your home country.
• Situations involving dual roles may require analysis to rule out conflicts of interest.

Because each corporate structure and each case has its own particularities, it is advisable to seek specialized guidance and verify updated rules with USCIS before taking on or maintaining parallel business interests, so as to avoid risks to your status.

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.