Does the U.S. company need to have local employees before sponsoring an L-1?

No. There is no rule requiring a minimum number of local employees for a U.S. company to sponsor someone under the L-1. What truly matters is demonstrating that the American operation is legitimate and maintains, or will maintain, consistent business activity.

The L-1 presupposes a qualifying relationship between the companies (parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch). For already established businesses, the structure must reflect actual operational capacity. When it comes to a New Office L-1, the focus shifts to a solid business plan that shows viability and the expectation of hiring as the operation grows.

• There is no minimum number of local employees required by rule.
• The company must demonstrate real operations and consistent commercial activity.
• For a new office, the business plan is the central point.

Because immigration authorities closely examine the existence of a functional operation, it is worth confirming updated requirements with USCIS or with a specialist, and gathering documentation that proves the company’s activity.

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.