Desbloqueando oportunidades de negócios nos EUA: um guia para opções de visto de não-imigrante para empreendedores
Flavia Santos • July 14, 2023
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Empreendedores e investidores são impulsionadores-chave do crescimento econômico e da criação de empregos, e os Estados Unidos têm sido há muito tempo um destino de escolha para aqueles que desejam iniciar ou expandir seus negócios. No entanto, navegar pelo sistema de imigração dos EUA pode ser complexo e demorado. Neste artigo, discutiremos as várias opções de visto de não-imigrante disponíveis para empreendedores e investidores que desejam ingressar nos Estados Unidos.
Visto L-1 para transferidos da mesma empresa – “L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa”
Esta é uma categoria de visto especificamente projetada para executivos, gerentes e funcionários com conhecimento especializado que estão se mudando de uma corporação estrangeira para uma filial nos Estados Unidos. A elegibilidade para um visto L-1 requer que a corporação estrangeira e a filial nos EUA estejam conectadas por meio de propriedade ou controle comum. Os transferidos também devem demonstrar que foram empregados no exterior por pelo menos 12 meses em uma capacidade executiva, gerencial e de conhecimento especializado.
Um funcionário que está sendo transferido também pode estar se dirigindo aos Estados Unidos para abrir um escritório se a empresa não tiver presença lá. O visto L-1 não é a melhor escolha para alguém nos estágios iniciais de lançamento de uma empresa, especialmente se o negócio estiver sendo estabelecido nos Estados Unidos. No entanto, pode ser uma opção viável para um empreendedor que tenha, por exemplo, iniciado um negócio fora dos Estados Unidos que manterá suas operações, ou se o empreendedor fundir as operações com uma empresa estrangeira onde ele tenha sido empregado anteriormente.
Visto E-1 Tratado de Comerciante – “E-1 Treaty Trader Visa”
Esta categoria de visto é designada para cidadãos de países com os quais os Estados Unidos mantêm tratados de comércio e navegação. Um empreendedor que se qualifica para um visto E-1 deve entrar nos EUA para realizar comércio substancial, incluindo comércio de serviços ou tecnologia, principalmente entre os EUA e o país do tratado.
O comércio, conforme definido, deve envolver a troca de mercadorias, dinheiro ou serviços. Praticamente qualquer mercadoria ou serviço pode atender a esse requisito. O fluxo de transações entre os dois países deve ser verificável, geralmente por meio de documentos como ordens de compra, transferências bancárias ou conhecimentos de embarque.
Para determinar a substancialidade do comércio, o Departamento de Estado (DOS) avaliará a frequência e o valor monetário das transações. Transações mais regulares e de alto valor recebem maior consideração. No entanto, pequenas empresas também podem se qualificar se puderem demonstrar que o volume de transações é suficiente para sustentar o(s) comerciante(s) do tratado e sua família.
O DOS aplica uma regra geral que estabelece que pelo menos 50% do comércio deve ser entre os Estados Unidos Assim, os candidatos devem fornecer provas de suas transações comerciais totais e provar que um mínimo de 50% é entre os dois países. O comércio restante pode ser doméstico ou internacional com outros países. Mesmo que uma subsidiária com sede nos Estados Unidos atenda ao requisito de 50%, a matriz no exterior não precisa necessariamente conduzir 50% de seu comércio com os Estados Unidos.
Devido à exigência de demonstrar um histórico comercial substancial, pode ser um desafio para as startups em estágio inicial se qualificarem para um E-1. Este tipo de visto é mais utilizado por empresários estabelecidos com negócios no exterior e uma base de clientes nos Estados Unidos, que desejam continuar suas operações nos Estados Unidos. Em alguns casos, empresas estrangeiras com o objetivo de penetrar no mercado dos EUA podem usar um E-1 para uma subsidiária americana recém-estabelecida e começar a mover estoque para venda nos EUA. Nesse caso, todo o comércio pode ser feito entre a controladora estrangeira e a subsidiária americana, atingindo assim confortavelmente o limite de 50%.
Visto E-2 Tratado de Investidor – “E-2 Treaty Investor Visa”
O Visto de Investidor do Tratado E-2 é para cidadãos de países que possuem um tratado de comércio e navegação com os Estados Unidos. Para se qualificar para um visto E-2, um empresário deve vir para os Estados Unidos para desenvolver e dirigir as operações de um negócio no qual investiu ou está investindo uma quantia substancial de capital.
