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One of the final and mandatory steps to obtaining your permanent residency is the Green Card medical exam . This examination is designed to ensure that you do not have any underlying medical conditions that would make your admission to the United States inadmissible for public health reasons. Here is what you need to know to approach this step with confidence and efficiency. 1. Choosing an Authorized Doctor (Panel Physician) for your Green Card Medical Exam You cannot consult

When you file for permanent residency from within the United States, you enter a transitional phase known as Adjustment of Status . This is a delicate period: you are no longer a simple visitor or a "non-immigrant," but you are not yet a permanent resident. Two questions systematically arise during this time: Can I work? And can I travel internationally? Here are the essential rules to ensure you do not put your application at risk. 1. Working During Adjustment of Status: The

The financial requirement is often the most stressful part of applying for a Green Card through marriage . To ensure that the immigrating spouse does not become a "public charge," the sponsor must demonstrate the financial ability to support the couple. Here are the essential criteria to prepare a solid financial file and avoid unnecessary processing delays. 1. Understanding the Financial Commitment for a Green Card Through Marriage Financial sponsorship is not just a formali

Applying for a Green Card through marriage  is a life-changing process, but it is also one of the most scrutinized paths to residency. A simple administrative mistake doesn't just mean a minor delay; it can lead to your entire application being returned or denied. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid to ensure your immigration journey is successful. 1. Insufficient Evidence of a "Bona Fide" Marriage To grant a Green Card through marriage , immigration officers must be c

Relocating to the United States under an E-2 Investor Visa  is one of the most ambitious projects a French entrepreneu r can undertake. Beyond the business strategy, the success of the project relies heavily on family integration. How does work authorization work for spouses? What is the reality of schooling for children? As a U.S. immigration attorney—and a former E-2 visa expatriate myself—I would like to share the key points to help you plan your family’s relocation. Spous

Obtaining an E-2  visa as a consultant can seem complex: few tangible assets, a great deal of expertise, and an activity often perceived as too “solo.” Yet a well-structured, credible, and professionally presented business plan can turn this challenge into a real opportunity. Here is how a consultant can build a business plan that will convince U.S. authorities. 1. Building a Business Plan That Counters the Perception of a “Marginal” Activity 1.1 Clarify your positioning to

Acquisition or Creation: Two Different Approaches Specificities of Acquiring an Existing Business Purchasing an operational business presents unique characteristics for your E-2 visa application. You inherit a verifiable financial history, an established customer base, and already-functioning operational processes. U.S. authorities can rely on documented past revenues to assess the economic viability of your investment. An existing business typically generates revenue quickly

Are you an E-2 visa holder planning to travel abroad? While this visa offers great flexibility, re-entering the United States carries overlooked risks that can jeopardize your status. Here's what every E-2 investor needs to know before crossing the U.S. border. Understanding E-2 Visa Re-entry Rules The E-2 visa allows investors and employees of foreign companies to work in the United States. Contrary to popular belief, holding a valid E-2 visa does not automatically guarant

Opening a juice bar in the United States attracts many foreign investors. The concept is appealing — health, nature, and wellness — and the startup costs remain relatively low compared to other types of food businesses. However, what looks simple on paper can become far more complex when it comes to meeting the requirements of the E-2 investor visa. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) evaluates each E-2 case based on strict criteria: The business must not be

One of the biggest misconceptions about the E-2 visa is that a commercial lease is mandatory. Many entrepreneurs abandon their plans believing they must commit to expensive office space before approval. Let's clarify what you really need. The Short Answer: No, It's Not Required There is no law stating that E-2 visa applicants must have a commercial lease. Immigration authorities require evidence of a real, operational business with genuine U.S. ties. A commercial lease is on

The digital economy has transformed how we do business, and many foreign entrepreneurs wonder: can I get an E-2 visa for an e-commerce or online business? The short answer is yes—but there are important requirements you must meet. Understanding the E-2 Visa The E-2 treaty investor visa allows nationals from treaty countries to enter the United States to develop and direct a business in which they have invested substantial capital. While traditionally associated with brick-and

Opening a juice bar in the United States attracts many foreign investors. The concept is appealing — health, nature, and wellness — and the startup costs remain relatively low compared to other types of food businesses. However, what looks simple on paper can become far more complex when it comes to meeting the requirements of the E-2 investor visa . The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) evaluates each E-2 case based on strict criteria: The business must not b

Opening a bank account in the United States can seem complicated for non-residents, especially if you don’t have a U.S. visa. However, it is entirely possible to open a personal or business bank account without holding a visa, as long as you can provide the right documentation and meet your bank’s identification requirements. 1. Opening a Personal Bank Account as a Non-Resident Most U.S. banks welcome foreign clients, although the process can vary from one institution to anot

When a foreign national applies for a green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, one of the most scrutinized aspects by U.S. immigration authorities (USCIS) is the genuineness of the marriage — what is known as a “bona fide marriage. ”The goal is simple: to distinguish genuine unions from marriages entered into for immigration benefits.Below are the key elements to demonstrate that your relationship is real and meets U.S. immigration law requi

The E-2 visa  is one of the most popular visas for foreign entrepreneurs looking to live and work in the United States. It allows investors to own and manage a U.S. business, but many people wonder: Can you qualify for an E-2 visa as a passive investor, without actively managing the company? The short answer is no. The E-2 visa is designed for active investors — those who are committed to directly operating and growing their U.S. business. Understanding the Purpose of the E-2

One of the first and most important decisions when starting a business in the United States under an E-2 investor visa  is choosing the right business structure: Limited Liability Company (LLC)  or S Corporation (S Corp) . Both are popular options among foreign investors, but their tax, legal, and administrative implications differ significantly. Here’s a clear guide to help you determine which structure best fits your E-2 business project. Understanding the E-2 Visa The E-2

For many international students studying in the United States, the F-1 visa is the gateway to world-class education — and often, to their first professional opportunity in America. One of the most valuable benefits of F-1 status is the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows students to gain real-world experience in their field of study. But how exactly does OPT work after you complete your studies? Let’s break it down. What Is OPT (Optional Practical Training

The United States offers several visa options for foreign entrepreneurs wishing to expand their businesses in the American market. Among them, the E-1 (Trader) and E-2 (Investor) visas are often confused. However, they serve very different purposes: one promotes international trade, the other direct investment in the American economy. The E-1 visa: for international trade The E-1 visa, or Treaty Trader , is for citizens of countries that have signed a trade treaty with the

Navigating American visas can sometimes feel overwhelming due to strict regulations and numerous requirements. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll uncover fascinating insights that can make your journey more enjoyable and less stressful. Whether it's your dream to study, work, or vacation in the United States, these interesting facts will not only inform you but also help you feel more connected to this rich culture. Here are ten surprising facts about American visas that you

Obtaining a work permit in the United States is a crucial step for many foreigners wishing to live and work in this country. Whether you're an international student, a skilled professional, or a family member of a U.S. citizen, several options are available to you. Here are the different steps and options available to facilitate your path to the American dream. The different types of work permits It's important to know the types of work permits available in the United States,