Does L-1 require proof of invested capital?

No. The L-1 does not require the company or the employee to prove that a capital investment was made in order to qualify. That is a requirement of other programs, such as the investor visa E-2, but not of the L-1.

The L-1 has a different focus: the qualifying relationship between the parent company and its branches, subsidiaries, or affiliates, and the transfer of employees between those entities, including when the company is expanding its operations in the United States.

What immigration authorities expect to see is evidence that the foreign company and its U.S. affiliate have a real and functional structure, with genuine business activity that supports the transfer of the professional to operate or manage the American unit.

In other words, instead of invested capital, what matters is a legitimate connection between the entities and a solid business strategy. Since requirements can change, it is worth confirming the latest requirements with USCIS and reviewing your case with a specialist.

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.