No exemplo clássico de um investimento E-2, o investidor E-2 transfere sua riqueza pessoal de uma conta bancária estrangeira para a conta bancária de sua nova empresa nos Estados Unidos, estabelecendo assim seu investimento. No entanto, o Manual de Relações Exteriores (FAM) oferece alguma flexibilidade, permitindo que o oficial considere outros "arranjos" como um "investimento".
Para aqueles que não pretendem financiar o empreendimento E-2 total ou parcialmente com seus recursos pessoais, a nacionalidade de outros investidores precisa ser considerada para garantir que pelo menos 50% das ações da empresa permaneçam nas mãos de nacionais do E-2 país tratado. Por exemplo, suponha que um dos cofundadores seja americano e o outro francês, e cada um possua 50% da empresa, contribuindo com US$ 40.000 de sua fortuna pessoal como capital inicial para a empresa. Para levantar fundos adicionais, cada um deles decide trocar 7% de seu patrimônio (14% no total) com um investidor anjo por $ 150.000. Se o investidor-anjo também for francês, então 57% da empresa passa a ser de propriedade de cidadãos franceses; mas se o anjo for um cidadão americano, então apenas 43% da empresa é francesa e não se qualifica mais como uma empresa francesa para fins de E-2. Neste cenário, os fundadores precisarão mudar para outro tipo de visto antes da troca de ações, pois o E-2 não será mais válido quando a empresa perder sua nacionalidade de tratado.
Uma preocupação central para cada aplicação do visto E-2 é a "fonte de fundos". O requerente deve demonstrar claramente a origem legal de seus fundos de investimento, juntamente com evidências de propriedade e controle. Além disso, para ser classificado como um investimento E-2, os ativos ou fundos investidos devem estar "em risco". Isso significa que, se o negócio falhar, o investimento é proporcionalmente perdido. Embora o capital de investimento possa ser baseado em empréstimo, o empréstimo não pode ser garantido pelos ativos da empresa E-2. Empréstimos pessoais, que podem ser garantidos por bens pessoais como uma segunda hipoteca ou empréstimos não garantidos normalmente obtidos de familiares, amigos ou parceiros de negócios, são permitidos.
Visto O-1
A categoria de visto O-1 é uma opção única e vantajosa para empreendedores iniciantes e proprietários de empresas que demonstraram proezas excepcionais em seu campo. A categoria de visto O-1A atende especificamente a indivíduos que exibem habilidades extraordinárias em ciências, educação, negócios ou atletismo. Isso o torna um caminho viável para aqueles que procuram estabelecer ou expandir seus negócios nos EUA sem a necessidade de manter um escritório no exterior ou fornecer evidências de comércio e investimento, conforme exigido pelos vistos L-1 e E-1/E-2.
Ao contrário das categorias de visto mais tradicionais, o visto O-1A muda a ênfase para as realizações individuais do beneficiário dentro de seu domínio. Exige que o beneficiário atenda a pelo menos três dos oito critérios regulatórios estabelecidos pelos Serviços de Imigração dos EUA. Esses critérios formam uma medida abrangente das realizações, reconhecimento e posição geral do indivíduo em seus respectivos campos.
Por exemplo, se o beneficiário recebeu prêmios ou prêmios reconhecidos nacional ou internacionalmente, isso destaca sua excelência e competência líder do setor. Alternativamente, a participação em associações de prestígio que exigem conquistas louváveis, conforme julgado por especialistas reconhecidos, também pode servir como evidência de sua habilidade extraordinária.
O visto O-1 oferece uma rota alternativa que enfatiza a experiência individual e o reconhecimento no campo do solicitante, em vez de cotas comerciais ou de investimento. Este visto é especialmente benéfico para aqueles que demonstraram capacidade excepcional e alcançaram um alto grau de sucesso em seus respectivos domínios de negócios.
No geral, o visto O-1A oferece uma rota de imigração eficaz para empresários e empresários extraordinariamente talentosos. Ao atender e superar os critérios de elegibilidade, eles podem obter acesso às vastas oportunidades no mercado dos EUA, promovendo assim seus empreendimentos comerciais e contribuindo para o crescimento econômico e a diversificação dos EUA.
