{"id":352894,"date":"2022-08-19T07:42:52","date_gmt":"2022-08-19T12:42:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/immigration\/visas\/investment-business-immigrant-visas.html"},"modified":"2026-06-02T16:19:00","modified_gmt":"2026-06-02T21:19:00","slug":"investment-business-immigrant-visas","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/visas\/investment-business-immigrant-visas.html","title":{"rendered":"U.S. Visas for Business Traders and Investors"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">U.S. Visas for Business Traders and Investors<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/lyle-therese-a-hilotin-lee-j-d\/\">Lyle Therese A. Hilotin-Lee, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/meagan-neil-esq\/\">Meagan Neil, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            June 02, 2026\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n    <div class=\"fl-callout-text article-blockquote\">\n        <p>The U.S. offers several business and <span data-term-id=\"58960216\">investor visas<\/span> that allow <span data-term-id=\"58960212\">foreign nationals<\/span> to trade, invest, or work in specialized professional roles tied to international agreements. Options like the E\u20111 and E\u20112 visas support treaty traders and investors, while the EB\u20115 program provides a path to <span data-term-id=\"58960208\">permanent residency<\/span> for those who make qualifying job\u2011creating investments.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The United States acknowledges the importance of cultivating business relationships among nations. This shows in the U.S. government\u2019s wide range of visas for business traders and investors.\u00a0These <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/visas.html\"><span data-term-id=\"58960266\">U.S. visas<\/span><\/a> often connect with trade agreements such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Treaty Traders<\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"58960216\">Investors Visa<\/span><\/li>\n<li>NAFTA<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These treaties are essential for those aiming to contribute to and enjoy the robust <span data-term-id=\"58960238\">U.S. economy<\/span>. Keep reading to learn more about special visas for business traders and investors.<\/p>\n<p>Navigating <span data-term-id=\"58960272\">U.S. <\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960223\">immigration<\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960223\"> laws<\/span> doesn\u2019t need to be confusing or overwhelming. Any <span data-term-id=\"58960230\">visa <\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960237\">application<\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960237\"> process<\/span> is often made easier\u2014and more successful\u2014<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">with a lawyer\u2019s help<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Types of Special Visas for Business Traders and Investors<\/h2>\n<p>The U.S. offers these visas to attract <span data-term-id=\"58960269\">foreign investors<\/span>. The visas also help <span data-term-id=\"58960226\">job creation<\/span>, economic growth, and <span data-term-id=\"58960225\">international trade<\/span>. The following are the types of special visas that the U.S. government offers to business traders and investors:<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"58960241\">E-1 Treaty Traders Visas<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/temporary-workers\/e-1-treaty-traders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58960241\">E-1 Treaty Traders<\/span><\/a><span data-term-id=\"58960241\">\u00a0visa<\/span> is a <span data-term-id=\"58960211\">nonimmigrant visa<\/span> that allows foreign <span data-term-id=\"58960209\">treaty country<\/span> nationals to enter the U.S. to engage in <span data-term-id=\"58960225\">international trade<\/span>. <span data-term-id=\"58960209\">Treaty countries<\/span> are countries with which the U.S. has a <span data-term-id=\"58960260\">treaty of commerce<\/span> and navigation. These are also countries that the U.S. has a qualifying international agreement or law that considers them a qualifying country.<\/p>\n<p>Selected E-1 visa employees of these types of businesses, local or international organizations, may also get an <span data-term-id=\"58960241\">E-1 treaty trader visa<\/span>. This includes their dependent <span data-term-id=\"58960245\">family members<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"58960218\">E-2 Treaty <\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960216\">Investors<\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960216\"> Visas<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/employment\/treaty-trader-investor-visa-e.