In today’s competitive global market, many business owners seek to expand their ventures internationally, including moving into the United States. Our client, Sofia, successfully navigated this journey with the help of our team, transforming her Canadian business’s U.S. presence into a thriving operation and obtaining permanent residency for her family in the process.
Background: Expanding a Canadian Social Work Business to the U.S.
Sofia is an established social work professional with a successful business in Canada. Recognizing the opportunity to expand her services to the U.S. market, Sofia made the strategic decision to open a new office in the United States. To manage operations and oversee the growth of the U.S. branch, Sofia applied for an L-1A visa, which is designed for executives and managers transferring to the U.S. to oversee affiliated entities.
Step 1: L-1A Visa Approval for Sofia’s U.S. Office
The initial goal was to establish Sofia’s presence in the U.S. by managing the new office, setting up operations, and hiring essential staff. Our team worked with Sofia to prepare and submit her L-1A application, demonstrating her qualifications and the necessity of her role in the newly established U.S. office. Thanks to thorough preparation, Sofia’s L-1A visa was approved, allowing her to legally work in the U.S. and develop her business further. For a year, Sofia successfully led her U.S. team and established a strong foundation for the business.
Step 2: L-1A Renewal for Continued Growth
After the initial year, Sofia’s U.S. business had grown significantly, now employing multiple staff members and showing promising signs of sustainability and expansion. Sofia was ready to continue her work, so we prepared and submitted her L-1A renewal. Given her business’s growth and positive impact, the renewal was smoothly approved.
Step 3: Transitioning to a Green Card through the EB-1C Category
As her business continued to grow, Sofia recognized that spending most of her time in the U.S. would benefit her business and allow her to oversee operations more closely. This realization led Sofia to seek permanent residency in the U.S. through the EB-1C category, designed for multinational executives and managers, allowing her to obtain a Green Card based on her position in the U.S. office. Our team helped Sofia compile the necessary evidence for the EB-1C petition, detailing her critical role and the contributions of her U.S. office. Her petition was approved, clearing the way for her to apply for an adjustment of status.
Step 4: Adjustment of Status for Sofia and Her Family
With her EB-1C petition approved, Sofia could now apply for her Green Card and include her family members in the application. We submitted applications for Sofia, her husband, and her daughter to adjust their status, which were ultimately approved. The entire family received Green Cards, paving the way for their eventual move to the U.S.
Step 5: Applying for Reentry Permits
Though Sofia and her husband are currently balancing responsibilities in both the U.S. and Canada, they plan to make the U.S. their permanent home in the coming years. To maintain their status while finalizing business and personal affairs in Canada, we helped Sofia’s family secure reentry permits, allowing them to preserve their Green Cards despite prolonged stays outside the U.S.
Client Feedback
Sofia’s journey reflects the attention to detail, expertise, and dedication we bring to every case. Her feedback underscores our commitment to client satisfaction:
“Thank you for your hard work and diligence. I can’t express enough how much gratitude I have for you and your team. It is very much appreciated. Thank you so much.”
Conclusion
This exemplifies how, with strategic planning and expert guidance, business professionals can expand internationally and obtain U.S. residency. Starting with the L-1A visa, Sofia transitioned through an EB-1C petition and achieved permanent residency, with reentry permits enabling her family’s gradual move.
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We Can Help!
If you have questions regarding L1A Visa or Green card, we invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