Conclusão
Para empreendedores e investidores estrangeiros, várias opções de imigração nos EUA estão disponíveis: o visto E-1 tratado de comerciante, o visto E-2 de tratado de investidor, o visto L-1 de transferência dentro da empresa e o visto O-1 para indivíduos com habilidades extraordinárias . Enquanto os vistos E-1 e E-2 se concentram em comércio e investimento, respectivamente, o L-1 é para gerentes ou executivos que se transferem para uma filial nos EUA de sua empresa, e o visto O-1 reconhece conhecimentos e realizações individuais. Cada visto tem pré-requisitos exclusivos, exigindo a orientação de um advogado de imigração para a seleção da estratégia ideal. A navegação correta dessas opções abre vastas oportunidades e recursos empresariais nos EUA.
Este blog não se destina a fornecer aconselhamento jurídico e nada aqui deve ser interpretado como estabelecimento de um relacionamento advogado-cliente. Por favor, agende uma consulta com um advogado de imigração antes de agir com base em qualquer informação lida aqui.
Flavia Lloyd
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Entrepreneurs and investors are key drivers of economic growth and job creation, and the United States has long been a destination of choice for those seeking to start or grow their businesses. However, navigating the U.S. immigration system can be complex and time-consuming. In this article, we will discuss the various non-immigrant visa options available to entrepreneurs and investors looking to enter the United States. L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa The L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa is a visa category specifically designed for executives, managers, and employees possessing specialized knowledge who are relocating from a foreign corporation to a U.S. affiliate. The eligibility for an L-1 visa requires the foreign corporation and the U.S. affiliate to be connected through common ownership or control. Transferees must also demonstrate that they have been employed abroad for at least 12 months in an executive, managerial, and specialized knowledge capacity. An employee being relocated might also be heading to the United States to set up an office if the company doesn't have an existing presence there. The L-1 visa isn't the best choice for someone in the early stages of launching a company, particularly if the business is being established in the United States. However, it could be a viable option for an entrepreneur who has, for instance, kick-started a business outside of the United States which will maintain its operations, or if the entrepreneur merges operations with a foreign company where they have previously been employed. E-1 Treaty Trader Visa E-1 Treaty Trader Visa category is designated for nationals of countries with which the U.S. maintains treaties of commerce and navigation. An entrepreneur qualifying for an E-1 visa must be entering the U.S. to carry out substantial trade, including trade in services or technology, principally between the U.S. and the treaty country. Trade, as defined, must involve an exchange of goods, money, or services. Virtually any goods or services can meet this requirement. The transaction flow between the two countries should be verifiable, typically done through documents such as purchase orders, wire transfers, or bills of lading. To determine the substantiality of the trade, the Department of State (DOS) will assess the frequency and monetary value of the transactions. More regular, high-value transactions are given greater consideration. However, smaller businesses can also qualify if they can demonstrate that the transaction volume is sufficient to support the treaty trader(s) and their family. The DOS applies a general rule stating that at least 50% of the trade must be between the United States and the treaty country. Thus, applicants should provide evidence of their total business transactions and proof that a minimum of 50% is between the two countries. The remaining trade can be domestic or international with other countries. Even if a US-based subsidiary meets the 50% requirement, the parent company abroad does not necessarily need to conduct 50% of its trade with the United States. Due to the requirement of demonstrating substantial trade history, it may be challenging for early-stage startups to qualify for an E-1. This visa type is more frequently used by established entrepreneurs with a foreign business and a US customer base, who wish to continue their operations in the US. In some instances, foreign firms aiming to penetrate the US market may use an E-1 for a newly established US subsidiary and start moving inventory for sale in the US. In this case, all trade may be between the foreign parent and US subsidiary, thereby comfortably meeting the 50% threshold. E-2 Treaty Investor Visa E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is for citizens of countries that have a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. 