Foreign nationals interested in starting a business or purchasing a business in the United States may be eligible for a visa that allows them to live and operate their business in the Country. The most common include the E-2 visa, available to citizens of specific treaty countries, or the EB-5 visa.
Foreign nationals who own a business abroad may also have the option of starting a branch of their business in the United States and be eligible to obtain a visa to reside in the United States. There may also be options for professionals seeking employment in the United States.
If you or a loved one is seeking to start or purchase a business in the United States or is interested in working in the United States, contact the Dominguez Law Firm today. We are happy to discuss your case and determine the best options for you during your consultation.
The E-2 visa enables individuals from treaty countries to reside and work in the U.S. while managing a business in which they have made a substantial investment. It is often used by those launching a new company or purchasing an existing one.
Working with an investor visa lawyer early in the process can help avoid missteps that could lead to delays. This visa supports business growth while allowing the investor to remain lawfully in the country during day-to-day operations.
To qualify, the investor must show that the funds are committed, the business is active rather than passive, and the investment is sufficient to support the operation. The company must also generate an adequate income for the investor and their family.
Although the E-2 visa does not lead directly to permanent residency, it can be renewed repeatedly as long as the visa requirements are met. Applicants must also maintain nonimmigrant intent during their stay.
The E-2 visa application process demands thorough preparation. USCIS or the U.S. consulate will carefully review your business plan, financial records, and operational structure. Specific criteria include:
We guide clients through each step of the process, including treaty eligibility, business planning, and gathering the necessary evidence. We know what immigration officers look for and how to present a strong application.
We assist clients not only with initial E-2 filings but also with renewals. As long as the business remains operational and compliant, the E-2 visa can be extended. We help ensure your renewal filings are adequately prepared, submitted on time, and meet current standards under U.S. immigration guidelines. Maintaining timely renewals is essential to avoid interruptions in your legal status or business operations.
E-2 status may also apply to eligible family members. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can request derivative visas. Spouses may apply for work authorization, allowing them to pursue employment in the U.S. We guide families through these steps, helping them stay together and maintain lawful status throughout the process. Our goal is to make sure every part of your household remains protected under the visa.
Pursuing an E-2 visa requires thorough preparation, meticulous organization, and a clear understanding of the immigration requirements. From investment documentation to business planning, each part of the process must be handled carefully to avoid delays or denials.
At Dominguez Law Firm, PLLC, we work with investors across Florida who are seeking to live and work in the U.S. through business ownership. We take the time to understand your goals, and our team is here to support you at every stage as your trusted investor visa lawyer in Florida.
If you’re ready to begin, schedule a consultation today. You can also learn more about our firm or review our complete list of immigration services.
This depends on what type of visa you are eligible or is best for you. Some investor visas such as the E-2 only require a “substantial investment” which may be significantly less than visas such as an EB-5 that require a specific investment of $500,000 or $1,000,000.
This again varies on the type of visa. Some visas such as the E-2 may receive a response relatively quickly but others such as Employment Based visas take significantly longer.
Generally, for the majority of Investor or Employment Based visas the main applicant’s spouse and children are able to immigrate with them as a derivative. However, this again may depend on the type of visa.
No. The E-2 visa is a nonimmigrant category and does not provide a direct path to permanent residency. However, other visa options may be available depending on your specific situation.
There is no fixed amount, but the investment must be significant enough to support the business’s success. Typically, this amount depends on the nature and size of the company.
No. You can either start a new enterprise or purchase an existing one, as long as you actively manage the business and meet all visa requirements. An investor visa lawyer can help determine which option is most practical for your case.
Yes. A spouse of an E-2 visa holder can apply for work authorization and, once approved, may work for any employer in the United States.