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58960218\">E-2 Treaty <\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960216\">Investors<\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960216\"> visa<\/span><\/a>\u00a0is a <span data-term-id=\"58960211\">nonimmigrant visa<\/span> that allows foreign citizens to invest in and manage a business in the United States. It is available to people from the <span data-term-id=\"58960209\">treaty country<\/span>. Employees of investors or companies may also apply for an E-2 status Treaty <span data-term-id=\"58960216\">Investor visa<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h3>EB-5 <span data-term-id=\"58960256\">Immigrant Investor<\/span> Program<\/h3>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/permanent-workers\/eb-5-immigrant-investor-program\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">EB-5 <span data-term-id=\"58960256\">Immigrant Investor<\/span><\/a>\u00a0Program offers a path to <span data-term-id=\"58960248\">lawful <\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960208\">permanent resident<\/span> (LPR) status to <span data-term-id=\"58960269\">foreign investors<\/span> and their immediate <span data-term-id=\"58960245\">family members<\/span>. Immediate <span data-term-id=\"58960245\">family members<\/span> include the investor\u2019s spouse and <span data-term-id=\"58960232\">unmarried children<\/span> under 21. In some ways, an <span data-term-id=\"58960250\">EB-5 visa<\/span> is like an <span data-term-id=\"58960234\">employment-based<\/span> visa. Holders of investment visas are legally authorized to start and run <span data-term-id=\"58960222\">U.S. businesses<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Getting an <span data-term-id=\"58960250\">EB-5 visa<\/span> doesn\u2019t automatically speed up naturalization. It also doesn\u2019t necessarily expedite your ability to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/citizenship\/naturalization-process.html\">gain citizenship<\/a>. But it gives you a legal path to work in the United States.<\/p>\n<p>Congress initiated the program to boost the <span data-term-id=\"58960238\">U.S. economy<\/span>.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/permanent-workers\/eb-5-immigrant-investor-program\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58960262\">U.S. Citizenship<\/span> and <span data-term-id=\"58960236\">Immigration Services<\/span> (<span data-term-id=\"58960215\">USCIS<\/span>)<\/a>\u00a0administers this <span data-term-id=\"58960263\">visa program<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h3>NAFTA Professional Workers Visas<\/h3>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.trade.gov\/north-american-free-trade-agreement-nafta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)<\/a>\u00a0allows professionals from Canada and Mexico to come to the U.S. to work in prearranged business activities. This agreement created trade and economic relationships for Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The <span data-term-id=\"58960221\">visa holder<\/span>\u2019s spouse and <span data-term-id=\"58960232\">unmarried children<\/span> under 21 may travel to the United States. These <span data-term-id=\"58960245\">family members<\/span> may not work in the U.S.<\/p>\n<h2>General Qualifications and <span data-term-id=\"58960213\">Eligibility<\/span> Requirements<\/h2>\n<p>You must meet certain qualifications and requirements to get business traders\u2019 and investors\u2019 visas. The following are the general qualifications that you have to meet under <span data-term-id=\"58960272\">U.S. <\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960223\">immigration<\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960223\"> laws<\/span>, including those under the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/laws-and-policy\/legislation\/immigration-and-nationality-act\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)<\/a>:<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"58960241\">E-1 Treaty Traders Visa<\/span> Qualifications<\/h3>\n<p>As a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/temporary-workers\/e-1-treaty-traders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">treaty trader<\/a>, you must be:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A <span data-term-id=\"58960212\">foreign national<\/span> of a country that maintains a <span data-term-id=\"58960260\">treaty of commerce<\/span> and navigation with the United States; or<\/li>\n<li>From a country with which the U.S. maintains an international agreement or is a qualifying country by law.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>To qualify, you should have engaged in <span data-term-id=\"58960220\">substantial trade<\/span> between the <span data-term-id=\"58960209\">treaty country<\/span> and the United States. That means over 50% of <span data-term-id=\"58960225\">international trade<\/span> is between the U.S. and the <span data-term-id=\"58960209\">treaty country<\/span>. Trade means the international exchange of items of trade. Examples of items of trade include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Services<\/li>\n<li>Goods<\/li>\n<li>Insurance<\/li>\n<li>Transportation<\/li>\n<li>Technology and its transfer<\/li>\n<li>And more<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>E-2 Treat <span data-term-id=\"58960216\">Investor Visa<\/span> Qualifications<\/h3>\n<p>As an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/temporary-workers\/e-2-treaty-investors\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58960210\">E-2 <\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960221\">visa<\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960221\"> holde<\/span><\/a><span data-term-id=\"58960221\">r<\/span>, you should be a citizen of a <span data-term-id=\"58960209\">treaty country<\/span>. You can be an individual, a partnership, or a corporate entity that has invested or is investing capital in a <span data-term-id=\"58960222\">U.S. business<\/span>. The investment should generate a significant economic impact on the U.S., and you should have control of the funds. If you are not the principal investor, you should at least be an essential employee of the entity.