L-1 to Green Card: EB-1C and Other Routes
How an L-1 holder gets a green card: the EB-1C category for multinational managers and executives, who files, and the options for L-1B specialized knowledge employees.
Page reviewed October 17, 2026.
What it is
The L-1 is a dual-intent category, so an L-1 holder can pursue a green card while in status.
Multinational executives and managers can qualify for the EB-1C category, where the U.S. employer files Form I-140 and no labor certification is needed. L-1B specialized knowledge employees do not qualify under EB-1C on that basis and usually look at other employment-based routes.
EB-1C for multinational managers and executives
The first preference employment-based category includes multinational executives and managers. The U.S. employer files Form I-140 and must show a continuing ability to pay the offered wage. The category does not require a labor certification. The spouse and unmarried children under 21 may be eligible to apply for immigrant status with the principal.
How it connects to the L-1A
- The L-1A and the EB-1C rely on a similar executive or managerial role and a multinational relationship, so evidence often overlaps.
- The L-1A has a seven-year limit, so it is worth planning the green card before the limit is reached.
For L-1B employees
A specialized knowledge employee does not qualify under EB-1C on that basis. Other employment-based categories, some of which need a labor certification, may apply depending on the person's role, education and experience.
Related guides
Pricing
L-1 pricing
$10,000
flat fee, any visa
What the fee includes
- Eligibility strategy mapped to the requirements of your visa
- Support, expert and reference letters drafted and coordinated for you
- The full legal brief and every exhibit, prepared and filed
- RFE responses included at no additional cost
- Real-time updates in English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese
- One team from first call to approval. No handoffs.
- If USCIS denies a petition Lando filed, Lando refunds its fee. Terms apply.
USCIS government filing fees are separate and paid directly to USCIS.
Why Lando
How Lando compares
A plain comparison with the way immigration petitions are commonly handled. Terms vary by firm, so check any provider's terms before you hire.
Price
Lando$10,000 flat fee per visa, published on the visa pages.
Commonly elsewhereOften billed hourly or by stage, so the total can change as the case grows.
Request for Evidence
LandoResponses are included at no extra cost.
Commonly elsewhereSometimes charged separately. Ask before you hire.
If USCIS denies
LandoLando refunds its fee for a petition it filed. Terms apply.
Commonly elsewhereNot always offered. Ask what is refunded.
Retainer
LandoNo retainer to begin, and no surprise invoices later.
Commonly elsewhereA retainer paid up front is common.
Who does the work
LandoOne team from first call to decision. Petitions are prepared in coordination with licensed U.S. immigration attorneys.
Commonly elsewhereVaries. Ask who will work on your file.
Languages
LandoCase updates in English, French, Spanish or Portuguese.
Commonly elsewhereVaries by firm.
Legal advice
LandoLando is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
Commonly elsewhereA law firm can give you legal advice and represent you directly.
General comparison, not a statement about any named firm. USCIS fees are separate and are paid directly to USCIS. No one can promise a USCIS decision.
How it works
From first call to filed petition
1. Evaluation
You get an honest answer.
We review your situation on a 15-minute call and tell you honestly whether the visa fits and what would make the case stronger. No retainer. No commitment.
2. Strategy
You know exactly what your case looks like.
We map which company documents and evidence prove each requirement, and what is still missing. You see the full picture before we file anything.
3. Preparation
Your petition is built without you lifting a finger.
Our team drafts the support letters and the legal brief, curates every exhibit, and reviews the full petition before it leaves our hands. You approve. We file.
4. Filing
Filed. You get on with your life.
Your petition is filed at USCIS and we manage every communication from there. We handle any RFE at no extra charge.
Common questions
Can an L-1 holder apply for a green card?
Yes. The L-1 is a dual-intent category, so pursuing a green card does not undermine the L-1 status.
What is EB-1C?
The employment-based first preference category for multinational executives and managers. The U.S. employer files Form I-140.
Does EB-1C need a labor certification?
No.
Can an L-1B employee use EB-1C?
Not on the basis of specialized knowledge. EB-1C is for executives and managers. Other categories may apply.
Do I need to wait until the L-1 expires?
No. Many people file while holding L-1A status, ahead of the seven-year limit.
Is Lando a law firm?
No. Lando is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Petitions are prepared in coordination with licensed U.S. immigration attorneys. For advice about your own situation, speak to a licensed immigration attorney.
Sources
Lando is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Petitions are prepared in coordination with licensed U.S. immigration attorneys.