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For instance, suppose one co-founder is American and the other is French, and they each own 50% of the company, contributing $40,000 from their personal wealth as initial capital for the company. To raise additional funds, they each decide to swap 7% of their equity (14% in total) with an angel investor for $150,000. If the angel investor is also French, then 57% of the company is now owned by French nationals; but if the angel is a U.S. citizen, then only 43% of the company is French, and it no longer qualifies as a French company for E-2 purposes. In this scenario, the founders will need to switch to another visa type before the equity exchange, as their E-2 will no longer be valid when the company loses its treaty nationality. A central concern for every E-2 application is the "source of funds." The applicant must clearly demonstrate the lawful origin of their investment funds, along with evidence of ownership and control. Moreover, to be classified as an E-2 investment, the invested assets or funds must be "at risk." This means that if the business fails, the investment is proportionately lost. Though the investment capital may be loan-based, the loan cannot be secured against the assets of the E-2 enterprise. Personal loans, which may be secured by personal assets like a second mortgage or unsecured loans typically obtained from family, friends, or business partners, are permissible. O-1 Visa The O-1 visa category is a unique and advantageous option for startup entrepreneurs and business owners who have demonstrated exceptional prowess in their field. The O-1A visa variant specifically caters to individuals exhibiting extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics. This makes it a viable avenue for those looking to establish or expand their business ventures in the US without the necessity of maintaining an overseas office or providing evidence of trade and investment, as required by L-1 and E-1/E-2 visas. Unlike the more traditional visa categories, the O-1A visa shifts the emphasis onto the beneficiary's individual achievements within their domain. It demands that the beneficiary meets at least three of the eight regulatory criteria set forth by the US Immigration Services. These criteria form a comprehensive measure of the individual's accomplishments, recognition, and overall standing in their respective field. For instance, if the beneficiary has been the recipient of nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards, it highlights their excellence and industry-leading competence. Alternatively, membership in prestigious associations which require commendable achievements as judged by recognized experts can also serve as evidence of their extraordinary ability. The O-1 visa offers an alternate route that places an emphasis on individual expertise and recognition in the applicant's field, rather than specific trade or investment quotas. This visa is especially beneficial for those who have demonstrated exceptional capability and achieved a high degree of success in their respective business domain. Overall, the O-1A visa offers an effective immigration route for extraordinarily talented entrepreneurs and business owners. By meeting and surpassing the eligibility criteria, they can gain access to the vast opportunities in the US market, thereby furthering their business ventures and contributing to the economic growth and diversification of the US. Conclusion For foreign entrepreneurs and investors, several U.S. immigration options are available: the E-1 treaty trader visa, the E-2 treaty investor visa, the L-1 intra-company transferee visa, and the O-1 visa for individuals with extraordinary ability. While E-1 and E-2 visas center on trade and investment respectively, the L-1 is for managers or executives transferring to a U.S. branch of their company, and the O-1 visa acknowledges individual expertise and accomplishments. Each visa has unique prerequisites, necessitating the guidance of an immigration attorney for optimal strategy selection. Correct navigation of these options opens vast U.S. entrepreneurial opportunities and resources.
In years past, spouses of certain E and L visa categories were required to apply for and receive an Employment Authorization Document in order to work in the United States. However, as the result of a settlement reached by USCIS in the class action lawsuit Shergill v. Mayorkas on November 10, 2021, USCIS now considers E and L dependent spouses to be authorized for employment incident to their status.
