---
title: What types of visas are available for entrepreneurs looking to start a business in the United States?
description: Looking to start a business in the US? Legal Faqs has got you covered! Learn about the different types of visas available for entrepreneurs and get expert advice on how to navigate the process of obtaining one. Start your journey to success today!
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 April 17, 2023

# What types of visas are available for entrepreneurs looking to start a business in the United States?

![Picture of Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/hs-fs/hubfs/battis-mug.jpg?width=50&name=battis-mug.jpg) By  [Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/author/chris-battis)  ·   1 minute read

As a lawyer, I can provide information on the types of visas available for entrepreneurs who wish to start a business in the United States.

There are several visa options available for entrepreneurs, including:

1. **E-2 Visa:** This is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business. The investment must be sufficient to generate income that will support the investor's living expenses and any additional employees. The E-2 visa is renewable and allows for spouses and children to accompany the investor.
2. **L-1A Visa:** This is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals who have worked for a company abroad for at least one year to transfer to a U.S. branch of the same company. To qualify for an L-1A visa, the foreign national must be an executive, manager, or specialized knowledge worker. The L-1A visa is renewable and allows for spouses and children to accompany the applicant.
3. **O-1 Visa:** This is a non-immigrant visa that is available to individuals who have extraordinary abilities in the arts, sciences, education, business, or athletics. To qualify for an O-1 visa, the applicant must meet specific criteria, including receiving significant industry recognition and having a record of high achievement in their field. The O-1 visa is generally valid for up to three years and can be renewed thereafter.
4. **EB-5 Visa:** This is an immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to invest a minimum of $1 million (or $500,000 in certain areas) in a U.S. business that will create at least ten full-time jobs for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The EB-5 visa has a higher investment threshold than the E-2 visa but offers the possibility of permanent residency in the U.S.

It's important to note that each of these visa categories has specific requirements that must be met to qualify. Additionally, visa applications can be complex and require extensive documentation, so it may be wise to consult with an immigration attorney before beginning the application process.

In summary, there are several visa options available for entrepreneurs who want to start a business in the United States, including the E-2, L-1A, O-1, and EB-5 visas. Each visa category has specific requirements, but with proper preparation and documentation, it's possible for foreign nationals to obtain a visa that will allow them to live and work in the U.S. while growing their business.

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