Read the general pathway comparison overview
Working for a related organization and investing in an enterprise require different evidence. Describe the applicant’s actual role and money rather than assuming company growth makes both routes interchangeable.
Identify the company-transfer account
Hypothetical example: an employee is offered a related-company assignment while discussing a personal investment. L-1 requires qualifying organizations, relevant foreign employment and an eligible managerial, executive or specialized-knowledge role. A planned capital contribution does not replace the employment requirements.
Identify the treaty-investment account
E-2 requires qualifying treaty nationality, generally at least 50% relevant treaty-national enterprise ownership, substantial lawful capital committed at risk and a real nonmarginal enterprise the principal develops and directs. An employment title does not establish the investor’s actual control.
Explain which arrangement would be pursued
Keep the company’s resources, personal funds and the applicant’s duties distinct. Do not combine different entities’ favorable facts into a single description unsupported by the agreements. Individual permission must support the activity ultimately undertaken.
What else is on your mind?
Does being a business owner or director qualify me for L-1A?What employment history should an L-1 transfer review cover?What makes a new-office L-1A case different?How should an owner compare L-1 and E-2?Editorial source review: 2026-09-07. General preparation guidance, not an individual assessment.