We recently heard from an EB2/NIW applicant who wanted help responding to a Request for Evidence (RFE). He had created his own business plan to save money, but now, faced with an RFE, he realized that he might have underestimated how complex this process really is.
Yes, we can help.
Yes, we will research, analyze, and work tirelessly to improve his chances of overcoming this setback.
And yes, we’ve successfully handled countless RFEs by delivering strategic, business-focused plans with credible projections that directly support the applicant’s goals.
But submitting a business plan without understanding the intersection of immigration law and business strategy is a risky move—and one we strongly advise against.
Here’s why:
1. Immigration Law Isn’t Black and White
U.S. immigration law isn’t rigid or formulaic. It’s built on precedent and interpretation and it’s far more complex than what Google shows. That’s why it’s critical to work with an experienced immigration attorney—especially one who regularly handles EB2/NIW petitions.
A good attorney would never allow a client to submit a generic or self-made business plan. Why? Because an EB2/NIW business plan isn’t your standard business document. It’s a highly strategic tool crafted to show exactly what immigration officers want and expect to see.
Smart attorneys know this. They wouldn’t risk their success rate or their reputation just to save their client a few dollars. They’ll use every tool in their arsenal to get a positive outcome—and they know that one of the most powerful tools is a professionally prepared immigration business plan.
2. What Works in Business Can Backfire in Immigration
You might think your strategy is strong from a business standpoint—but what looks solid to an investor might raise red flags with an adjudicator.
For example:
Having funds sitting in a bank account might be seen as financial strength in the business world. But to an immigration officer, it can signal hesitation or lack of commitment.
Or maybe your proposed endeavor might make sense from a business standpoint, but it likely won’t lead to visa approval if it isn’t aligned with the current policies of the White House.
Even as a savvy entrepreneur, you don’t know what you don’t know. And what you don’t know can hurt your petition.
3. What You Share Cannot Be Taken Back
Once you submit a business plan to USCIS, it becomes part of your official record. Officers can’t “unsee” it, and you can’t take it back. That’s why every statement, projection, and detail in your business plan must be aligned with visa regulations.
You don’t want to include too much—and you definitely don’t want to include the wrong thing.
A strong immigration business plan says just enough. It avoids exaggerations, vague claims, and any language that could later be used against you. If you don’t have deep experience in immigration business planning, how will you know what to include—and what to leave out?
4. Getting It Right the First Time Is Easier Than Fixing It Later
An RFE is issued when an immigration officer is unsure about a case and needs more information to decide. That means doubt has already been introduced.
It’s always better to submit a strong case from the beginning than to try to fix it after doubt has set in. Responding to an RFE from a professionally prepared case is one thing. Trying to build a credible case after submitting a DIY business plan is an uphill battle.
At Visa Business Plans, we’ve helped countless clients and attorneys respond to RFEs with solid, strategic, and realistic immigration business plans. But relying on a last-minute lifeline is risky. Doing it right from the start gives you the best chance of success—and spares you time, stress, and costly delays.
If you’re serious about your EB2/NIW petition, don’t cut corners. Let us help you build a business plan that works for immigration—not just business.
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.
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