7) Alternative Paths (Beyond the Usual Routes)

H-1B isn't the only way. Depending on your situation—multinational company experience, investment capital, or family connections—you might have faster or more reliable paths available. These alternatives are often overlooked but can be game-changers for the right person.

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Explore L-1 intracompany transfer (for multinational employees)

If you've worked for a multinational company abroad for at least 1 year, you might qualify for an L-1 visa to transfer to their U.S. office. L-1A is for managers and executives (up to 7 years in the U.S.), and it leads directly to EB-1C green card—no labor certification needed. L-1B is for employees with 'specialized knowledge' (up to 5 years). Here's a strategic move: if your company doesn't have a U.S. office yet, they can open one and bring you on an L-1 'new office' visa for 1 year to help establish it. L-1 has no lottery and no annual cap. If you're at a global company, ask HR about L-1 possibilities before defaulting to H-1B.