If I own a business abroad, can I apply for an L-1?

When we think about transfers within companies that operate internationally, the L visa can be an interesting option for those who already have a business abroad and wish to expand their operations to the United States. This visa is intended for employees who work in executive, managerial positions or have specialized knowledge and who demonstrate a qualified corporate relationship between the foreign company and the branch, subsidiary, or affiliate in the U.S.

In the case of an entrepreneur who owns their own business abroad, it is possible to apply for the L-1 visa, provided that clear and formal links are established between the foreign company and the new entity in the United States. This means that, for the transfer to be considered valid, the foreign company and the U.S. operation must be legally connected – such as through a parent and branch relationship, where the parent outside the United States exercises substantial control over the new American company.

It is important to emphasize that the applicant must prove that they worked for at least one continuous year at the foreign company, holding an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge position, before being transferred to the United States. Additionally, the U.S. government expects the new operation to be capable of starting real and substantial commercial activities within a set time frame after the visa is approved.

Keep in mind that complying with United States immigration laws is essential to avoid future complications, and it is always wise to seek the guidance of experts in the field. There are experienced companies and professionals who can help verify if all requirements are being met and prepare the documentation properly, thus preventing possible fraud or misleading promises of quick results.

Therefore, if your company’s structure and your professional trajectory within it meet the required criteria, applying for the L-1 visa can be a viable option to expand your operations to the U.S. However, each case is unique, and a detailed analysis of the specific requirements is crucial to proceed safely and within the law.

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.