Skip to content
Ask a question
All posts

What type of visa should I apply for if I'm interested in starting a business in the United States?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

If you are interested in starting a business in the United States, you may be eligible for a variety of visas depending on your specific circumstances. Here are some of the most common visa options for entrepreneurs:

  1. E-2 Treaty Investor Visa:

    This visa is available for individuals from countries that have a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. To be eligible, you must own at least 50% of the business and make a substantial investment in the U.S. enterprise. The investment amount varies depending on the type of business, but generally, it must be large enough to support the business and the applicant's family.

  2. L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa:

    This visa is available to individuals who are transferring from a parent, branch, affiliate, or subsidiary of a foreign company to a U.S.-based counterpart. To be eligible, you must have worked for the foreign company for at least one year and be coming to the U.S. to work in a managerial or executive capacity.

  3. EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa:

    This visa provides a path to permanent residency for individuals who invest at least $1 million (or $500,000 in certain cases) in a U.S. business and create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. This option may be suitable for individuals who are looking to establish a new business that will create jobs in the U.S.

  4. H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa:

    While this visa is not specifically designed for entrepreneurs, it may be an option for individuals who have unique skills or expertise that are necessary for their business. To be eligible, you must have a bachelor's degree or higher and be coming to the U.S. to work in a specialty occupation.

It is important to note that each of these visas has its own eligibility requirements and application process, and the process can be complex and time-consuming. Additionally, there may be other visa options available depending on your specific circumstances.

If you are considering starting a business in the United States, it is highly recommended to consult with an experienced immigration attorney who can help you determine the best visa option for your situation and guide you through the application process.