From L-1 to a Green Card: The EB-1C Multinational Manager Path

Immigration » L-1 visas » L-1 to a green card

L-1A managers and executives often qualify for the EB-1C category, which has no labor certification requirement. It can be a faster route than other employer-based categories for people from countries with long waits.

EB-1C requirements

The employer is a multinational company with a qualifying relationship to the foreign company where the person worked.
The person worked for the foreign company for at least one year in the three years before the transfer, in a managerial or executive role.
The U.S. position is managerial or executive.
The U.S. company has been doing business for at least one year.

Process in outline

The U.S. employer files Form I-140 with detailed evidence.
When the priority date is current, the worker and family file for adjustment of status or apply through consular processing. See Visa Bulletin.
The L-1 can usually be extended while the case is pending, subject to the seven-year limit.

Alternatives

EB-2 or EB-3 with PERM labor certification for employees who are not managers.
A national interest waiver for people with strong records.
An EB-1A for people with extraordinary ability.

Planning notes

Keep evidence of managerial duties from the start: organization charts, reports of who you supervise, budgets you control and decisions you make. The best EB-1C petitions are built from records created while the work is done.

L-1 visas guide

How our firm helps with L-1 visas

We test the qualifying relationship between the foreign and U.S. companies before filing.
We build the evidence of managerial or specialized-knowledge duties with clear job descriptions and organization charts.
We structure new-office petitions with a realistic plan for the first year.
We plan the move from L-1 to a green card through EB-1C or another category.

Situations we handle

Companies opening a U.S. branch
Specialized-knowledge employees
Extensions and amendments
L-1A managers seeking a green card

Why clients choose our firm

A Texas-licensed attorney serving immigration clients in all 50 states.
Russian-language service for clients and families.
Clear communication and updates through our client portal.
A full review of your history before anything is filed, so problems are caught early.
Organized filings and representation through interviews, requests for evidence and appeals.

Get help with l-1 visas

Every case has its own facts. Request a consultation and we will review your situation, options and timeline.

This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules, policies and fees change often. Last updated: November 2026.