What types of visas are available for entrepreneurs looking to start a business in the United States?
As a lawyer, I can inform you that there are several types of visas available for entrepreneurs looking to start a business in the United States. Some of these visa categories include:
- E-2 Visa: This visa is for entrepreneurs from countries that have a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. The investor must invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business and must have at least 50% ownership or operational control of the business.
- L-1A Visa: This visa is for entrepreneurs who own a business in their home country and want to expand it to the United States. The entrepreneur must either be a manager or executive of the company and have worked for the company for at least one year in the past three years.
- H-1B Visa: This visa is for entrepreneurs who have specialized knowledge and skills in a particular field. The entrepreneur must have at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience and must be sponsored by a U.S. employer.
- O-1 Visa: This visa is for entrepreneurs who possess extraordinary ability in science, business, athletics, education or the arts. The entrepreneur must provide extensive evidence to demonstrate this extraordinary ability.
- EB-5 Visa: This visa is for entrepreneurs who want to invest at least $900,000 to create or save at least 10 jobs in the United States. The entrepreneur must also provide evidence that the investment comes from a credible source of funds.
It is important to note that each visa category has specific requirements and limitations. Additionally, the application process can be cumbersome and time-consuming, and each application must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the relevant authorities. Therefore, it is advisable to seek legal guidance from a licensed attorney who specializes in immigration law to determine which visa category is appropriate and to help prepare the visa application.