<\/p>\n<h3>EB-5 <span data-term-id=\"58960256\">Immigrant Investor<\/span> Program Qualifications<\/h3>\n<p>EB-5 <span data-term-id=\"58960216\">investor visas<\/span> are for investors in <span data-term-id=\"58960251\">new <\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960219\">commercial enterprises<\/span> established after Nov. 29, 1990.<\/p>\n<p>The U.S. Department of State sets out several <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/permanent-workers\/employment-based-immigration-fifth-preference-eb-5\/about-the-eb-5-visa-classification\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">criteria for qualifying investments<\/a>. For investment visas, a person must meet certain commercially oriented requirements. Conditional on the issuance of these visas is the satisfaction of these requirements. According to the U.S. Department of State, a person must invest at least $1,050,000 in a <span data-term-id=\"58960219\">commercial enterprise<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>But a <span data-term-id=\"58960212\">foreign national<\/span> must do so without borrowing any money. They may also invest $500,000 in <span data-term-id=\"58960257\">high-unemployment<\/span> areas. <span data-term-id=\"58960257\">High-unemployment<\/span> areas are those with unemployment rates 150% above the national average.<\/p>\n<p>A person may also invest this amount in <span data-term-id=\"58960219\">commercial enterprises<\/span> within rural areas. They may also invest in any <span data-term-id=\"58960229\">targeted employment areas<\/span>. But the investment must be:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>In the amounts specified<\/li>\n<li>In the areas required, and<\/li>\n<li>Without entailing a loan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The investment amounts mentioned above are considered EB-5 investments. They are often perfect for <span data-term-id=\"58960214\">entrepreneurs<\/span> and also suitable for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/permanent-workers\/employment-based-immigration-fifth-preference-eb-5\/eb-5-resources\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58960269\">foreign investors<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Other requirements include the investment creating <span data-term-id=\"58960242\">full-time jobs<\/span> for at least 10 <span data-term-id=\"58960224\">U.S. citizens<\/span> or LPRs within two years. Creating this number of jobs for migrant workers authorized to work in the United States is another way to meet the requirement.<\/p>\n<p>You must also submit an organized <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-write-a-business-plan.html\">business plan<\/a> to the State Department. It must detail the nature of all your direct investments.<\/p>\n<h3>What is an EB-5 <span data-term-id=\"58960233\">Regional Center<\/span>?<\/h3>\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/permanent-workers\/employment-based-immigration-fifth-preference-eb-5\/eb-5-immigrant-investor-regional-centers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58960233\">Regional Center<\/span><\/a> is a private or public entity involved in economic growth and <span data-term-id=\"58960226\">job creation<\/span>. For example, it could be a mixed-use real estate project focused on dense housing, retail, and office space.<\/p>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"58960233\">Regional Centers<\/span> must:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Be approved by <span data-term-id=\"58960215\">USCIS<\/span> for the EB-5 program<\/li>\n<li>Focus on a specific geographic area within the United States<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>They also promote economic growth through:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Increased export sales<\/li>\n<li>Improved regional productivity<\/li>\n<li>Creation of new jobs<\/li>\n<li>Increased domestic capital investment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The <span data-term-id=\"58960215\">USCIS<\/span> website has a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/permanent-workers\/employment-based-immigration-fifth-preference-eb-5\/eb-5-immigrant-investor-regional-centers\/approved-eb-5-immigrant-investor-regional-centers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">list of approved <span data-term-id=\"58960233\">Regional Centers<\/span><\/a> in each state.<\/p>\n<h3>Getting <span data-term-id=\"58960208\">Permanent Resident<\/span> Status as an EB-5 Investor<\/h3>\n<p>The issuance of investment visas results in a person qualifying as a conditional resident. Within two years of the issuance of a conditional\u00a0<span data-term-id=\"58960217\">green card<\/span>, the investor must apply to remove the conditions. With removal of these conditions, they may become a <span data-term-id=\"58960208\">permanent resident<\/span> with no conditions.<\/p>\n<p>File\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/i-829\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form I-829<\/a> (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on <span data-term-id=\"58960208\">Permanent Resident<\/span> Status)\u00a0to remove the conditions on the <span data-term-id=\"58960217\">green card<\/span>. If these petitions are granted, it will result in the removal of conditions to permanent status.