Is it possible to obtain an L-1 to work in partnership with another company?

The L-1 visa was created to facilitate the transfer of employees between companies that are part of the same corporate group, meaning they have an internal legal relationship such as subsidiaries, affiliates, or parent companies. This visa category is not intended for professionals who aim to work in partnership with another company independently or to establish a business collaboration without an existing corporate link.

To qualify for the L-1 visa, it is necessary to prove that the applicant worked, for a determined period, in a company abroad that holds a qualified relationship with the entity that will receive them in the United States. If the partnership with another company does not involve this internal structure – for example, if the companies are only business partners without ownership, control, or formal interdependency ties – it will not be possible to use the L-1 as a means of entry to work in the United States.

For this reason, it is essential that any project or agreement involving international mobility is structured according to United States immigration rules. It is recommended to seek detailed information from official sources, as well as consult professionals specialized in immigration to avoid misunderstandings, scams, or unfounded promises that often circulate in marketing campaigns.

In summary, for the L-1 visa to be a viable option, it is imperative that there is a recognized internal relationship between the foreign company and the United States unit. If the intention is to work in partnership with another company without this corporate structure, other visa alternatives will likely be necessary, which must be carefully analyzed, always in compliance with the current immigration legislation.

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.