The United States offers various opportunities for businessmen. Therefore, it is no wonder that entrepreneurs around the world want to establish their businesses there. Currently, immigrant businesses in the US, including those in Oregon, provide millions of jobs for all Americans.
However, understanding the laws and the complex procedure of setting up a business as a noncitizen can be mentally exhausting. It is important to understand all the options available to you as they can affect the future of your business.
An experienced immigration lawyer in Oregon can help you determine the right immigration strategy. They can assess your business type and needs and help you make decisions accordingly. You can visit this page to consult with one. Meanwhile, read this blog to learn about the various immigration options available to non-citizen entrepreneurs.
What are the visa options for entrepreneurs?
In order to open up a business in the US, non-citizens must explore the various visa options available to them. Fortunately, there are several of them.
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E-2 treaty investor visa.
The E-2 treaty investor visa allows people from certain countries to invest substantial amounts of money in US businesses. However, the non-citizen should be from a country with a treaty of commerce and trade with the US. While there is no minimum investment, the amount should be enough to make the business successful in the future.
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EB-5 immigrant investor visa.
The EB-5 immigrant investor visa allows certain investors to invest in an existing American business and provides them with a permanent resident status. The best part is that the investor’s spouse and children under the age of 21 can also receive green cards.
The criteria is that they must invest at least $800,000 in a qualified U.S. enterprise that creates ten or more full-time jobs.
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L-1 intracompany transferee visa.
The L-1 visa is best for companies that want to expand their business by opening a new office in the US. The visa allows multinational companies to send their personnel to the United States in an affiliated company. They can participate in the company’s operations and projects and get special knowledge.
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O-1 extraordinary ability visa.
The O-1 visa is reserved for people who possess exceptional or extraordinary abilities in fields like science, business, or the arts. Unlike the other visas, there is no minimum investment here. However, individuals must demonstrate that they are worthy of the visa by showing their proof of achievements. The O-1 visa is granted initially for three years, with opportunities for extensions.
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EB-1C multinational manager and executive visa.
The EB-1C visa is awarded to people who have been employed by a US multinational company in a managerial capacity. To qualify, the individual must have been working at the position for at least one year. This visa has a shorter processing time than other employment-based visas.
Consequences of not understanding the laws
Starting a business in the US or expanding an existing business is a dream for many. The United States opens up various opportunities for businessmen to succeed. However, not understanding the immigration laws can have serious repercussions for employers as well as their employees.
If you start a business or work at a company without the appropriate work permit or violate the terms of work, you may face immediate removal from the US. On top of that, it will also become difficult to find work opportunities in the future. Employers who do not adhere to the employment verification process can face legal penalties.
Bring your business to the US!
If you, like millions of others in the world, have the dream of opening up your business in the US, it is now possible with the right measures. While the laws are complex, it is nothing an experienced immigration cannot handle. Hire one today!
