Starting a business in the United States is not only a powerful financial opportunity it can also be a legitimate pathway to living in the U.S. legally. Many foreign entrepreneurs ask the same question: Can I get a U.S. visa by launching or buying a business?
The answer is yes, but it requires more than just a great idea. You need the right visa, a lawful source of funds, a compliant business structure, and a strategy that aligns with U.S. immigration law.
At Legal Reliance, we help entrepreneurs and investors turn their business plans into legally approved U.S. visa cases. In this guide, we break down the best visa options available and what it takes to qualify.
1. E-2 Visa: The Entrepreneur’s Path to the U.S.
The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is one of the most popular options for business owners from treaty countries. It allows you to invest in or start a business and live in the U.S. to direct and develop it.
Basic requirements:
- You must be a citizen of a U.S. treaty country
- You must invest a substantial amount of capital (often $80,000 or more)
- The business must be real, active, and profit-driven
- You must own at least 50% and play a controlling role
- The funds must come from a lawful source and be at risk
Ideal for: Small business owners, franchise investors, consultants, and online business operators with U.S.-based operations.
2. L-1 Visa: Expand Your Foreign Business into the U.S.
The L-1 visa is designed for foreign business owners who want to open a branch, affiliate, or subsidiary in the U.S. It allows you to transfer yourself or key employees to manage the new entity.
Requirements:
- You must have worked for the foreign business for at least 1 year
- The U.S. business must be linked to the foreign business
- The new office must be viable and have a plan for growth
- Suitable for executives, managers, or specialized knowledge staff
Ideal for: Entrepreneurs already running a successful business outside the U.S. looking to expand operations.
3. EB-5 Visa: Direct Path to a Green Card
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program allows you to obtain a green card through a larger business investment that creates U.S. jobs.
Requirements:
- Invest $800,000 in a targeted employment area or $1,050,000 otherwise
- Create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers
- Prove the funds are from a lawful source
- Meet all USCIS compliance and reporting standards
Ideal for: High-net-worth individuals looking for a permanent move and willing to make a long-term investment.
4. International Entrepreneur Parole (IEP)
IEP is a newer option that allows startup founders to live and work in the U.S. temporarily if their company shows significant potential for growth and funding.
Key points:
- Must have raised capital from qualified U.S. investors
- Must play a central and active role in the business
- Not a visa, but a parole status more limited and subject to renewal
Ideal for: Startup founders with investor backing, especially in tech and innovation sectors.
Choosing the Right Visa for Your Business
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Your ideal visa depends on your:
- Country of citizenship
- Amount of available capital
- Type and size of business
- Long-term goals (temporary stay vs. permanent residence)
- Legal structure and hiring plans
At Legal Reliance, we don’t just guide you we help build your case from the ground up. We assist with:
- Entity formation and corporate compliance
- Source of funds documentation
- Business plan preparation
- Visa petition filings and interview preparation
Conclusion: You Can Build a Business and a Future in the U.S.
Yes, you can start a business in the U.S. and get a visa. But success depends on strategy, documentation, and strict compliance with immigration law.
Whether you’re launching a consultancy, buying a franchise, opening a retail store, or scaling your startup into the U.S. market, Legal Reliance is here to support you through every legal step of the process.
Ready to begin your U.S. business visa journey? Contact us today for a personalized consultation and legal roadmap.
