Can You Get a Visa by Registering a Company in the US? How Much Does It Cost Annually?

In the United States, starting a business and obtaining a visa are two distinct processes, but they can be interconnected in certain circumstances. The question of whether one can obtain a visa by registering a company in the U.S. is nuanced and depends on various factors, including the type of visa sought and the nature of the business. Additionally, the cost associated with maintaining such a venture varies significantly based on the scale and location of the operation.

To begin with, entrepreneurs interested in establishing a business in the U.S. often look to visas that allow them to work and reside legally in the country. One of the most common options for this group is the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa. This visa is designed for individuals who invest a substantial amount of capital into a U.S.-based enterprise. While there is no fixed minimum investment amount, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services USCIS generally expects the investment to be sufficient to create jobs and sustain the business. For instance, according to recent reports, many applicants secure this visa by investing between $150,000 and $350,000, depending on the industry and location.

The process of obtaining an E-2 visa involves several steps. First, the applicant must establish a qualifying business entity in the U.S., which could range from a small retail store to a tech startup. Once the business is up and running, the applicant must demonstrate that they have made a significant financial commitment to the venture. This might involve proving that they own at least 50% of the business or hold a controlling interest. Furthermore, the business must generate enough revenue to support itself and its employees, thereby contributing positively to the local economy.

While the E-2 visa offers a pathway for entrepreneurs, it is not without its challenges. For one, the visa is only available to citizens of countries that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the U.S. As of now, over 80 nations qualify, including Canada, Germany, and Japan. If your country does not have such a treaty, you may need to explore alternative visa categories, such as the L-1A Intracompany Transferee Visa, which allows executives or managers to transfer to a U.S. branch of their company.

Beyond the E-2 visa, other options exist for those seeking to combine business ownership with residency. The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, for example, offers a route to permanent residency for investors who commit a minimum of $900,000 to a U.S.-based project that creates at least ten jobs. This program has gained attention due to its relatively straightforward path to green cards, although it comes with higher financial requirements compared to the E-2 visa.

Now, let's address the financial aspect of maintaining a U.S.-based business. Depending on the industry and location, annual expenses can vary widely. For a small business, typical costs might include office rent, utilities, employee salaries, insurance, marketing, and compliance fees. According to recent surveys, the average small business in the U.S. spends approximately $675 per month on office space alone, while salaries for entry-level positions typically range from $30,000 to $40,000 annually. Additionally, businesses must account for state and federal taxes, which can add another layer of complexity to budgeting.

It's worth noting that some entrepreneurs opt to hire legal and accounting professionals to help navigate the complexities of U.S. business regulations and immigration policies. These services can be costly, but they often prove invaluable in ensuring compliance and maximizing opportunities. For instance,

In conclusion, while registering a company in the U.S. does not automatically guarantee a visa, it can serve as a foundation for pursuing legal residency through specific visa programs. The cost of maintaining a business in the U.S. depends heavily on the scale and nature of the enterprise, but entrepreneurs should anticipate spending anywhere from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. Whether you're aiming for an E-2 visa, EB-5 residency, or another option, careful planning and professional guidance are essential to achieving your goals. By understanding the requirements and costs involved, aspiring business owners can make informed decisions about their ventures and their future in the United States.