Other Countries
U.S. Immigration for Professionals and Entrepreneurs from Other Countries
Introduction
Our clients are global and are not limited to the countries listed above. We also assist professionals and entrepreneurs from countries that face fewer immigration hurdles and shorter wait times, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Singapore. These countries typically have more favorable visa processing times due to lower demand for employment-based immigration to the U.S. If you are a professional or business owner from one of these countries, you have a variety of visa options to work and live in the United States.
Below is an overview of the best visa categories available based on your qualifications and career goals.
Considering a move to the U.S.? Contact us today to find the best visa option for you.
Top U.S. Visa Options for Professionals
EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability Green Card) – No Employer Required
- Ideal for top-tier professionals in engineering, technology, business, healthcare, and the arts
- No employer sponsorship required
- Fast-tracked green card process with high priority
The EB-1A visa is designed for professionals with significant achievements in their field, such as internationally recognized awards, leadership positions, media coverage, or substantial contributions to their industry.
EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) – A Flexible Path to a Green Card
The EB1A visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities in their respective fields. Unlike the NIW, which requires proving national interest, the EB1A focuses on demonstrating an internationally recognized track record of excellence.
Eligibility Criteria:
- No employer sponsorship needed
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Must demonstrate work benefits U.S. national interests
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Now eligible for premium processing for faster approval
- Leading roles in organizations or companies
The EB-2 NIW is ideal for engineers, researchers, IT professionals, healthcare experts, and business leaders who can show their work has a significant impact on the U.S.
O-1 Visa (For Professionals with Extraordinary Skills)
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Suitable for high-achieving professionals in science, education, business, and the arts
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A temporary work visa with a pathway to the EB-1A green card
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Faster processing compared to EB-2 NIW
The O-1 visa is a strong option for accomplished professionals who may not yet meet the EB-1A green card threshold but want to work in the U.S. while building their credentials.
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa – Fast & Flexible Business Visa
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Requires an investment of at least $100,000 in a U.S. business
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Quick processing and renewable indefinitely
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No employer sponsorship required
Many of the listed countries, including the U.K., Canada, Germany, and Japan, have E-2 treaty agreements with the U.S., allowing their citizens to start or invest in U.S. businesses with a lower investment threshold than the EB-5 visa.
FAQs for Professionals & Entrepreneurs Seeking U.S. Immigration
The EB-1A visa is the fastest route to a green card for professionals with extraordinary ability. It does not require employer sponsorship and has priority processing, making it quicker than EB-2 NIW. The O-1 visa is another fast option for professionals seeking temporary work authorization.
The EB-1A visa requires proof of extraordinary ability, such as awards, publications, or leadership roles, but has faster processing. The EB-2 NIW is for professionals whose work benefits the U.S. national interest and does not require employer sponsorship but often has longer processing times.
Professionals from countries like the U.K., Canada, and Australia often face fewer backlogs and may qualify for EB-1A or EB-2 NIW faster.
Yes! Many professionals start with an O-1 or E-2 Visa and later apply for EB-1A or EB-2 NIW to obtain a green card.
If you have more questions or are ready to start your journey,
Contact Zhang-Louie PLLC today for expert guidance.
Key Takeaways: The Best U.S. Visa Strategy for Professionals & Entrepreneurs
For highly skilled professionals: The EB-1A or O-1 visa is the fastest route. For professionals in STEM, healthcare, or business: The EB-2 NIW offers a clear green card pathway. For entrepreneurs and investors: The E-2 can provide excellent investment opportunities.
If you are a professional or entrepreneur looking to move to the U.S., we can provide tailored guidance to help you navigate the immigration process successfully.
