United States EB2 Visa
The EB2 Visa program grants a Green Card (full permanent residency status) for entrepreneurs with innovative ideas who will spur economic growth.
The EB-2 Visa program requires a financial commitment of at least USD 250,000 with a incubation period of 12 months.
United States EB2 Visa Benefits
Residency and Family Inclusion
- Obtaining a Green Card (unconditional permanent residence status) in USA for the investor and family members.
Dependents family members included:
- Spouse.
- Children under 21.
Travel and Quality of Life
Right to live, work, and study in the USA.
Ease of Access
- No language requirement.
- Fast processing time.
- Pathway to U.S. citizenship after 5 years of residence in USA.
United States EB2 Visa Requirements
- Advanced degree: Bachelor’s degree + 5 years’ work experience in the same field.
- The applicant’s work experience must include management experience.
- The project must have substantial merit, be of national importance, and beneficial to the U.S.
- Main applicant must demonstrate that they are innovative entrepreneurs and well-positioned to advance the venture.
- Must provide proof of lawful source of funds used for the investment.
eb2 investment Visa Options
EB2 Start-up Investment
- Start-up entrepreneur investment of at least 250,000 USD.
- Research & Development: a significant part of the investment at least 30,000 USD) must be reserved for R&D.
- Research and Development must be supported by governmentally backed U.S. research facilities.
- Secure the commitments of a business incubator and U.S. Agencies.
- Main applicant owns 100% of the legal entity conducting the business innovation project in the U.S.
United States EB2 Visa Process
EB2 Processing time 12-16 Months
Premium processing time is 45 days
Due Diligence And Application
- Submit the completed application forms and required documents.
- Obtain the National Interest Waiver.
- File for the immigrant visa/adjustment of status allowing the applicant and family members to get their green cards.
Approval And Investment
- The application processing time varies according to the investor’s country of chargeability.
- Typical processing time is within 12-16 months for countries not experiencing backlog.
- Countries experiencing high EB-2 Green Cards demand are subject to a backlog delaying the processing time.
Residency
The applicant receives the United States EB-2 Visa.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is EB2 Visa Program?
The EB-2 Investment Visa, also known as the National Interest Waiver (NIW) visa, offers a unique opportunity for skilled entrepreneurs and professionals to obtain permanent residency in the United States. This visa category combines business acumen with national interest, making it an attractive option for those looking to invest their talents and resources in the American economy.
What industries are best suited for the EB-2 Investment Visa?
Industries with potential for significant economic impact or innovation, such as technology, healthcare, and renewable energy, are often viewed favorably.
Can I include my family in the EB-2 visa application?
Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can be included as dependents on your application
How much is the required investment for the EB-2 SUV USA Stream with Empowered Startups?
The EB-2 SUV USA Stream requires a minimum investment of USD 250,000.
What are the benefits of participating in the EB2 Visa Program?
The EB2 Visa program grants successful applicants permanent residency in the USA.
Is a job offer necessary to apply for an EB-2 visa?
A job offer is not required for the National Interest Waiver category of EB-2.
What is a National Interest Waiver, and how does it relate to the EB-2 visa?
The National Interest Waiver permits applicants to seek an EB-2 visa without a job offer.
What are the eligibility criteria for EB2?
National Interest Waiver eligibility requires demonstrating substantial merit, the applicant’s capability, and the benefit to the USA of waiving the job offer.
What is the purpose of Form I-140 in the EB-2 visa application process?
Form I-140 is used by employers to request USCIS to classify a noncitizen as eligible for an employment-based immigrant visa.
Are there any language requirements for the EB-2 visa application?
There is no language requirement for EB-2 applications; however, English proficiency aids project management.
What background or business experience is required to apply for the EB-2 visa?
EB-2 applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and five years of work experience, including management experience
Which industries or sectors are recommended for applicants in this program?
Applicants can propose businesses in any industry that aligns with their skills and past experience.
Is it possible to apply for the EB-2 visa without participation in a business incubator?
A business incubator and U.S. Agency support are necessary for the EB-2 Startup Visa application.
What does "well-positioned to conduct the project" mean in the context of the EB2?
Being “well-positioned to conduct the project” considers the applicant’s skills, experience, and business track record.
Does the SUV application process require travel or residency in the USA?
Residency or travel to the USA is not required during the EB-2 SUV application process.
Is proof of the source and path of investment funds required for the EB2?
Applicants must verify the source and path of their investment funds.
What is covered by the $250,000 investment in the SUV USA program?
The USD 250,000 investment in the SUV USA program includes incubation fees, R&D, and capitalization.
Will applicants receive a refund of their investment if the EB-2 visa application is denied?
Applicants receive a refund of the full USD 250,000 investment if the application is refused.
Are funds invested before or after the EB2 visa application is filed?
Funds must be deposited into an escarp account prior to application submission and remain committed during the process.
How long must the investment remain in the USA?
No minimum duration is required to keep the investment in the USA.
What percentage of shares does Empowered Startups acquire in the venture?
Empowered Startups does not take equity; the applicant retains 100% ownership.
When must business activities or operations commence under the EB2 visa?
Business activities start after application approval.
What are the implications if the EB2 project declares bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy of the EB-2 project does not impact the granted permanent status.
Where will the business incubation take place?
Incubation occurs at the Empowered Startups U.S. office in Pullman, Washington State.
Where is the research and development facility located for this program?
The R&D facility is located at Washington State University and University of Idaho.
What is the duration of the incubation term in the EB2?
The incubation term lasts 12 months.
Is the EB2 visa for foreign workers?
Yes, the EB-2 visa is for foreign workers. It is an employment-based immigrant visa category for:
- Professionals with advanced degrees (master’s or higher) or equivalent experience
- Individuals with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business
Typically, it requires a job offer and labor certification from a U.S. employer, but some applicants may qualify for a National Interest Waiver, allowing them to self-petition. It leads to permanent residency (green card) in the U.S.
How long is EB2 visa valid for?
The EB-2 visa is only valid for a period of 270 days, so you must enter the United States within that specified time frame. It is important to adhere to this given window in order to be in compliance with the visa regulations.