Read the general pathway comparison overview
A Three Rivers applicant should identify actual operations and the source of authority under each proposal rather than rely on registration documents alone.
Test the company-transfer requirements
L-1 needs qualifying foreign employment, organizations and managerial/executive or specialized-knowledge duties. An older incorporated entity does not automatically prove an established operating office.
Test the investor requirements
E-2 needs at least 50% relevant treaty-country national ownership, development and direction, substantial at-risk funds with lawful source/path, and a real nonmarginal enterprise. Company resources must be traced through the actual funding arrangement.
Keep the proposed work specific
Identify the employer, enterprise and effective rights. Authorization under one arrangement is not unrestricted permission to perform work for another.
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.