{"id":21766,"date":"2025-03-22T20:31:18","date_gmt":"2025-03-22T19:31:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/nicht-kategorisiert\/visa\/"},"modified":"2025-07-04T13:42:44","modified_gmt":"2025-07-04T11:42:44","slug":"visa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/en\/emigrate-usa\/visa\/","title":{"rendered":"L-1A or E-2 Visa: Transfer or investment"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uag-hide-mob uagb-block-c9b0e361 alignfull uagb-is-root-container\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-cool-to-warm-spectrum-gradient-background has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-c7f029802b07bc81a75158e7b8281732 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);font-size:48px;letter-spacing:10px;text-transform:none\"><strong>EXCURSIONS USA<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uag-hide-desktop uag-hide-tab uagb-block-5c09895b alignfull uagb-is-root-container\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-cool-to-warm-spectrum-gradient-background has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-1ff82aa21bbde8566d80c32bee378f81 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);font-size:18px;letter-spacing:2px;text-transform:none\"><strong>EXCURSIONS USA<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<nav aria-label=\"breadcrumbs\" class=\"rank-math-breadcrumb\"><p><span class=\"last\">Home<\/span><\/p><\/nav>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-924cd09b alignfull uagb-is-root-container\"><div class=\"uagb-container-inner-blocks-wrap\">\n<div class=\"uagb-position__sticky wp-block-uagb-container uag-hide-mob uagb-block-9ef8e0ed\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-info-box uagb-block-76d4b025 uagb-infobox__content-wrap  uagb-infobox-icon-above-title uagb-infobox-image-valign-top\"><div class=\"uagb-ifb-content\"><div class=\"uagb-ifb-image-content\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Florido-Einreise.jpg\" alt=\"Florido Entry in the USA\" width=\"400\" height=\"376\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/div><div class=\"uagb-ifb-title-wrap\"><p class=\"uagb-ifb-title\">Entering the USA | Information on ESTA &amp; customs  <\/p><\/div><p class=\"uagb-ifb-desc\">Entering the USA requires good preparation. Find out here what you need to do to avoid problems when entering the country.   <\/p><div class=\"uagb-ifb-button-wrapper wp-block-button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/en\/travel-planning\/entry-in-the-usa\/\" class=\"uagb-infobox-cta-link wp-block-button__link\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" onclick=\"return true;\"><span class=\"uagb-inline-editing\">LEARN MORE NOW<\/span><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M504.3 273.6l-112.1 104c-6.992 6.484-17.18 8.218-25.94 4.406c-8.758-3.812-14.42-12.45-14.42-21.1L351.9 288H32C14.33 288 .0002 273.7 .0002 255.1S14.33 224 32 224h319.9l0-72c0-9.547 5.66-18.19 14.42-22c8.754-3.809 18.95-2.075 25.94 4.41l112.1 104C514.6 247.9 514.6 264.1 504.3 273.6z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-941507ad\">\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">L-1A or E-2 visa &#8211; transfer or investment<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-nach-Florida.jpg\" alt=\"Emigration Visa Business\" class=\"wp-image-6563\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-nach-Florida.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-nach-Florida-340x102.jpg 340w, https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-nach-Florida-768x230.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Florida lifestyle starts with the necessary residence permit and visa.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"line-height:1.6\">Anyone <strong>relocating<\/strong> to the USA as a skilled worker or wanting to set up a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/en\/emigrate-usa\/us-business-setup\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"6561\">business <\/a>there as an <strong>investor<\/strong> has several visa options. Since June 2025, there have been important changes in both categories &#8211; from planned reforms and stricter entry checks to the introduction of a new <strong>Gold Card<\/strong>. You can find an overview of the latest information here.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Current status L and E visa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-2fa6b159 alignfull uagb-is-root-container\"><div class=\"uagb-container-inner-blocks-wrap\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\"><strong>L-1 visa<\/strong>: still available for internal transfers, social media check now mandatory<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\"><strong>EB-5 Visa: <\/strong>Still exists, minimum investment: 800,000 $ (TEA) \/ 1,050,000 $ (Standard)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\"><strong>Gold Card (new): <\/strong>Planned investor program starting at $5 million, to replace EB-5 in the future<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\"><strong>Entry bans: <\/strong>Proclamation 10949: Restrictions on applicants from 12 countries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\"><strong>Social media obligation: <\/strong>Mandatory for all visa types (incl. L-1, EB-5) since June 18, 2025<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"line-height:1.6\">Once the decision has been made to set up <strong>a business in the USA<\/strong>, the question often arises as to which visa is the most suitable: the L-1A transfer visa or the E-2 investment visa. Which of the two visas offers the best opportunity depends on the individual case. In the case of the <strong>L-1A visa<\/strong>, the applicant should be aware that the L-1A visa may not be extended and the <strong>E-2 visa<\/strong> must be applied for as an alternative. However, this can also lead to a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/en\/emigrate-usa\/green-card\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"6470\">green card<\/a> as long as the home business is maintained.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Gold Card &#8211; Planned new investor visa<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The US government is planning a new \u201c<strong>Gold Card\u201d program<\/strong> under President Trump, which is expected to replace the previous EB-5 investor visa. The prerequisite is an investment of at least <strong>USD 5 million<\/strong> or the creation of at least <strong>10 jobs<\/strong> to strengthen the US economy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is to be introduced <strong>from the end of 2025<\/strong>. The program is intended to speed up procedures and attract international investment. A residence permit will then be linked to proof of investment and an examination procedure.