Which visa is best depends on several factors. One of the main differences between the two visas is that the L-1 is a nonimmigrant visa while the EB-5 is an immigrant visa. If the goal is to become a permanent U.S. resident, the EB-5 may be the better option. Timing is another consideration since EB-5 petitions have a backlog of more than a year. A number of additional factors are involved, and retaining an experienced immigration attorney is an excellent first step.