<\/p>\n<h3>NAFTA Professional Workers Qualifications<\/h3>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"58960254\">Canadian<\/span> and Mexican professionals can apply for work in the U.S. as <a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/employment\/visas-canadian-mexican-usmca-professional-workers.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NAFTA professionals<\/a> after meeting certain conditions. First, they are a citizen of either Canada or Mexico. Second, the job that they will do in the U.S. is among those listed under the NAFTA agreement.<\/p>\n<p>Included among the conditions required is that a business needs a NAFTA professional for the position in the United States. The NAFTA applicant should also meet the special qualifications in:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Education<\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"58960244\">Specialized knowledge<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Professional skills<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>How To Apply for Business Traders\u2019 and Investors\u2019 Visas<\/h2>\n<p>There are several steps to follow to apply for business-trader and <span data-term-id=\"58960216\">investor visas<\/span>. The steps and required documentation may vary depending on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-laws-and-resources\/u-s-embassy-consulate-guide.html\">U.S. embassy or <span data-term-id=\"58960258\">U.S. consulate<\/span><\/a> where you are filing your <span data-term-id=\"58960230\">visa application<\/span>. But the following are the general steps to take when applying for this type of <span data-term-id=\"58960266\">U.S. visa<\/span>:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Fill out an online <span data-term-id=\"58960230\">visa application<\/span>.<\/strong>\u00a0You must file an online <span data-term-id=\"58960211\">nonimmigrant <\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960230\">visa<\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960230\"> application<\/span> (<a href=\"https:\/\/ceac.state.gov\/genniv\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form DS-160<\/a>) with <span data-term-id=\"58960262\">U.S. Citizenship<\/span> and <span data-term-id=\"58960236\">Immigration Services<\/span> (<span data-term-id=\"58960215\">USCIS<\/span>). You must complete the online application. After completion, print the confirmation page to bring to your visa interview.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Prepare a photo ID.<\/strong>\u00a0Upload a photo identification during your online application. You must upload this picture while completing\u00a0Form DS-160.\u00a0Note that the image should meet the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/visa-information-resources\/photos.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">photograph requirements<\/a>\u00a0specified by the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Schedule your visa interview.<\/strong>\u00a0Your visa interview will be at the\u00a0U.S. embassy or\u00a0consulate in your <span data-term-id=\"58960252\">home country<\/span>. Note that the waiting times for interview appointments vary. This depends on the visa classification, location, season, and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/visas\/temporary-visas.html\">type of <span data-term-id=\"58960266\">U.S. visa<\/span><\/a> you are applying for.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Prepare the required documentation.<\/strong>\u00a0Gather the required documents for your interview. This includes your valid passport, Form DS-160 confirmation page, application fee, and photo ID. Nonimmigrant treat traders and investors also must bring\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/eforms.state.gov\/Forms\/ds156_e.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form DS-156E<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Attend your visa interview.<\/strong>\u00a0Then, attend your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-overview\/immigration-interview-do-s-and-don-ts.html\">visa interview<\/a> to get your <span data-term-id=\"58960266\">U.S. visa<\/span>. A consular officer assesses your <span data-term-id=\"58960230\">visa application<\/span> and determines whether you qualify for a <span data-term-id=\"58960266\">U.S. visa<\/span>. The consular officer will also check the appropriate <span data-term-id=\"58960265\">visa category<\/span> for your trip. It would help if you also established that you have met all the requirements set out by <span data-term-id=\"58960272\">U.S. <\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960223\">immigration<\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960223\"> law<\/span>\u00a0for the visa you are applying for.<\/p>\n<p>After the interview, the consular officer may request additional administrative processing. But if the consular officer approves your <span data-term-id=\"58960230\">visa application<\/span>, you may pay the <a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/visa-information-resources\/fees\/fees-visa-services.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">visa issuance fee<\/a>. The consular officials will also inform you how to get your passport with the <span data-term-id=\"58960266\">U.S. visa<\/span> attached.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Your <span data-term-id=\"58960266\">U.S. visa<\/span> does not guarantee entry into the United States. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers will still conduct interviews and check your documents at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-overview\/immigration-glossary-and-acronyms.html\">port of entry<\/a>. They may ask questions about the purpose of your trip and other relevant information.