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">L-1A Transfer visas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The L-1 A visa serves as a transfer visa for managing directors and managers. The basic requirement is that the applicant <strong>works<\/strong> as a managing director or manager in a company <strong>outside the USA<\/strong>, which then opens a branch office in the USA and transfers the employee there. The employment relationship must have existed for at least one year. The \u201chome company\u201d must be active and remain active as long as the L-1A visa is valid. The \u201chome company\u201d should also have employees.    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The US company must be registered and set up. This includes a rented and furnished office, bank account, business plan, etc. At the same time, the US business must be able to demonstrate the <strong>need<\/strong> to transfer an employee from the top management of the parent company to the USA. This is usually due to the complexity of the business and the number of employees to be hired. No minimum investment is required.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There must be a qualifying relationship between the home company and the US company. Put simply, there must be an equal ownership relationship. <strong>How long the L-1A visa is issued<\/strong> depends on how long the US company has been in existence. If it has been in existence for less than a year, the L-1A visa is initially issued for one year and can then be extended twice for three years.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>extension of the L-1A visa<\/strong> is where the \u201chorse&#8217;s foot\u201d of this visa lies. It is required that the US company already employs so many people that the managing director or manager is only digerating. The bar is set high. This does not mean that it is impossible, but it is not easy to obtain. What is the alternative if the L-1A extension is not positive? As a rule, you can then switch to the E-2. All expenses incurred during the year and before can be claimed as an investment.      <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A widespread question is whether the change from L-1A does not also pave the way to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/en\/emigrate-usa\/green-card\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"6470\"><strong>green card<\/strong><\/a> is blocked. This is not the case. As long as the home company remains in existence and the managing director or manager works in this position in the USA, the basic elements for a Multinational Manager Green Card remain the same, regardless of whether the applicant has an E-2 or L-1A visa.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">E-2 Investor visas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The E-2 investor visa requires an investment of at least <strong>$80,000 to $100,000<\/strong> in the purchase or start-up of a U.S. business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here too, the US company must be set up and ready to go before the visa application is submitted. If an existing business is acquired, the purchase agreement must be in place and the purchase price must be held in an escrow account. The transfer of ownership may be subject to the visa being granted. With the E-2 visa, it does not matter whether the applicant has a \u201chome company\u201d or not. The visa is issued <strong>for 2 to 5 years<\/strong> and, as with the L-1A visa, includes spouses and children up to the age of 21.    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0\">So far, there is <strong>no direct path from the E-2 visa to the green card<\/strong>. Although the draft bill is already available, it is unknown whether and, if so, when a decision will be made on it. This means that if the investor wants a green card and has an active company in their home country, it is advisable to maintain this in order to preserve the path to the Multinational Manager Green Card. This is because this requires the applicant to be a managing director or manager in two active companies in two different countries.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0\">It is true that it is legal to have a firearm in your home in Florida. However, <strong>this is not possible without a firearms license<\/strong>. This must be applied for and the person who wants to buy a gun must also take a course and pass a background check. The weapons are registered. Not every American can buy a gun indiscriminately and there are certainly Americans who are not allowed to buy a gun. Criminals obtain guns illegally on the black market, just like anywhere else in the world.     <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0\">This article does not constitute legal advice, but is for general information purposes only.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uag-hide-desktop uag-hide-tab uagb-block-fad08d2a\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-info-box uagb-block-ec7a27cd uagb-infobox__content-wrap  uagb-infobox-icon-above-title uagb-infobox-image-valign-top\"><div class=\"uagb-ifb-content\"><div class=\"uagb-ifb-image-content\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Florido-Einreise.jpg\" alt=\"Florido Einreise in die USA\" width=\"400\" height=\"376\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/div><div class=\"uagb-ifb-title-wrap\"><p class=\"uagb-ifb-title\">Entering the USA | ESTA &amp; Customs<\/p><\/div><p class=\"uagb-ifb-desc\">Entering the USA requires good preparation. Find out here what you need to do to avoid problems when entering the country.   <\/p><div class=\"uagb-ifb-button-wrapper wp-block-button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/en\/travel-planning\/entry-in-the-usa\/\" class=\"uagb-infobox-cta-link wp-block-button__link\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" onclick=\"return true;\"><span class=\"uagb-inline-editing\">LEARN MORE NOW<\/span><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M504.3 273.6l-112.1 104c-6.992 6.484-17.18 8.218-25.94 4.406c-8.758-3.812-14.42-12.45-14.42-21.1L351.9 288H32C14.33 288 .0002 273.7 .0002 255.1S14.33 224 32 224h319.9l0-72c0-9.547 5.66-18.19 14.42-22c8.754-3.809 18.95-2.075 25.94 4.41l112.1 104C514.6 247.9 514.6 264.1 504.3 273.6z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-81de5f7f alignfull uagb-is-root-container\"><div class=\"uagb-container-inner-blocks-wrap\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq uagb-faq__outer-wrap uagb-block-8716293a uagb-faq-icon-row-reverse uagb-faq-layout-accordion uagb-faq-expand-first-false uagb-faq-inactive-other-true uagb-faq__wrap uagb-buttons-layout-wrap uagb-faq-equal-height     \" data-faqtoggle=\"true\" role=\"tablist\"><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.florida-scout.com\\\/en\\\/emigrate-usa\\\/visa\\\/\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What does an E2 visa mean in the USA?