Can I open a foreign branch and apply for a reverse L-1?

Yes, it is possible to structure an L-1 petition in what is known as the reverse L-1 scenario, where a company already operating abroad opens a new office in the United States and transfers an executive, manager, or employee with specialized knowledge to that location. The L-1 was designed precisely to give these professionals mobility between companies with a qualifying relationship, such as a parent, branch, subsidiary, or affiliate.

To support the petition, several key elements are typically evaluated:

• The existence of a qualifying relationship between the foreign company and the new U.S. entity.
• Evidence that the professional performed managerial, executive, or specialized functions abroad for a qualifying period within the required recent window.
• In the case of a newly opened office, evidence that the new entity has the capacity to develop real business activity and that the professional’s presence is necessary to put it into operation.

Because it involves a new operation, this type of case typically requires robust documentation, such as a business plan, financial evidence, and an operational strategy. Each petition is evaluated individually, so the most prudent step is to review the eligibility framework with an immigration specialist and confirm current requirements with USCIS 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.