What are the visa options for someone who wants to come to the United States to start a business?

As an attorney, I can advise that there are several visa options for individuals who want to come to the United States to start a business. These options include:

1. E-2 Investor Visa: This visa is available to individuals from treaty countries who are seeking to invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business. The investment should be significant enough that it demonstrates the investor's commitment to the success of the business. This visa is valid for up to two years initially but can be extended indefinitely as long as the investor remains actively engaged in the business.
2. L-1 Intra-Company Transfer Visa: This visa is available to individuals who are moving to the United States to work for a company that has a qualifying relationship with a foreign company. The individual must have been continuously employed by the foreign company for at least one year within the three years preceding the application and should be transferred to a U.S. subsidiary, branch, or affiliate of the foreign company. This visa is initially valid for up to three years but can be extended for up to seven years for managers and executives and up to five years for specialized knowledge employees.
3. O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa: This visa is available to individuals who have extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, business, education, or athletics. To qualify for this visa, the individual must be able to demonstrate extraordinary ability through sustained national or international acclaim and must have received a major award in their field or meet other criteria. This visa is initially valid for up to three years but can be extended indefinitely as long as the individual continues to demonstrate extraordinary ability.

It is important to note that each of these visa options has specific requirements that must be met, and the application process can be complex. Additionally, there may be other visa options available depending on the individual's unique circumstances. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with an experienced immigration attorney who can provide personalized guidance and advice on the best visa option based on the individual's specific goals and circumstances.

In summary, for individuals who want to come to the United States to start a business, there are several visa options available, including the E-2 Investor Visa, L-1 Intra-Company Transfer Visa, and O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa. It is important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney to determine the best visa option for your specific circumstances, as each visa option has specific requirements that must be met.