No-Investment Immigration Pathways When Starting New U.S. Businesses
Each year, the United States attracts many foreign entrepreneurs who want to start new businesses in the Land of the Free. However, many of these individuals might struggle to come up with the necessary cash for so-called “investor visas.” As their name implies, these visas require you to invest a certain amount of money in the United States before starting your new business. Is there another way to start a new business in the United States without these investment requirements? This is a question you might want to ask your Palm Beach County immigration lawyer.
The L-1A Visa Has No Investment Requirements
In contrast to the EB-5 investor visa, the L-1A visa has no investment requirements. Known as the “intracompany transferee” program, this immigration pathway is specifically designed for those who want to create new businesses in the United States.
However, there are a few caveats to consider. First of all, you can only take advantage of this program if you already have a functioning business in your home nation. The program is intended for people who want to expand existing businesses into the United States, and not for those who want to start completely new businesses once they arrive in the country.
For example, you might have a successful tech company in your home nation. Perhaps you have a business selling digital or consulting services. Maybe you have a business repairing automobiles. Whatever the case may be, you can choose to expand your operation into the United States and transfer yourself as a “manager” to this new U.S.-based office.
First, you’ll need to secure physical premises for your new branch/subsidiary in the United States. Then, you’ll need to travel to the United States to begin operations. If these steps are successful, you should be able to secure an L-1A visa for yourself. You may also have the right to bring your family to the United States. If you’re setting up a new office, your visa is only valid for one year. However, you can continue to renew this visa in two-year increments, up to a maximum of seven years. During these seven years, you can become a citizen.
Consider an H-1B Visa
If you have a bachelor’s degree or higher, you might also consider entering the United States under an H-1B visa. While this visa requires you to work as an employee (and not as an entrepreneur), there is nothing stopping you from creating a business in the United States during your free time. There are no citizenship requirements for creating an LLC or corporation in Florida.
Can a Palm Beach County Immigration Lawyer Help Me?
A Palm Beach County immigration lawyer may be able to help you explore various strategies when planning out your new business in the United States. Although the L-1A visa is a viable option in many situations, the most appropriate immigration pathway depends on your unique circumstances. The most obvious way to plan out your next move is to discuss these circumstances with a lawyer. Contact The Devore Law Group for more information.
Sources:
uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/l-1a-intracompany-transferee-executive-or-manager
uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/h-1b-specialty-occupations
