Wilmington, Delaware Business & Investor Visas Lawyers

What is the EB-5 investor visa?

The EB-5 program provides a path to permanent residency through investment. The standard investment is $1,050,000, or $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA). The investment must create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. Investors can invest directly in their own business or through a USCIS-approved Regional Center. Processing times have improved but can still take 1-3+ years.

What is the E-2 treaty investor visa?

The E-2 allows nationals of treaty countries to invest in and manage a U.S. business. There's no minimum investment amount, but the investment must be "substantial" relative to the business (typically $100,000+). E-2 visas are renewable indefinitely but don't directly lead to a green card. They allow the investor's spouse to obtain work authorization.

Can I start a business in the U.S. on a visa?

There is no dedicated "startup visa" in the U.S., but several pathways exist: O-1 extraordinary ability visas for founders with significant achievements, L-1 visas for transferring from an existing foreign company, E-2 for treaty country nationals, and the International Entrepreneur Parole program. An immigration attorney can identify which pathway fits your business plan and nationality.