U.S. Business Immigration Programmes
U.S. Business Immigration Programmes
The United States offers several business and investment-based immigration pathways for foreign entrepreneurs, investors, business owners, and executives who want to establish, acquire, manage, or expand a business in the country. Common routes include the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa, EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, and L-1 Intracompany Transferee route.
Applicants must first obtain the Nulla Osta (Certificate of No Impediment) from the Investor Visa for Italy Committee, apply for the investor visa, complete the investment within three months of arrival, and maintain the qualifying investment throughout the residence period.
"A straightforward European residency route with flexible investment options and no minimum stay requirement."
— U.S. Business Immigration ProgrammesKey Benefits of U.S. Business Immigration
U.S. business immigration provides opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs to establish businesses, access the U.S. market, include eligible family members, and explore long-term immigration options.
Flexible Investment Routes
Applicants can choose between innovative startups, Italian companies, government bonds, or approved philanthropic initiatives.
Access to the U.S. Market
Italian residency allows visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area, including 29 European countries. Residence permit holders may stay in other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180 days without obtaining an additional visa.
Live & Work in the United States
Applicants are not required to pass a language test or meet a minimum physical stay requirement to obtain or maintain their residency under the programme.
Family Inclusion
The programme allows eligible applicants to include their spouse, dependent children under 18, and financially dependent parents aged 65 years or above under one application.
Business Expansion Opportunities
Italian residency provides the right to live, work, and study in Italy while enjoying one of Europe's highest standards of living, world-class healthcare, renowned universities, and a rich cultural heritage.
Long-Term Business Flexibility
Italy offers a Special Tax Regime for New Residents, allowing qualifying high-net-worth individuals to pay a substitute annual tax on foreign income instead of ordinary Italian income tax, subject to programme requirements.
Potential Permanent Residence Pathways
Eligible applicants may apply for permanent residency after five years and Italian citizenship after ten years, provided all residency and legal requirements are satisfied.
Who Can Apply?
The U.S. Business Immigration Programmes is available to eligible third-country nationals who meet the programme's legal and investment requirements.
Treaty Country Eligibility
Applicants must meet the nationality and eligibility requirements of their selected U.S. immigration route.
Lawful Source of Funds
Applicants must have a clean criminal record and demonstrate good character.
Genuine Business Activity
Applicants must be in good health and provide the required medical documentation.
Commit Required Investment
Applicants must complete the qualifying investment within three months of entering Italy.
Maintain Business Operations
The qualifying investment must be maintained throughout the validity of the residence permit.
Family Eligibility
Eligible family members may include the applicant's spouse, dependent children under 18 years of age, and financially dependent parents aged 65 years or above.
Investment Options & Costs
Applicants may select from different U.S. business immigration pathways depending on their objectives and eligibility.
E-2 Treaty Investor
Invest a minimum of $800,000 in an innovative Italian start-up registered with the Italian Chambers of Commerce.
EB-5 Standard Investment
Invest a minimum of $1,050,000 in shares of an operating Italian joint-stock company established in accordance with Italian legislation.
Additional Costs: In addition to the qualifying investment, applicants should budget for professional advisory fees, document legalisation and certification, courier charges, government administrative fees, and other related application expenses.
Your Business Immigration Journey
SEG provides expert support throughout every stage of your U.S. business immigration and investment journey.
Initial Consultation
SEG evaluates your eligibility, investment objectives, and family circumstances before recommending the most suitable investment route.
Document Preparation
Our specialists assist with preparing, reviewing, and organising all required documents to ensure full compliance with the Italian Government's requirements.
Application Submission
Your Investor Visa application is submitted to the Italian Investor Visa Committee for assessment.
Nulla Osta Approval
Following a successful review, the Investor Visa Committee issues the Nulla Osta (Certificate of No Impediment). SEG then coordinates your appointment with the nearest Italian Embassy or Consulate to obtain your entry visa.
Travel to Italy
After receiving your Investor Visa, you travel to Italy and submit your residence permit application within eight working days of arrival.
Complete Your Investment
Following approval of your residency application, you complete the selected qualifying investment within the required timeframe and submit proof of investment to the authorities.
Residence Permit & Renewal
Your residence permit is issued for two years and may be renewed for an additional three years, provided the original investment is maintained. Eligible applicants may subsequently qualify for permanent residency and, later, Italian citizenship in accordance with Italian law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Start Your U.S. Business Immigration Journey
SEG can help you evaluate suitable U.S. business immigration routes, understand investment requirements, and prepare a structured path towards establishing your U.S. business presence.
Contact an Authorised Advisor