As an attorney, I can provide you with information on the various visa options available to entrepreneurs who wish to start a business in the United States.
- E-2 Investor Visa: This visa allows non-US nationals to come to the US to invest in and operate a business. The investor must be from a treaty country with the US, and must invest a significant amount of capital into the new business venture. The applicant must also be the principal investor in the business.
- L-1A Visa: If the entrepreneur already operates a business overseas, they may be eligible for an L-1A visa. This visa allows them to transfer to the US to manage or work for a US branch of their existing foreign company. The entrepreneur must have worked for the foreign company for at least one continuous year out of the last three years.
- H-1B Visa: If the entrepreneur is highly skilled or has specialized knowledge, they may be eligible for an H-1B visa. This visa allows entrepreneurs to work in the US for a specific period of time in a specialized field, such as engineering or IT.
- EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program: This program requires the entrepreneur to invest at least $1 million into a new business venture in the US, which will create at least 10 full-time jobs for US workers. Alternatively, if the business is located in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), the investment amount can be reduced to $500,000.
It is important to note that each of these visa options has specific requirements and limitations. Additionally, the application process for each can be complex and time-consuming. Entrepreneurs seeking to start a new business in the US should consult with a licensed immigration attorney to determine which option is best for their specific business needs and circumstances.
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