U.S. investor visas are ideal options for obtaining permanent residency in the United States, expanding an existing company into the U.S. market, or establishing a startup in the States. Currently, there are two investment visas available under U.S. immigration law: the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa and the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa.
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows nationals of treaty countries to live and work in the United States on a temporary basis after investing a substantial amount of capital in a business they direct and control. The U.S. business may take the form of purchasing an existing business, opening a franchise, or starting a new enterprise. The visa also permits certain employees of the enterprise, who share the investor’s nationality, to relocate to the U.S. as E-2 employees.
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa, also known as the EB-5 green card, provides a direct path to U.S. permanent residency. Through this program, qualified investors and their families may live, work, and study anywhere in the United States.
Permanent residency is granted on the basis of a qualifying investment and the resulting job creation in the U.S. economy. Investors must contribute a minimum of $1,050,000 USD, or $800,000 USD if the enterprise is located in a designated Targeted Employment Area (TEA). Unlike other immigration categories, there are no education, language, or employer sponsorship requirements, making the EB-5 program an attractive option for individuals with the necessary financial resources.
In addition to the principal investor, a spouse and unmarried children under 21 may also obtain green cards under the same investment, with no need for additional contributions.
Trump Gold Card Visa
On September 19, 2025, a Presidential Executive Order introduced the “Trump Gold Card” visa program, designed to provide a path for foreign investors and entrepreneurs making significant financial gifts to the United States. Learn more about eligibility, process, costs, and the filing process.
The Barella Global Advantage
Barella Global offers clients a unique blend of U.S. immigration law expertise and international accessibility. With offices in London and Brussels, we work in our clients’ time zones, making communication seamless and efficient. Our team has extensive experience representing clients before U.S. embassies and consulates across the UK and Europe, giving us valuable insight into local procedures and expectations. Whether you are pursuing a family-based case, addressing admissibility issues, or seeking a corporate or investor visa, we provide strategic, results-focused guidance tailored to your goals.