Business Ownership and Immigration Opportunities

One of the best things you can do if you want to immigrate to the United States is own a business, especially if you own a very successful one.

Many U.S. immigration options are tied to business ownership. So, for example,

1. Depending on your nationality, if you have a business and conduct most of your trade with the United States, you might qualify for a treaty trader visa.
2. If invest a substantial amount in a legitimate U.S. enterprise and enter the U.S. to develop and direct the business, you could qualify for a treaty investor visa. This also depends on your nationality.
3. If you have been working in a managerial or executive position for a company abroad and you will be transferred to work a managerial or executive position, you may qualify for a intracompany visa.
4. Related to #3 above if you have been working in a managerial or executive position for a company abroad and you plan to establish a new office in the United States, you may also qualify for a visa.
5. If your company has attained exceptional achievements, such as industry awards, high revenue, media recognition, or significant contributions to their field you may qualify for an O-1A or EB-1A visa.
6. If you want to use your business as an investment vehicle, you could qualify for an EB-5 visa. Yes, the cost is prohibitively expensive for most people. But if your business becomes successful enough, you could qualify.
7. If you open a business and you can establish that it substantial merit, national importance and you are the  person is well positioned to advance the proposed endeavor, you may qualify for an EB-2 National Interest Waiver

Keep in mind, these are extremely general description of the above options. Due to space concerns, I cannot discuss each option in detail.

But, without a doubt, business ownership creates a lot of new immigration opportunities that would not exist previously.

If you own a business and want to find out what immigration options are available to you, do not hesitate to send me an email at ejedwards@edwardslegalservices.com

Last Updated on March 1, 2025 by Ernest J. Edwards

Ernest J. Edwards Immigration Lawyer

Ernest J. Edwards is an immigration lawyer focused on providing guidance for employers, professionals and families aimed at assisting them to work, visit and immigrate to the United States.

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