L1 Visa through the Franchise Model

A franchise investment in the United States can qualify a foreign national for an L1 or even an E2 work visa. One of the driving factors to invest in a franchise is that it is tried and tested and affords some level of predictability.

The L-1A Intracompany Transferee Executive or Manager visa is specifically designed for foreign nationals who are transferring to the U.S. to manage a new or existing U.S. office of a foreign company. The franchise model offers a pre-established framework that can significantly reduce the 'new office' hurdles typically associated with L-1 applications.

A foreign national/franchisee can leverage the franchisor’s business network, resources and technical know-how and potentially, mitigate risk. This strong support system, including detailed business plans and operational guidance, helps demonstrate to USCIS that the new U.S. enterprise will be financially viable and active, which is a key requirement for the L-1 visa.

For foreign entrepreneurs and business owners seeking to start a business in the U.S. intended to support their L1 visa, the franchise route provides a powerful, demonstrable path to meeting the required managerial or executive function within a qualifying organization. It reduces the need for the applicant to create a complex business structure from scratch, focusing instead on execution and management. We always advise a thorough review of the franchise agreement and the franchisor’s financial health to ensure the investment fully supports the visa criteria.