Does the foreign company need to own 100% of the company in the USA?

When we think about the L visa, which is intended for intra-company transfers, it is important to clarify some points regarding the relationship between the foreign company and the company in the United States. This visa category allows executives, managers, and employees with specialized knowledge to be transferred to a branch, subsidiary, parent company, or affiliate located on American soil.

First, it is essential to understand that there is no requirement for the foreign company to own 100% of the company in the USA. The key requirement of the L visa is that there is a qualified relationship between the companies, that is, they are connected through ownership or sufficient control, as is the case of a branch, subsidiary, parent company, or affiliate. This connection must demonstrate that the operations are interconnected and that the management and policies of the foreign company influence or control the American company.

However, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of strictly following the United States immigration laws. Every detail must comply with the regulations established by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which includes proving the qualified corporate relationship and the necessary aspects of control or ownership for visa approval.

To avoid complications, it is always recommended to seek more detailed guidance through reliable sources or specialized firms. This way, you also protect yourself against possible scams and marketing campaigns that promise miraculous results without proper legal security.

In summary, the answer to the question is: No, the foreign company does not need to own 100% of the company in the USA, but must maintain a corporate relationship that proves control or a significant connection between the two entities. It is always worth remembering that the regularity of the process depends on fulfilling all legal requirements and a thorough analysis of each specific situation.

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.