If you're looking to invest in the U.S. or start a business in the country, obtaining a U.S. Business or Investor’s Visa is an essential first step. These visas are designed to help foreign nationals who want to contribute to the U.S. economy through investment or by creating job opportunities. At the law office of Alena Shautsova, our experienced New York immigration attorneys specialize in helping entrepreneurs and investors navigate the complex U.S. immigration process for business or investor visas.

What is a U.S. Business or Investor's Visa?

A U.S. Business or Investor’s Visa allows foreign nationals to enter and stay in the U.S. with the intention of managing or investing in a business. There are several types of U.S. visas available for this purpose, including the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa, and the L-1 Visa for Intracompany Transferees. These visas offer unique benefits depending on the specific nature of the investment or business venture.

Types of U.S. Business or Investor’s Visas

1. E-2 Treaty Investor Visa

   The E-2 Visa is for individuals who are nationals of a country that has a treaty of commerce and navigation with the U.S. It is available to foreign nationals who are investing a significant amount of capital in a U.S. business. The business must be an active, for-profit enterprise that will generate enough income to support the investor and their family.

   • Eligibility Requirements for the E-2 Visa:

     • The applicant must be a citizen of a country with an E-2 treaty agreement with the U.S.

     • The investor must invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business (typically at least $100,000).

     • The business must be real and operating (not just a passive investment).

     • The investor must have control of the investment and be actively involved in the business.

2. EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa

   The EB-5 Visa is an immigrant visa for foreign nationals who are willing to invest a substantial amount of money in a new commercial enterprise that creates jobs for U.S. workers. It provides a path to a green card, making it one of the most attractive options for high-net-worth individuals.

   • Eligibility Requirements for the EB-5 Visa:

     • The investor must invest at least $1 million in a U.S. business. In targeted employment areas (TEA), the required investment may be reduced to $500,000.

     • The investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.

     • The business must be a new commercial enterprise or a significant expansion of an existing business.

3. L-1 Visa for Intracompany Transferees

   The L-1 Visa allows foreign businesses to transfer executives, managers, or employees with specialized knowledge to their U.S. offices. This is particularly useful for multinational companies looking to expand operations in the U.S.

   • Eligibility Requirements for the L-1 Visa:

     • The applicant must have been employed by the foreign company for at least one year in the last three years.

     • The foreign company must have a parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch office in the U.S.

     • The applicant must be transferring to a U.S. office in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge capacity.

4. Other Business and Investor Visa Options

   In addition to the main visa categories above, there are other options for business owners and investors, including the B-1 Business Visitor Visa for short-term business visits and the O-1 Visa for individuals with extraordinary abilities in their field. Each visa has specific requirements, so it’s essential to understand which one is right for your situation.

How to Apply for a U.S. Business or Investor’s Visa

1. Choose the Right Visa Category
   The first step in applying for a U.S. Business or Investor's Visa is to determine which visa category best fits your situation. Whether you're looking to invest in a business or expand your company in the U.S., you’ll need to select the appropriate visa type, such as the E-2, EB-5, or L-1 visa.

2. Prepare the Necessary Documentation
   Each visa category requires specific documentation. For instance, an E-2 visa application requires proof of nationality, proof of the investment, and a detailed business plan. The EB-5 visa requires proof of the investment amount and evidence that the investment will create jobs. It’s important to gather all the required documents before starting the application process.

3. File the Visa Petition
   Once you’ve determined your eligibility and gathered the necessary documentation, the next step is to file your visa petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or through a U.S. consulate if applying from abroad.

4. Attend the Visa Interview
   After submitting your petition, you may be required to attend a visa interview. During the interview, a U.S. consular officer will assess your qualifications and investment plans. It’s important to be well-prepared to answer questions about your business or investment plans, as well as any other relevant information.

5. Wait for Approval
   After the interview, your application will be processed. The approval timeline can vary depending on the visa category and the complexity of your case. If your application is approved, you will receive your visa, allowing you to enter the U.S. to pursue your business or investment goals.

Why Choose Our U.S. Immigration Lawyers?

At the law office of Alena Shautsova, our New York immigration attorneys specialize in helping business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors navigate the U.S. immigration process. We offer comprehensive legal services for business and investor visa applicants, from choosing the right visa to preparing your application and attending interviews.

Our team will work closely with you to ensure that your visa application is strong, complete, and submitted on time. Whether you are investing in a new venture or expanding your existing business in the U.S., we are here to guide you through every step of the process.

Contact Our U.S. Business and Investor Visa Attorneys Today

If you are looking to obtain a U.S. Business or Investor’s Visa, contact our experienced immigration lawyers in New York for a consultation. We are dedicated to providing personalized legal services to help you achieve your U.S. immigration goals.

Call 347-465-5566 or fill out our contact form to get started with your U.S. Business or Investor Visa application today.

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The visa process was clear and straightforward thanks to the helpful guidance provided.

J. Lee

★★★★★