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The E2 visa is a <strong>work visa <\\\/strong>for treaty investors in the United States, i.e. people who come from a country with an investment agreement with the USA. It allows you to work and settle in the USA if you make a significant investment in your own company (e.g. restaurant, trading company). The E2 status is initially valid for a limited period, but can be extended.  \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What does an E2 visa cost?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The costs for an E 2 investor visa are <strong>between \\u20ac4,000 and \\u20ac10,000<\\\/strong>, depending on the law firm, business model and country of issue. In addition, there are US consulate fees, costs for the application, documents, translations and possible waiting times for the application. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can I switch to a green card with an E2 visa?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"<strong>There is no provision<\\\/strong> for a direct change from an E2 visa to a green card. However, many E2 visa applicants use alternative routes - for example by starting a business with a higher investment amount (e.g. EB-5 program) or marrying a US citizen. Important: E2 status is not dual-entry eligible.  \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How can I extend my E2 visa?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The USA E2 visa can be extended <strong>as often as required<\\\/strong> <strong>as long as the investment is active<\\\/strong> and the company remains operational. This requires a new application with proof of business activity, turnover, employees (e.g. US personnel) and compliance with the E2 requirements. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What are the requirements for E2 visa applicants?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"An E2 visa applicant must be a <strong>citizen of a country with an E2 agreement<\\\/strong> (e.g. Germany) and have an active investment in a US business - such as a store, restaurant or trading company. The amount of the investment is not specified, but should be significant and lead to employment in the country. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is the application process for the E2 investor visa?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The application is made <strong>via a consular process<\\\/strong> with detailed E2 applications, business plan, evidence of the company and planned investment. This is issued by the US embassy in your home country. Our guide will help you to plan all the steps in a structured manner - from the idea to establishment.  \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"In which countries is an E2 investment particularly worthwhile?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"States such as <strong>Florida, Texas and Arizona<\\\/strong> offer good opportunities for entrepreneurs - especially in the service, retail and hospitality sectors. Demand is high there, the cost of living is moderate and the E 2 status extension is often approved without any problems. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is an L-1 visa for the USA?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The duration of the L1 visa depends on the application process: <br>For first-time applications without a US branch: <strong>1 year<\\\/strong><br>For established companies: up to <strong>3 years<\\\/strong><br>Maximum duration: <strong>5 years (L1B)<\\\/strong> or <strong>7 years (L1A)<\\\/strong><br>Extensions are possible as long as the employment lasts.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can the spouse of an L1 employee move to the USA on an L1 visa?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"<strong>Yes<\\\/strong>, spouses receive a so-called <strong>L2 visa<\\\/strong> and are therefore allowed to enter the USA and work - often without an additional work permit. Children under the age of 21 are also allowed to travel, but without work permits.  \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How much does an investor visa for the USA cost?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The costs of an investor visa (e.g. E 2 visa) depend on the complexity of the case, the amount of the investment, the choice of visa type and the time and effort required to submit the application. Legal fees, translations, applications and fees can quickly add up to <strong>several thousand euros<\\\/strong>. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How can I obtain a green card by investing in the USA?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A green card through investment can be obtained <strong>via the EB-5 program<\\\/strong>. Prerequisite: an investment of $800,000 or more in an approved project or your own company with at least 10 full-time US jobs. The E2 visa alone does not entitle you to a green card, but can serve as a stepping stone.  \"}}]}<\/script><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-09849af8 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">What does an E2 visa mean in the USA?<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>The E2 visa is a <strong>work visa <\/strong>for treaty investors in the United States, i.e. people who come from a country with an investment agreement with the USA. It allows you to work and settle in the USA if you make a significant investment in your own company (e.g. restaurant, trading company). The E2 status is initially valid for a limited period, but can be extended.  <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-906b5767 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">What does an E2 visa cost?<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>The costs for an E 2 investor visa are <strong>between \u20ac4,000 and \u20ac10,000<\/strong>, depending on the law firm, business model and country of issue. In addition, there are US consulate fees, costs for the application, documents, translations and possible waiting times for the application. <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-d80b8427 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">Can I switch to a green card with an E2 visa?