Business & Investor Visa
Obtaining a business or investor visa allows you to live and work in the United States for your business activities. There are different visa options available depending on your investment, company role, or professional background.
Paths to Business and Investor Visas
Many business professionals spend extended periods in the United States while conducting company operations. For individuals visiting primarily for business, applying for citizenship or permanent residency is usually not practical. In these cases, it is often better to pursue a business or investor visa.
There are several types of business visas, each with unique requirements. Our immigration attorneys at Behkar Law can review your situation and guide you toward the visa that best fits your needs. We regularly assist clients with E-2, L-1, and EB-5 visas, among others.
Schedule a free initial consultation with one of our investor visa attorneys to discuss your eligibility and next steps.
UNDERSTANDING THE E-2 VISA: BUSINESS OWNERSHIP IN THE U.S.
The E-2 visa is designed for investors who want to own and operate a business in the United States. Unlike other visas that only allow business travel, the E-2 visa permits active management of a small business or franchise. E-2 visas are generally issued for two to five years but can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business generates sufficient income to support the investor and their family.
Key benefits of an E-2 visa include:
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Ownership and operation of a U.S. business
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Investment in real estate or commercial ventures
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Ability to remain in the U.S. for the duration of the investment
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Bringing a spouse and children under 21
Although the E-2 is a nonimmigrant visa, it can serve as a stepping stone to other avenues of permanent residence and eventual citizenship.
STEPS TO APPLY FOR AN INVESTOR VISA
Applicants seeking an E-2 visa typically follow these steps:
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Complete and submit Form DS-160, the Nonimmigrant Visa Application.
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If applicable, submit a Treaty Trader or Treaty Investor application.
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Schedule an interview at the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy.
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Attend the interview with all accompanying family members, if applicable. Provide any additional documentation requested by officials.
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Receive a decision on your application.
Our attorneys can help determine which forms and steps are necessary for your specific case and ensure the application is completed correctly.
EXPLORING L-1 AND EB-5 VISAS
In addition to the E-2 visa, other business and investor visas may be suitable depending on your situation:
L-1 Visa – Allows employees of multinational companies to work in the U.S. in managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge roles. L-1 visa holders may also eventually pursue permanent residence.
EB-5 Visa – Designed for individuals who invest at least $1 million (or a lower amount in targeted employment areas) in a U.S. business that creates at least 10 full-time jobs. Investment can be direct or through approved intermediaries, and it can serve as a path to permanent residence and eventual citizenship.
THE TRUMP GOLD CARD
The Trump Gold Card is a new immigration program offering wealthy individuals and companies an expedited path to U.S. permanent residency through a significant financial contribution. Unlike traditional visas, the Trump Gold Card requires no job creation or business management, making it a faster route for those able to invest.
Key benefits of the Trump Gold Card include:
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Permanent U.S. Residency for individuals and their families.
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Investment Requirement: A $1 million contribution for individuals or $2 million for corporations sponsoring employees.
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Path to Citizenship: Gold Card holders can eventually apply for U.S. citizenship.
