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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. To qualify for an E-2 visa, an entrepreneur must be coming to the United States to develop and direct the operations of a business in which they have invested, or are in the process of investing, a substantial amount of capital. In the classic example of an E-2 investment, the E-2 investor transfers their personal wealth from a foreign bank account into the bank account of their new US enterprise, thereby establishing their investment. However, the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM) provides some flexibility, enabling the officer to consider other "arrangements" as an "investment." For those not intending to finance the E-2 enterprise entirely or partially with their personal funds, the nationality of other investors needs to be considered to ensure that at least 50% of the company shares remain in the hands of nationals from the E-2 treaty country. 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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Click here to read this article in Portuguese
If you’ve recently received the exciting news that your O-1 visa has been approved, congratulations! The O-1 is a prestigious visa, granted only to individuals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in their field — whether it’s O-1A: individuals with an extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics, or O-1B: individuals with an extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry. Getting O-1 approval is no small feat, and it’s a true validation of your talent and hard work. But for many O-1 visa holders, that approval brings up the next big question — what’s the path to securing a green card? For those aiming to remain in the United States permanently, the EB-1A visa is often the natural next step. It’s also known as the green card for individuals of extraordinary ability, which makes it a close cousin to the O-1. Obtaining U.S. permanent residency through EB-1A involves two steps: 1) securing approval of the EB-1A immigration petition (Form 1-40) and 2) adjusting status to that of permanent resident or seeking consular processing. However, while these two categories share similarities, they are not identical. The EB-1A standard is significantly higher, and many O-1 holders underestimate just how much more evidence they need to present to qualify for permanent residency. The good news is, if you’re proactive and strategic about building your case, you can significantly improve your chances of success. Understanding the Difference Between O-1 and EB-1A Both the O-1 and EB-1A visas focus on individuals with extraordinary ability, but they serve different purposes. The O-1 is a temporary work visa that allows you to come to the U.S. to work on specific projects or for a particular employer. It requires a U.S. sponsor to file the petition on your behalf. The EB-1A, by contrast, is an immigrant visa — it is the first step toward obtaining permanent residency. Because the EB-1A leads to permanent residency, its eligibility standards are even higher. You must not only demonstrate extraordinary ability but also show that your recognition is sustained over time and that your work has had a lasting impact on your field. What Can You Reuse From Your O-1 Case? If you put together a strong O-1 petition, some of the evidence you submitted will still be valuable for EB-1A. This includes your awards, media coverage, expert letters, and proof of memberships in prestigious organizations. But the EB-1A demands more — you need to go beyond showing what you’ve accomplished and prove that your influence is ongoing, impactful, and recognized at a national or international level. How to Strengthen Your Case While on O-1 One of the smartest moves you can make is to use your time on the O-1 visa to actively strengthen your EB-1A profile. This means seeking out opportunities to get your work featured in top-tier media, publishing more original contributions, judging competitions, and taking leadership roles in your professional community. Every action you take to enhance your visibility and influence. Final Thoughts — The Path from O-1 to EB-1A is Achievable You may not be able to file your EB-1A today, but we can help you build your case step by step. Whether you need guidance on strengthening your profile, identifying the right evidence, or preparing a strategic filing plan, our team is here to support you. If you’re currently on an O-1 visa and you believe you may be eligible for an EB-1A visa in the future, we encourage you to contact our office. Our experienced attorneys have helped countless individuals successfully navigate this path, and we would be happy to review your case and create a personalized roadmap for your green card journey.
In January 2025, the U.S. government introduced a mandate requiring all individuals without legal status in the country to register with federal authorities. This initiative aims to enhance national security and ensure compliance with existing immigration laws. If you or someone you know is affected by this change, it's essential to understand the specifics of this requirement and how to comply. Who Is Already Registered? Many individuals have already fulfilled their registration obligations through prior interactions with U.S. immigration authorities. You are considered registered if you have been issued any of the following documents: Lawful Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) Form I-94 or I-94W (Arrival/Departure Record), even if the period of admission has expired Immigrant or nonimmigrant visa issued before arrival Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Border Crossing Card Additionally, if you have applied for lawful permanent residence using forms such as I-485, I-687, I-691, I-698, or I-700, even if the applications were denied, or if you were paroled into the U.S. under INA 212(d)(5), you have met the registration requirement. Who Needs to Register Now? If you have not been registered through any of the means mentioned above, you are required to register under the new mandate. This includes: Individuals aged 14 or older who were not registered and fingerprinted when applying for a visa and have remained in the U.S. for 30 days or longer. They must apply before the expiration of those 30 days. Parents or legal guardians of children under 14 who have not been registered and have been in the U.S. for 30 days or longer. They must register their children before the 30-day period ends. Any individual who turns 14 years old in the U.S. and was previously registered. They must apply for re-registration and fingerprinting within 30 days after their 14th birthday. Notably, American Indians born in Canada who entered the U.S. under section 289 of the INA and members of the Texas Band of Kickapoo Indians who entered under the Texas Band of Kickapoo Act are exempt from this requirement. How to Register The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is developing a new form and process for registration. Starting February 25, 2025 , individuals required to register should create a USCIS online account in preparation for the registration process. Once the process is implemented, registrations will be submitted through this online account. Important Considerations Registration Is Not an Immigration Status: Completing the registration does not grant any immigration status, employment authorization, or other rights or benefits under U.S. law. Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with the registration requirement may result in fines, imprisonment, or both. At Santos Lloyd Law Firm, P.C., we are committed to guiding you through this process with compassion and expertise. Our trusted immigration lawyers are here to provide the information and assistance you need during this time. For personalized guidance and support, please contact Santos Lloyd Law Firm, P.C., and speak with one of our experienced immigration attorneys. We are dedicated to helping you navigate these changes and securing a hopeful future.
On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order imposing new restrictions on migrants, including limitations on asylum and humanitarian protections. The order directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to terminate all categorical parole programs that conflict with U.S. policies , which includes parole processes for Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan, and Venezuelan nationals. Additionally, this provision could impact parole programs for individuals from Afghanistan, Ukraine, and other countries. Beyond restricting parole, the executive order introduces several border security measures , including building more physical barriers, increasing the number of border personnel, and stopping the use of the CBP One mobile application . The order specifically directs the Department of Defense (DOD) and DHS to build more border walls to establish what it calls “complete operational control” of the southern border. Additionally, it ordered the immediate shutdown of the CBP One mobile app, which previously allowed asylum seekers to schedule appointments at U.S. Ports of Entry. As a result, all existing appointments have been canceled immediately . The order also initiates the reinstatement of the “Remain in Mexico” program , also known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) , across all sectors of the southern border. Under MPP, asylum seekers must remain in Mexico while awaiting the outcome of their U.S. immigration court proceedings, significantly altering the process for those seeking refuge in the country. These measures reinforce the Trump administration's broader effort to restrict asylum and humanitarian protections at the U.S. border . If you or someone you know may be affected by this executive order, it is essential to stay informed and understand your legal rights. Consulting with an immigration attorney can help navigate these evolving policies and ensure the best course of action moving forward.
