Step-by-step guide for transitioning from an L-1A visa to an EB-1C green card. Learn the business plan requirements, timeline, and common pitfalls.
From L-1A to EB-1C: Your Complete Green Card Transition Guide
The L-1A to EB-1C pathway is one of the most efficient routes to a U.S. green card for multinational managers and executives. But it requires careful planning — and your business plan plays a crucial role at both stages.
The L-1A visa provides temporary work authorization for up to 7 years as an intracompany transferee in a managerial or executive capacity. The EB-1C is the green card equivalent — permanent residency for multinational managers/executives.
Most attorneys recommend beginning EB-1C planning during the first year of L-1A status:
Year 1 (L-1A): Focus on establishing the U.S. office, hiring staff, and building the organizational structure 2. Year 2: Ensure the company has been "doing business" for at least one year — this is an EB-1C requirement 3. Year 2-3: File the I-140 (EB-1C petition) once the business meets all requirements