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On March 31, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) implemented a policy update that limits gender marker selections on all immigration forms and systems to two biological sexes: male and female. This change eliminates the option for applicants to select a non-binary or “X” gender marker—an option that had previously been permitted on some forms. While USCIS emphasizes that this update does not change who qualifies for immigration benefits, it may significantly impact how certain applications—particularly asylum claims based on gender identity-related persecution—are understood and evaluated. What Has Changed? Under the revised policy, applicants may now only choose “Male” or “Female” when completing USCIS forms. The ability to select a non-binary or third-gender option is no longer available. Applicants may still request to change their gender marker with USCIS, but only within the male/female binary. Supporting documentation, such as medical or legal records, is not required to make the change. This means that transgender individuals can still align their gender marker with their identity—if it falls within the two binary categories—but non-binary individuals are no longer represented. The change follows guidance issued by the federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB), which called for greater consistency in the collection of sex and gender data across federal agencies. Impact on Asylum Applicants This policy update is especially important for individuals applying for asylum based on persecution related to their gender identity. Under U.S. immigration law, asylum is available to people who have suffered persecution—or fear future persecution—based on their membership in a “particular social group.” This includes people targeted for being transgender, gender non-conforming, or otherwise not aligning with socially expected gender roles in their home country. Although the legal standard for asylum remains unchanged, the removal of the non-binary gender marker could make it harder for some applicants to clearly present and document their identity. In asylum cases, credibility and clarity are crucial. The ability to accurately reflect one’s gender identity on official forms can play an important role in establishing the foundation of a persecution claim. Now, applicants who identify as non-binary or outside the traditional male/female categories may be forced to select a gender that does not align with their lived experience. This could lead to confusion in their case file or require additional explanation during interviews or hearings. This policy could weaken the strength of some asylum claims—not because the underlying facts have changed, but because the official forms now fail to reflect the applicant’s true identity. For example: A non-binary person applying for asylum after being targeted in their home country may now have to select “Male” or “Female” on their asylum application, despite not identifying as either. This mismatch may lead adjudicators to question the applicant’s identity, possibly weakening the strength of the claim or requiring added clarification and documentation. In defensive asylum cases—where applicants are in removal proceedings—such inconsistencies could create unnecessary hurdles and complicate the evidentiary presentation. What Can Applicants Do? Despite the change, individuals can still pursue asylum based on gender identity. The underlying eligibility criteria remain the same. However, applicants should be prepared to clearly explain any differences between their stated identity and the gender marker required on USCIS forms. Applicants are encouraged to: Include a personal declaration explaining their gender identity in detail and how it relates to their fear of persecution. Provide evidence such as affidavits, country condition reports, or expert testimony that supports the claim. Work with an experienced immigration attorney who can help present the claim effectively and prepare for any questions that might arise from the new form limitations. The new USCIS policy on gender markers may seem like a technical update, but for asylum seekers fleeing gender-based persecution, it has real implications. While individuals are still legally eligible to seek protection, the limitation to binary gender options could make it more difficult to fully and clearly present their case. If you or someone you know is facing immigration challenges related to gender identity—or is concerned about how this policy may impact an asylum claim—please contact Santos Lloyd Law Firm to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced immigration attorneys. We’re here to help ensure your voice is heard and your case is handled with the care and expertise it deserves.
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For international business owners and entrepreneurs engaged in cross-border trade with the United States , the opportunity to expand operations and establish a physical presence in the U.S. may be more accessible than expected. The E-1 Treaty Trader Visa is specifically designed to facilitate this type of business activity and offers a strategic pathway for qualifying individuals to live and work in the United States while managing or developing trade relationships. While 2025 has brought a trend of changes in immigration policy, the E-1 visa continues to stand out as a viable and welcoming option . Despite increased scrutiny across various immigration categories, this visa remains suitable for those involved in consistent, qualifying trade with the U.S. Its structure and purpose align well with current business realities, making it a stable choice even amid policy shifts. The E-1 visa is available to nationals of countries that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States . To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that they are engaged in substantial trade—defined as a continuous flow of sizable international transactions—primarily between their home country and the U.S. Unlike investment-based visas, the E-1 visa does not require a fixed monetary threshold. Instead, it emphasizes active commercial exchange, such as the regular transfer of goods, services, or technology. This visa is applicable across a wide range of industries , including but not limited to manufacturing, logistics, professional services, consulting, finance, tourism, and technology. If more than 50% of your international trade is with the United States, and the business activity is consistent and well-documented, the E-1 visa may be a strong fit for your current business model. In addition to its flexibility, the E-1 visa is renewable as long as the trade activity continues. It also extends benefits to eligible family members: spouses and unmarried children under 21 may accompany the principal visa holder, and spouses are eligible to apply for U.S. work authorization, offering added support and financial opportunity for the family. This visa category is particularly well-suited for business professionals who are already operating in international markets and looking to formalize or expand their presence in the U.S. It rewards active engagement, proven commercial performance, and long-term trade partnerships. If you are currently engaged in trade with the United States and are considering expanding your business operations, the E-1 Treaty Trader Visa may provide a clear and effective route forward. Our attorneys at Santos Lloyd Law Firm are here to help you assess your qualifications and guide you through each stage of the process with clarity, strategy, and confidence.
