Business Immigration to the USA – Popular Programs
In this article, we will examine the primary types of immigrant and non-immigrant visas that are in high demand among foreign citizens. Not all of these visas are suitable for small manufacturing businesses, which our company helps establish in the United States.
Investment plays a significant role in the US economy. The US government attracts capital in various ways, including through a transparent tax system and a lenient immigration policy for investors. Currently, there are numerous immigration programs available, but we recommend choosing one of the most popular and sought-after options in the world. These include the E-2 and L-1. We will not discuss the EB-5 visa in this article, as it requires a significant investment that is not required for our manufacturing sector.
The US welcomes various ways to support the national economy and strongly supports initiatives from foreign investors. In particular, it allows for quick and easy visa acquisition. Let's consider the E-2 visa, which offers a very attractive program for immigrants. It is issued for two years and is easily extended. Therefore, with an E-2 visa, you can stay in the United States for as long as you need.
E-2 Visa Restrictions
Not everyone can obtain an E-2 visa. This program is available to citizens of countries with which the United States has an international agreement. Russia is not one of these countries, but we recommend obtaining a Caribbean passport first. Then, you can follow the standard procedure.
Visa Requirements:
There is no minimum investment requirement by law, but the investment must be substantial.
A registered business in the United States must be active and profitable for its owner.
The investor must personally manage the company.
Investments must come only from legal sources.
Benefits of the E-2 visa:
The required funds are significantly lower than those required for the EB-5 program.
The visa allows free entry and exit to and from the United States. The established business should generate a substantial income, and these funds can be accumulated to facilitate the conversion of an E-2 visa to an EB-5 visa and obtain a Green Card.
L-1 — Business Visa
The L-1 is ideal for those who haven't yet made a firm decision about moving to the United States but want to explore the possibilities, test the waters, and evaluate all the benefits of this immigration route.
This visa is suitable for business executives who have decided to open a branch office in the United States. Mandatory requirements:
Applicants for the L-1 visa must have at least one year of experience in a managerial position.
Proof of active financial activity of the established branch office must be provided.
Documents confirming the presence of a legal address must be provided.
Advantages of the L-1:
Expeditious petition review;
Free movement of the visa holder across U.S. borders;
The ability to submit documents for an L-1 visa for not only the branch office manager but also his or her family members;
Active participation in the entrepreneurial process;
Simple conditions for visa extensions or converting an L-1 visa to an EB-5 visa, for further consideration of a green card and citizenship.
We want to assure you that immigration to the US through business is possible! If you'd like to open one, we're always ready to help. We can provide you with the contact information of several immigration attorneys, or if you already work with an attorney, you can provide them with our phone number, and together we can create all the conditions for your successful immigration.