Visas for investors in the U. S.: E-2, EB-5, L-1 and more

Benefits of Migration
for Investors

The main requirement is to be a citizen of a country that has a Trade and Investment treaty with the U.S., such as Colombia.
There is no exact amount set by law, but in practice it is recommended to invest at least between USD $100,000 - $150,000, or more for it to be considered substantial.
Invest in an existing business owning at least 50%, or create a new business where you own 100%.
The business must be real and operational, as in the case of construction for our purposes. It does not apply if you only open a bank account, acquire a plot of land, or buy a house.
You must have filed at least one tax return (IRS Taxes) showing profitability in order to apply for the visa, and demonstrate sustained economic activity.
The company must have the capacity to generate sufficient income to support the investor and their family.

After 5 years, you may apply for the Green Card by demonstrating sustained economic activity.
The applicant can live and work legally in the U.S. only in the company for which the petition was filed. They may travel in and out of the U.S.
The benefit extends to the spouse (who can obtain an open work permit) and children under 21 years old (who can study in schools or universities).
Applying at the U.S. consulate from Colombia, the process can take between 3 and 6 months.
If applying by changing status within the U.S., it can take between 4 and 8 months. There is an option for Premium Processing within 15 days at an additional cost.
Advantages: moderate investment amount, relatively short process, benefits for the family group.
Treaty countries in Latin America: Colombia, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, Honduras, Panama, Paraguay.
Countries without treaty: Brazil, Venezuela, Bolivia, and Ecuador.
Other treaty countries: Spain, Italy, France, Germany, United Kingdom, Canada, Turkey, Japan, South Korea, and Australia.
The visa is initially granted for 2 years and can be renewed indefinitely.

The main requirement is to invest a significant amount of money that generates jobs in the U.S.
Minimum amount: between USD $800,000 and USD $1,050,000 depending on the investment area.
It must generate at least 10 direct jobs for U.S. workers.
It leads directly to the Green Card and eventually to citizenship.
Limitation: requires a high investment amount and the process can take years.

Requires having a company in the country of origin and opening a subsidiary or branch in the U.S.
The purpose is to transfer an executive, manager, or a person with specialized knowledge.
No fixed minimum investment is required, but a solid business plan is necessary.
It may lead to permanent residence under the EB-1C category.

Similar to the E-2 visa, but focused on international trade instead of investment in a business.
It is used when a large part of the company’s trade is between the U.S. and the country of origin.