<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p><strong>There is no provision<\/strong> for a direct change from an E2 visa to a green card. However, many E2 visa applicants use alternative routes &#8211; for example by starting a business with a higher investment amount (e.g. EB-5 program) or marrying a US citizen. Important: E2 status is not dual-entry eligible.  <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-664348a8 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">How can I extend my E2 visa?<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>The USA E2 visa can be extended <strong>as often as required<\/strong> <strong>as long as the investment is active<\/strong> and the company remains operational. This requires a new application with proof of business activity, turnover, employees (e.g. US personnel) and compliance with the E2 requirements. <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-7f63672f \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">What are the requirements for E2 visa applicants?<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>An E2 visa applicant must be a <strong>citizen of a country with an E2 agreement<\/strong> (e.g. Germany) and have an active investment in a US business &#8211; such as a store, restaurant or trading company. The amount of the investment is not specified, but should be significant and lead to employment in the country. <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-f6782502 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">What is the application process for the E2 investor visa?<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>The application is made <strong>via a consular process<\/strong> with detailed E2 applications, business plan, evidence of the company and planned investment. This is issued by the US embassy in your home country. Our guide will help you to plan all the steps in a structured manner &#8211; from the idea to establishment.  <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-ac76a446 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">In which countries is an E2 investment particularly worthwhile?<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>States such as <strong>Florida, Texas and Arizona<\/strong> offer good opportunities for entrepreneurs &#8211; especially in the service, retail and hospitality sectors. Demand is high there, the cost of living is moderate and the E 2 status extension is often approved without any problems. <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-49c338bf \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">What is an L-1 visa for the USA?<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>The duration of the L1 visa depends on the application process: <br>For first-time applications without a US branch: <strong>1 year<\/strong><br>For established companies: up to <strong>3 years<\/strong><br>Maximum duration: <strong>5 years (L1B)<\/strong> or <strong>7 years (L1A)<\/strong><br>Extensions are possible as long as the employment lasts.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-9145d638 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">Can the spouse of an L1 employee move to the USA on an L1 visa?<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p><strong>Yes<\/strong>, spouses receive a so-called <strong>L2 visa<\/strong> and are therefore allowed to enter the USA and work &#8211; often without an additional work permit. Children under the age of 21 are also allowed to travel, but without work permits.  <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-f0afd86a \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">How much does an investor visa for the USA cost?<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>The costs of an investor visa (e.g. E 2 visa) depend on the complexity of the case, the amount of the investment, the choice of visa type and the time and effort required to submit the application. Legal fees, translations, applications and fees can quickly add up to <strong>several thousand euros<\/strong>. <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-c401e2bf \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<h4 class=\"uagb-question\">How can I obtain a green card by investing in the USA?<\/h4><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>A green card through investment can be obtained <strong>via the EB-5 program<\/strong>. Prerequisite: an investment of $800,000 or more in an approved project or your own company with at least 10 full-time US jobs. The E2 visa alone does not entitle you to a green card, but can serve as a stepping stone.  <\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Once the decision has been made to set up a business in the USA, the question often arises as to which visa is the most suitable: the L-1A transfer visa or the E-2 investment visa. Which of the two visas offers the best opportunity depends on the individual case. In the case of the L-1A visa, the applicant should be aware that the L-1A visa may not be extended and the E-2 visa must be applied for as an alternative. However, this can also lead to a green card as long as the home business is maintained.   <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":10082,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"disabled","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[307],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-21766","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-emigrate-usa"],"acf":[],"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-Visum.jpg",800,533,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-Visum-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-Visum-300x200.jpg",300,200,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-Visum-768x512.jpg",768,512,true],"large":["https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-Visum.jpg",800,533,false],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-Visum.jpg",800,533,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-Visum.jpg",800,533,false],"crp_thumb_small":["https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-Visum-340x200.jpg",340,200,true],"crp_thumb_large":["https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Auswandern-Visum.jpg",800,533,false]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"Sabine Weyergraf","author_link":"https:\/\/www.florida-scout.com\/en\/author\/sab_weyer\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"Once the decision has been made to set up a business in the USA, the question often arises as to which visa is the most suitable: the L-1A transfer visa or the E-2 investment visa. Which of the two visas offers the best opportunity depends on the individual case. 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