American Entrepreneur (Startup) Visa: Visa Options to Start a Business in the USA

Starting a business is never easy, especially if you’re doing it in a foreign country. By far, one of the most challenging requirements for those who want to launch a startup in the United States is getting a visa. However, with all the opportunities that the US market offers, many entrepreneurs still find the motivation to undergo the visa application process.

Since the late 2000s, the US government has recognized the importance of startups for their economy. To attract foreign entrepreneurs to establish their ventures in the country, they introduced the American Entrepreneur (Startup) Visa. This program aims to offer temporary residency to founders who are launching and growing a business in the US. With this visa, entrepreneurs can stay in the country for up to five years.

Eligibility

To qualify for the American Entrepreneur Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• You must own at least 15% of the startup
• You must have a central role in the business
• You must have raised a minimum of $250,000 in funding from reputable investors or received a grant from a government entity that supports entrepreneurship
• Your startup must be less than five years old
• Your business must have the potential for significant growth and job creation

Other Visa Options for Startups

If you don’t meet the requirements for the American Entrepreneur Visa, there are other options for entrepreneurs to start a business in the US:

L-1A Visa

This visa is suitable for those who already own a business outside the US and want to expand their operations to the country. The L-1A allows the visa holder to transfer to their US branch as an executive or manager.

E-2 Investor Visa

This visa is available for entrepreneurs who are nationals of certain treaty countries and plan to make a substantial investment in a US business. The E-2 is ideal for those who want to start a smaller retail or service-oriented business.

EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa

This visa option is for foreign entrepreneurs who want to make a significant investment in a US business and create jobs for US workers. The investor must invest a minimum of $1.8 million or $900,000 in a target employment area.

FAQs

What is the American Entrepreneur (Startup) Visa?

The American Entrepreneur (Startup) Visa is a temporary residency program that allows foreign entrepreneurs to establish and grow a startup in the US.

What are the eligibility requirements for the American Entrepreneur (Startup) Visa?

To qualify for the American Entrepreneur Visa, you must own at least 15% of the startup, have a central role in the business, have raised a minimum of $250,000 in funding or received a government grant, your startup must be less than five years old, and have the potential for significant growth and job creation.

Are there other visa options for startups?

Yes. Other visa options for entrepreneurs include the L-1A visa, E-2 investor visa, and the EB-5 immigrant investor visa.

How long can I stay in the US with the American Entrepreneur (Startup) Visa?

You can stay in the US for up to five years with the American Entrepreneur Visa.

Can I apply for permanent residency with the American Entrepreneur Visa?

No. The American Entrepreneur Visa is a temporary residency program and does not offer a path to permanent residency.

What happens if my startup fails?

If your startup does not meet the program requirements anymore, or you decide to close it down, you must leave the US immediately.

When should I apply for the American Entrepreneur Visa?

It is recommended to apply for the visa as early as possible since the process can take several months or even years.