Start-ups & Entrepreneurs
Whether you are an entrepreneur and capitalizing in the US while creating jobs for the unemployed, or a small startup utilizing the strong US economy to bolster your business, Mead Legal is here to assist you with the nuanced legal system and to ensure you do not get caught up in unnecessary delays. We assist you with your business needs, as well as helping you and your own family immigrate to enjoy the opportunities the United States has to offer.
Blanket L
An advantageous option for larger multinational corporations that are looking to bring their talent over when expanding in the United States. In order to qualify for the blanket L, the US entity must demonstrate:
- frequently use the L-1 category,
- have been doing business in the US for at least one year,
- have three or more domestic, and foreign branches, affiliates, subsidiaries, and
- the domestic and foreign organizations have: obtained at least 10 L-petition approvals during the previous 12 months; have US companies or affiliates, with a combined annual sale of at least $25 million; or have a US workforce of at least 1000 employees.
E-1/E-2
Also known as the Treaty/Trader visas, these treaty-based business visas cater to individuals and businesses seeking to engage in trade, investment, or establish their own enterprises in the US.
We provide comprehensive guidance on eligibility, documentation, and the complex legal requirements associated with these visa categories, ensuring our clients have the best chance in obtaining approval.
E1: to Trade
To qualify for an E-1, the foreign national must:
- Be from a country which maintains a commerce/navigation treaty with the United States;
- Carry substantial trade;
- Carry on principal trade between the US and treaty country to which qualified the foreign national for the E-1 trade-classification
Check the United States Department of State website
here, to check if your country is on the list.
E2: to Invest
Similar to the E-1, the foreign national must be from a country with which the United States maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation. Separate to the E-1, the E-2 must demonstrate:
- Be invested or be actively in the process of investing a substantial amount of capital in a genuine organization in the United States;
- Meet the relevant laws for definitions of ‘employee’;
- Be either engaged in duties of an executive, or supervisory in nature; or if employed in a lesser capacity, have special qualifications
If the principal employer is not an individual but rather an organization, that organization
EB-5
The E-B5 is a visa program designed for those looking to invest larger sums of money in the United States. Ultimately, a pathway to a green card for investing in the United States, we assist clients with the intricate requirements necessary.
Two approved investment choices available to foreign investors are:
- One of about 800 preapproved Regional Centres; or
- To Create your Own Commercial enterprise that meets strict government regulations.
An E-B5 investor must:
- Invest or be actively in the process of investing;
- Meet the new commercial enterprise standard; and
- Ensure they are creating jobs
We also assist our clients in navigating the complicated financial disclosure requirements.
B1/B2 Business or Tourist Visa
Looking to visit the US for a holiday; attend a conference; sign a contract; or simply look into to the market first? The B-visas are temporary, nonimmigrant visas that allow the holder to enter the US multiple times for quick tourism or business purposes. Wait times can vary; check the US Department of State website
here for your local Consulate appointment wait time.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
The Visa Waiver Program is designed for nationals of participating countries to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) and travel to the United States for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. The ESTA allows for similar travel purposes permitted under the B visa. Australian citizens are eligible to apply and use the VWP.
Visitors must obtain an approval prior to travel, and do not need a third party to apply. For more information, visit the
US Department of State website,
CONTACT US
For general resources, news, and updates navigate to our blog and stay up to date.