Did you know the United States has a special visa for those coming to start a business? It's called the EB-2 visa. This visa is for people with advanced degrees or who are good at work. It gives entrepreneurs a chance to live in the U.S. permanently. They can then explore all the opportunities the American market offers.
Exploring the EB2 Investor Visa as a pathway to business ownership? Contact Exit Advisor today! We specialize in guiding clients through the EB2 Investor Visa Program, helping you understand the requirements, benefits, and optimal strategies for buying a business in the U.S. Start your journey toward successful business acquisition with professional support. Act now to ensure a smooth and efficient visa application process!
Key Takeaways:
- The EB-2 visa is a pathway for business migrants to establish themselves in the United States.
- It is available to individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability.
- The EB-2 visa requires sponsorship from an employer and an application process that includes fulfilling eligibility criteria, providing necessary documentation, and paying fees.
- Once approved, applicants can apply for a green card and enjoy the benefits of lawful permanent residency.
- Business migrants must familiarize themselves with the eligibility requirements and application procedures for a successful migration.
Eligibility for EB-2 Visa
To get the EB-2 visa, you must fit certain standards. You can be in one of three groups: having an advanced degree, showing outstanding skills, or getting a National Interest Waiver. Here's more on each group:
1. Advanced Degree
- To qualify, you need a higher degree or foreign equivalent.
- You can also use a bachelor's degree with five years of increasing work achievement.
2. Exceptional Ability
- This is for those much better than the science, art, or business average.
- You must prove your exceptional ability by showing what you've done in your field.
3. National Interest Waiver (NIW)
- For this, you need an advanced degree or to be exceptionally gifted.
- The point is to show that not requiring a job certification helps the U.S.
- Then, you have to make a case for a very important project.
Special rules for the EB-2 visa apply to each group. The demands change based on your skills and the group you're in.
| Category | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Advanced Degree | An advanced degree or foreign equivalent A bachelor's degree with five years of progressive work experience |
| Exceptional Ability | Expertise significantly above the norm in sciences, arts, or business Proof of exceptional ability through achievements and recognition |
| National Interest Waiver | An advanced degree or exceptional ability Demonstration of benefit to the United States Proposal of substantial merit and national importance |
Fulfilling these rules is key to getting the EB-2 visa and achieving your dream of running a business in the U.S.
The EB-2 Visa Application Process
Getting an EB-2 visa requires several key steps. Let's look at the main parts:
- Obtain Permanent Employment Certification: Your employer must first get a permanent job certification from the Department of Labor. They can choose the usual route or get a National Interest Waiver.
- File Form I-140: Once they have this, they file Form I-140. It's known as the Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers. The employer sends it to the USCIS. They must give enough proof of your petition.
- Wait for Visa Availability: After USCIS approves Form I-140, you must wait for a visa. This wait can change. But you might speed it up by choosing premium processing.
- File Form I-485 or Transfer to NVC: If you're already in the U.S., you can apply for a green card with Form I-485. But if you're not in the U.S., your case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC).
Filing Form I-485 can take 7.5 to 32.5 months for work-based visas. For the latest updates on your case, check the USCIS website or the processing times tool.
EB-2 Visa Fees and Costs
The EB-2 visa has several fees and costs. It's key for applicants to know these financial points. This info is vital for those going for business migration to the U.S. Here's a clear view of the EB-2 visa's main fees:
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing fee for Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) | $715 |
| Immigrant fee | $235 |
| Filing fee for Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status Application) | $1440 |
| Biometrics fees (applicable for applicants aged 14 to 79) | $85 |
| Filing fee for Form DS-260 (Green Card Application) | $345 |
| Filing fee for Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) | $120 |
Keep in mind these fees may change over time. It's key to check for any updates from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Knowing the latest fees helps applicants plan their finances without stress.
Conclusion
Moving your business to the USA with the EB-2 visa has big benefits. It gives you a chance to live in a place full of opportunities permanently. Yet, the process to secure this visa can be tricky and time-consuming.
To make things easier, getting help from an immigration expert or lawyer is key. They will help you understand the requirements and navigate the whole application process. They will also make sure you meet all the needed conditions.
You can start a successful business in the USA with the right preparation and a strong will. Take advantage of what the EB-2 visa offers and begin an exciting journey. You'll be in a country with a strong economy and many chances to grow your business.
Exploring the EB2 Investor Visa as a pathway to business ownership? Contact Exit Advisor today! We specialize in guiding clients through the EB2 Investor Visa Program, helping you understand the requirements, benefits, and optimal strategies for buying a business in the U.S. Start your journey toward successful business acquisition with professional support. Act now to ensure a smooth and efficient visa application process!
