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American Investment Visas

Investor Visas PC

Updated: Dec 22, 2024



Investing in the United States is not only a profitable venture, but it can also open the doors to residency. For foreign investors and entrepreneurs looking to establish themselves in the U.S., several visa options are available, each tailored to different needs and investment levels. Among the most popular are the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa, and the International Entrepreneur Parole (IEP) program.


In this article, we’ll explore these three key options and help you understand which visa might be right for you based on your investment plans and goals.


1. The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa


The E-2 Visa is designed for investors from countries that have a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. It allows individuals to enter and work in the U.S. based on a substantial investment in a U.S. business. 


Key Requirements:

  • Nationality: Only nationals from treaty countries are eligible for the E-2 visa.

  • Investment: There is no minimum amount set, but the investment must be "substantial." It should be enough to ensure the success of the enterprise.

  • Active Involvement: Investors must be coming to the U.S. to develop and direct the enterprise. Passive investments, such as buying stock, do not qualify.

  • Business Ownership: The investor must have at least 50% ownership of the business or possess operational control through a managerial role.

  

Benefits:

  • Non-Immigrant Visa: The E-2 is a non-immigrant visa, meaning it does not directly lead to a green card, but it can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business remains viable.

  • Spouse and Children: The spouse of an E-2 visa holder can apply for work authorization, and children under 21 can attend school.


Who It’s For:

The E-2 visa is ideal for entrepreneurs who want to run a business in the U.S. without committing to permanent residency right away. It offers flexibility and relatively quick processing compared to other visa categories.


2. The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa


The EB-5 Visa is an immigrant visa designed for investors seeking permanent residency (a green card) through a substantial financial investment in the U.S. economy. This visa is attractive to high-net-worth individuals looking for a direct path to U.S. citizenship.


Key Requirements:

  • Investment Amount: Investors must invest at least $1.05 million in a U.S. business or $800,000 in a targeted employment area (TEA), which includes rural areas or regions with high unemployment.

  • Job Creation: The investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.

  • New Business: The investment must be in a new commercial enterprise established after November 29, 1990, or in a troubled business that has been in existence for at least two years.

  

Benefits:

  • Green Card: The EB-5 visa leads directly to lawful permanent residency (green card) for the investor, their spouse, and unmarried children under 21.

  • No Nationality Restrictions: The EB-5 visa is open to investors from any country.

  • Potential Path to Citizenship: After holding a green card for five years, investors may apply for U.S. citizenship.


Who It’s For:

The EB-5 visa is ideal for individuals who have significant capital and wish to secure permanent residency in the U.S. It is especially popular among investors who are focused on high-value projects, such as real estate developments, in TEAs.


3. International Entrepreneur Parole (IEP) Program


The International Entrepreneur Parole (IEP) program is not a visa but a unique option for startup founders from around the world. It allows certain entrepreneurs to stay in the U.S. to build and scale their businesses.

Key Requirements:

  • Startup Ownership: The entrepreneur must have a significant ownership interest (at least 10%) in a U.S. startup that was formed within the past five years.

  • Funding: The startup must have received significant investment from qualified U.S. investors (at least $250,000) or government grants ($100,000) to demonstrate potential for rapid growth and job creation.

  • Entrepreneurial Role: The applicant must play an active and central role in the startup's operations.


Benefits:

  • Temporary Stay: While it does not provide permanent residency, the IEP allows entrepreneurs to stay in the U.S. for up to 30 months, with the option for an extension.

  • Spouse Work Authorization: The spouse of the IEP holder can apply for work authorization.


Who It’s For:

The IEP program is an excellent option for startup founders and entrepreneurs who may not meet the requirements of the E-2 or EB-5 but have a promising business that can contribute to the U.S. economy. It offers a unique opportunity for innovation-driven entrepreneurs to work and grow their startups in the U.S.


Choosing the Right Investment Visa


Each of these programs offers a unique opportunity for foreign investors and entrepreneurs. The right option for you will depend on factors such as your nationality, the amount of capital you have available for investment, and your long-term goals in the U.S.


  • If you're looking for a non-immigrant visa with flexibility and renewal options, the E-2 Visa may be your best bet.

  • If you are a high-net-worth individual seeking permanent residency, the EB-5 Visa provides a clear path to a green card.

  • If you're a startup founder with a promising venture but don't meet the other visa requirements, the IEP Program offers a unique opportunity to build your business in the U.S.


If you’re interested in applying for an investment visa, it’s essential to work with an experienced immigration attorney to guide you through the complexities of the application process. Our team is here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring your investment leads to success in the U.S. while securing your residency goals.


Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your American dream!

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