<\/p>\n<h2>Seek Legal Advice from an <span data-term-id=\"58960231\">Immigration Attorney<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Understanding <span data-term-id=\"58960272\">U.S. <\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960223\">immigration<\/span><span data-term-id=\"58960223\"> laws<\/span> related to business traders and investors is challenging. Some rules affect the requirements and documentation needed for the position. The amendments in U.S. laws, particularly the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), could also affect your <span data-term-id=\"58960230\">visa application<\/span>. Visa <span data-term-id=\"58960235\">waivers<\/span> may also apply. Although sources are readily available, it can be overwhelming for those without a legal background.<\/p>\n<p>Given the complex legal requirements, it helps to seek guidance from an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58960223\">immigration law<\/span> attorney<\/a>. Their expertise can help your case and maximize your chance of a successful <span data-term-id=\"58960230\">visa application<\/span>. They can also assist with other <span data-term-id=\"58960236\">immigration services<\/span>. For instance, they can help with change of status, <span data-term-id=\"58960267\">employment authorization<\/span>, and more.<\/p>\n<p>FindLaw\u2019s\u00a0<a class=\"in-cell-link\" href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">directory of <span data-term-id=\"58960231\">immigration attorneys<\/span><\/a>\u00a0can get you started. Enter your city or ZIP code for a list of qualified legal professionals in your area. Your search results will also show important details about prospective lawyers, including ratings, languages spoken, and whether they offer free consultations.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g 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                 >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    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          class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Some people can get a green card or complete immigration forms without hiring legal help\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Complex immigration cases (such as having a criminal history or past immigration violations) may need the support of an attorney\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can review your business or investment plan and match it to the right <span data-term-id=\"58960265\">visa category<\/span> while spotting any issues\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>The immigration process can be stressful and slow. An attorney can offer tailored advice and help prevent common mistakes.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\">\u00a0<a title=\"Immigration Law Attorney Directory\" href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL29\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n       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rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/asylum-refugee\/asylum-process.html\">\n                        Asylum Process\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys.html\">\n                        Hiring an Immigration Attorney\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal.html\">\n                        Deportation and Removal\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Immigration Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/international-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">International Law Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/labor-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Labor Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/employment-law-employee\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Employment Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/discrimination\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Discrimination Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/education-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Education Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Explore U.S. visas for business traders and investors. FindLaw&#8217;s guide covers E-1, E-2, EB-5, and NAFTA visas, outlining eligibility and application steps.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":352860,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":["SEO Title Length","Alt Text for All Images","Category Assigned","External Links"]},"categories":[2733],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-352894","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-immigration"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352894","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=352894"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352894\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":396776,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352894\/revisions\/396776"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352860"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=352894"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=352894"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=352894"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=352894"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=352894"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}