If you’re a foreign national interested in doing business in the United States, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not without options. The U.S. remains one of the most open, entrepreneur-friendly economies in the world, and foreign investors play a key role in driving innovation and job creation across the country.
But what kind of business can a foreigner actually start in the U.S.? And what are the limits—if any?
Let’s break it down.
Can a Foreigner Start a Business in the U.S.?
Yes. Foreign nationals can start or own a business in the U.S., even without living in the country. There are no restrictions on the type of business model a foreigner can pursue—whether you want to open a restaurant, run an e-commerce company, launch a tech startup, or buy a light manufacturing company, it’s all legally possible.
In fact, the U.S. allows foreigners to form legal business entities like LLCs or corporations just like U.S. citizens and residents.
However—owning a business is not the same as working in it.
Can a Foreigner Work in Their U.S. Business?
This is where many entrepreneurs get tripped up. While anyone can own a business, you cannot legally work for or operate your business from within the U.S. unless you have the appropriate visa.
Simply forming an LLC or opening a storefront does not give you the right to live or work in the U.S. To actively run and manage your business on U.S. soil, you need to apply for and receive the correct immigration status.
What Visa Options Are Available for Foreign Entrepreneurs?
Several investor and employment-based visa options are available for foreign nationals who want to both own and operate a business in the U.S.:
- E-2 Visa: For citizens of treaty countries who make a substantial investment in a U.S. business. Requires active involvement in business operations.
- EB-5 Visa: For investors who invest $800,000 or more and create at least 10 full-time jobs.
- L-1A Visa: For executives or managers of foreign companies being transferred to manage a U.S. affiliate, branch, or subsidiary.
- O-1 Visa: For individuals with extraordinary ability, often used by entrepreneurs in specific industries.
- H-1B or Employment-Based Visas: In some cases, entrepreneurs may qualify for employment-based visas under structured business models.
Each visa type has unique requirements, timelines, and long-term implications. Choosing the right one depends on your financial capacity, home country, business experience, and long-term immigration goals.
Are There Limits on the Type of Business You Can Start?
Legally, no. Foreigners are free to operate any lawful business model, from brick-and-mortar retail to SaaS platforms, manufacturing, real estate services, online businesses, or franchises. However, some business types may raise more scrutiny during the visa process—especially if the model seems too passive, speculative, or does not require your active involvement.
The business you pursue must align with the expectations of the visa type you’re applying for. For example:
- E-2 visa applicants must actively develop and direct the business.
- L-1A visa holders must demonstrate managerial or executive control.
- EB-5 applicants must meet specific job creation and investment thresholds.
That’s why choosing the right business is just as important as launching it.
Final Thoughts: Set Yourself Up for Success from Day One
We help foreign investors identify and buy U.S. business opportunities or launch their own startup through a proven, proprietary methodology that aligns with your financial and immigration goals.
This is the first step in the process. Once you’ve chosen the right business, we help you:
- Write a solid, credible business plan tailored for your visa application
- Ensure your business is structured for long-term success and visa renewals
- Support growth through smart bookkeeping and compliance tools to keep your operations profitable and on track
We offer a complete set of tools to help foreign entrepreneurs not only launch—but sustain and grow—a thriving business in the United States.
Contact us today to get started. Your U.S. business success starts with the right strategy—and the right team behind you.
Contact us today to get started
The information provided in this blog is intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, it should not be considered legal advice. Immigration laws and regulations are subject to change, and individual circumstances can vary widely. For personalized guidance and legal advice regarding your specific immigration situation, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration attorney who can provide you with tailored assistance and ensure compliance with current laws and regulations.
Visa Business Plans is led by Marco Scanu, a certified coach from the University of Miami with a globally-based practice coaching Fortune 1000 company executives, entrepreneurs, as well as professionals in four different continents. Mr. Scanu advises clients on turnaround strategies and crisis management.
Mr. Scanu received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Cum Laude) from the University of Florida and an MBA in Management from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. Mr. Scanu was also a Visiting Scholar at Michigan State University under the prestigious H. Humphrey Fellowship (Fulbright program) with a focus on Entrepreneurship, Venture Capital, and high-growth enterprises.
At present, Mr. Scanu is the managing partner and CEO at Visa Business Plans, a Miami-based boutique consulting firm providing attorneys and investors with business planning services in the areas of U.S. and Canadian immigration, SBA loans, and others.
If you are looking for any of the following, we can help you!
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