Los Angeles Investor and Business Visa Lawyers

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Business transactions often see visitors from abroad spending extended time in the U.S. while representing their company. Trying to obtain citizenship or extended visa is typically an impractical process for a visitor who is only in the country for business purposes. In these cases, it is recommended that you apply for a business or investor visa.

There are several types of business visas, which can make the application process slightly more complicated. Our immigration lawyers serving Los Angeles and the Bay Area can review your situation and help you apply for the visa that best meets your needs. We regularly assist clients with E-2, L-1, and EB-5 visas, amongst others.

The E-2 Visa: The Most Common Investor Visa

Unlike other visas that simply allow you to conduct business matters in the United States, an E-2 visa allows you to own and operate your own small business or franchise. Though they are generally issued for two to five year periods, E-2 visas can be renewed indefinitely, so long as the business in question produces “more than enough” income to support the investor and his or her family.

E-2 visas allow an individual to remain in the U.S. as long as the original investor oversees the investment. Though they, like other types of business/investor visas, are not immigration visas, an E-2 visa can allow you to establish yourself in the United States before pursuing other avenues to citizenship.

How Do I Apply for an Investor Visa?

If you are eligible for the E-2 visa, you may apply by doing the following:

• Completing and submitting the Form DS-160, Nonimmigrant Visa Application.
• If applicable, complete a Nonimmigrant Treaty Trader / Treaty Investor Application.
• Schedule an interview with the U.S. consulate or embassy location closest to you
• Attend the interview. If you will be applying for your spouse and children as well, be sure that they are also in attendance. The official may request more information from you. If so, be sure to submit the information per their instructions to ensure there is no delay in your process.

You should receive approval or denial of the investor visa. If you are unsure if your situation requires a Nonimmigrant Treaty Trader Application or want to know more in-depth details regarding the process or the interview, reach out to an investor visa lawyer near you!

About L-1 and EB-5 Visas

Our firm can assist you with other types of business and investor visas to suit your needs. Along with E-visas, our attorney regularly helps clients with L-1 and EB-5 visas. An L-1 visa is one that allows an individual to come to the U.S. to work for the same employer (or its affiliate) in a management or executive role. L-1 visa holders may also continue employment in the U.S. in a specialized knowledge category. Like E-2 visas, an L-1 visa permits holders to eventually seek and obtain legal permanent residence in the United States.

EB-5 visas allow individuals to seek U.S. citizenship by investing at least $1 million in a U.S. business. The business in question must employ at least 10 U.S. employees. Individuals may invest on their own, or they may invest through a third-party intermediary that is approved by the U.S. federal government.

We Can Review Your Situation at No Charge

Figuring out the best visa option for your situation can be difficult, especially if your U.S. business involves investments or large transactions. It’s best not to take any chances. Our immigration lawyers in Los Angeles and the Bay Area offer free consultations. We can review your case and help you get started on your business visa application.