L-1 Visa to Green Card: The Complete 2025 Guide

How to Transition from L-1A Executive to U.S. Permanent Residency

Can You Get a Green Card from an L-1 Visa?

Absolutely—and if you’re an executive or manager on an L-1A visa, your path to a U.S. green card can be both fast and PERM-free.

This guide walks you through the 2025 step-by-step process of moving from an L-1 visa to a green card under the EB-1C immigrant category, including eligibility, timelines, and strategic tips from a business immigration attorney.

What Is the L-1 Visa?

The L-1 Intracompany Transfer Visa allows international companies to transfer employees to their U.S. offices.
There are two types:

L-1A: For executives and managers (eligible for EB-1C green card)
L-1B: For specialized knowledge workers (not directly eligible for green card)

What Is the EB-1C Green Card?

The EB-1C immigrant visa is a green card category for multinational executives and managers. It’s designed for foreign companies expanding into the U.S., and is often used by L-1A visa holders.

Why EB-1C Is the Ideal Green Card Path for L-1A Visa Holders

No labor certification (PERM) required
Faster processing vs. EB-2 or EB-3
Allows spouse and children under 21 to also receive green cards
Can lead to U.S. citizenship in 5 years

L-1 to Green Card: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Maintain L-1A Compliance

To qualify, you must:

Have worked for your foreign company for 1 year within the last 3 years before transferring
Be working in the U.S. in an executive or managerial capacity
Be employed by a U.S. entity that is a subsidiary, branch, affiliate, or parent of your foreign company

Step 2: Prepare EB-1C Petition (Form I-140)

You or your employer must file an I-140 Immigrant Petition with USCIS.
You’ll need:

Organizational charts
Executive-level job descriptions
Evidence of company relationship and profitability
Business plans and staffing projections

Verdie can help craft a bulletproof package that meets USCIS expectations.

Step 3: Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) or Consular Processing

If you’re already in the U.S., you can file Form I-485 to adjust status once your I-140 is approved.
If outside the U.S., you’ll complete consular processing at your local U.S. embassy.

Step 4: Receive Your Green Card

Once approved, you and your dependents receive permanent residency (green cards). You’re free to live, work, and travel anywhere in the U.S.

Processing Times (2025 Update)

I-140 EB-1C Petition: 6–10 months (can vary by case)
Adjustment of Status or Consular Process: 6–12 months

Note: USCIS is currently prioritizing high-skilled petitions, including EB-1C.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Vague or non-executive job titles (e.g., “project coordinator”)
Lack of direct reports or U.S. staff
Insufficient proof of foreign company ownership or control
Weak evidence of day-to-day executive decision-making

Verdie Atienza, Esq. ensures your application checks all boxes.

Client Case Example

Okoro – Nigeria to Georgia
“Verdie helped us open a U.S. logistics office under L-1A, and after 1 year, we transitioned to EB-1C. Our green cards arrived in just over a year. His experience made all the difference.”

When Should You Start Planning the Green Card Process?

As early as your L-1A visa year one
Especially if you plan to stay beyond 7 years (max stay on L-1A)
If your spouse and children need long-term residency options

Verdie’s Pro Tip

“Start preparing your green card petition while still on your L-1 visa. Don’t wait until your final year. USCIS expects you to show long-term business viability and real executive leadership.”

Start Your Green Card Journey with Confidence

Going from an L-1 visa to a green card can be straightforward—with the right strategy. Verdie Atienza Immigration Solutions is here to walk you through every step with clarity, precision, and personalized support.