Is it mandatory to have direct subordinates for the L-1A?

A common question about the L-1A is whether the applicant must necessarily have a team of direct reports. The short answer is that it is not an absolute requirement: the focus of the category is on the nature of the position, not on the number of people who report to you.

The L-1A is intended for those who perform executive or managerial functions at a company transferred to a branch, affiliate, or subsidiary in the United States. The central point is demonstrating real authority: the capacity to make significant decisions, set direction, and organize work.

The evaluation typically considers the totality of the evidence, for example:

• The level of autonomy and the significance of the decisions under your responsibility.
• The management of an essential function or department, which may qualify as functional management even without a large direct team.
• Supervision of professionals, whether directly or indirectly, in accordance with the company’s structure.

Because what matters is the substance of the role rather than any single isolated criterion, it is advisable to organize the documentation carefully and, if possible, seek specialized guidance to present the case consistently.

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.