The client is the head of operations at a Chinese cross-border e-commerce company and has long been responsible for U.S. market expansion, team management, and business strategy. As the company planned to expand its U.S. business, it arranged for the client to go to the United States to lead the overall operations of its U.S. subsidiary, applying on an L-1A.

The core of the case was proving that the relationship between the Chinese and U.S. companies met the "qualifying relationship" requirement, and clearly distinguishing the client's managerial duties at the Chinese company from simple business execution.

We presented evidence on the Chinese company's management structure, the team reporting to the client, and the client's decision-making authority. Combined with the U.S. company's organizational plan, this showed that after the transfer the client would still perform a managerial function rather than front-line business execution.

L-1A approved. The client moved to the United States to lead the U.S. team and business development.