Legal Counsel for Entrepreneurs and Investors Seeking U.S. Business Visas
Entrepreneurs and investors can build businesses—and futures—in the United States. We help you invest with confidence and legal clarity.
Turn Your Investment Into a Visa Opportunity
Helping Foreign Nationals Navigate U.S. Business Immigration
The United States encourages international investment—and provides specific immigration pathways for entrepreneurs, treaty investors, and high-net-worth individuals. Whether you're launching a startup, opening a U.S. office of an overseas company, or investing in a commercial enterprise, securing the right visa is the first step to long-term success.
At Pedro L. Salim Law Firm, we help investors obtain E-2 Treaty Investor Visas, EB-5 Green Cards, and other employment-based options tied to ownership, capital contribution, or executive roles. Our firm works closely with entrepreneurs, business owners, and their families to prepare documentation, comply with regulations, and build immigration strategies that match business goals.
From initial investment structuring to consular interviews, we handle the legal complexities so you can focus on growth, operations, and residency.
Visas for Entrepreneurs, Executives, and International Investors
Tailored Strategies for Business Immigration Success
Investor visas aren’t one-size-fits-all. The right option depends on your nationality, the amount of money you’re investing, your role in the business, and whether you’re seeking permanent residency or a temporary stay.
We help clients understand and pursue:
- E-2 Treaty Investor Visas for nationals of qualifying countries who are investing a substantial amount into a U.S. business they control
- EB-5 Immigrant Investor Green Cards for individuals investing $800,000–$1.05M into new commercial enterprises that create jobs
- L-1 Intracompany Transfer Visas for business owners expanding their foreign company to a U.S. branch
- O-1 Visas for entrepreneurs with extraordinary ability in business, science, or the arts
- EB-2 National Interest Waivers for entrepreneurs whose work benefits the U.S. economy or public interest
- Business-related adjustment of status and green card processing
- Family visa planning for spouses and children of investors
We also advise on business entity formation, investment structures, commercial lease agreements, and long-term immigration planning—especially for those with overlapping family, employment, and business goals.
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
Allows nationals of treaty countries to invest in and direct a U.S. business. Requires “substantial investment,” active business involvement, and job creation potential.
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program
Offers a direct path to permanent residency through investment in new commercial enterprises. Must create at least 10 U.S. jobs and meet strict investment thresholds.
Used by owners and executives of overseas businesses to launch or transfer to a U.S. office. Can lead to EB-1C green card eligibility.
Waives the job offer requirement for entrepreneurs whose work benefits the national interest, such as in healthcare, education, or innovation.
If already in the U.S. legally, investors may apply to adjust their status without consular processing delays.
Investor visa holders may bring their spouse and children under 21. Some family members may also apply for work authorization.
What You’ll Need to Apply for an Investor Visa
Proving Investment, Control, and Job-Creation Potential
Investor visa cases are evidence-intensive. We ensure your business plan, financials, and immigration forms are detailed, compliant, and persuasive.
Key documents include:
- Proof of nationality (for treaty-based visas)
- Articles of incorporation and business formation paperwork
- Business plans showing investment amounts, job creation, and projected revenue
- Proof of control over funds and legal source of investment capital
- Lease agreements, vendor contracts, and proof of business activity
- Payroll plans or current employee records
- Investment transfers and bank documentation
- Evidence of management role (for E-2 or L-1A visas)
- Consular application documents (e.g., DS-160, DS-260) and interview preparation
We also help investors navigate related immigration concerns such as inadmissibility waivers, criminal records, or previous immigration violations that could complicate an application.
Investor Visa FAQs
Common Questions About Investing in the U.S. Immigration System
How much do I need to invest for an E-2 visa?
There’s no set minimum, but the investment must be substantial relative to the business. Typically, $100,000 or more is expected for most ventures.
Do I have to hire U.S. workers?
Yes—especially for EB-5. E-2 visas require showing future job creation. We help structure your business plan to meet these standards.
Can I get a green card through an investor visa?
Yes. E-2 is a nonimmigrant visa but can be combined with green card strategies like EB-5 or EB-2 NIW. We help plan long-term immigration goals.
What if my business fails after I get the visa?
USCIS evaluates good-faith investment and active business operations. If your business closes, your visa may be affected. We help explore backup options like adjustment of status or asylum.
Can my spouse work while I’m on an investor visa?
Yes. E-2 and L-1 spouses can apply for work authorization after entering the U.S. We handle Form I-765 filings for dependents.
