Overview
Whether you’re an entrepreneur launching a U.S. startup or an employer recruiting specialized talent, navigating business immigration visas can be complex. At Wakrim Law Firm, we guide Boston individuals and companies through every step—ensuring compliant filings, strategic planning, and successful outcomes.
Key Visa Categories
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
- Who it’s for: Nationals of treaty countries investing a substantial amount in a U.S. enterprise.
- Benefits: Renewable indefinitely, spouse may work, streamlined processing in Boston.
- Requirements: Minimum investment (often ≥ $100,000), active business plan, at-risk capital.
L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa
- Who it’s for: Executives, managers, or specialized-knowledge employees transferring from a related foreign entity.
- Benefits: Valid for up to seven years (L-1A) or five years (L-1B). Employer-driven; no annual cap.
- Requirements: One year of qualifying foreign service in the past three years; U.S. office must be operational or have a viable plan.
H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa
- Who it’s for: Professionals in roles requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher (IT, engineering, finance, etc.).
- Benefits: Dual intent permitted; spouse may obtain H-4 status.
- Limitations: Annual cap (65,000 + 20,000 for U.S. master’s holders); lottery system.
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa
- Who it’s for: Investors committing at least $900,000 (TEA) or $1.8 million outside TEA, creating 10 full-time jobs.
- Benefits: Path to conditional permanent residency.
- Requirements: Job creation, regional center or direct investment, source-of-funds documentation.
Our Business Immigration Process
- Initial Assessment (1–2 weeks)
Evaluate goals, budget, and eligibility for E-2, L-1, H-1B, or EB-5. - Strategy & Documentation (2–4 weeks)
Draft business plans, organizational charts, and support letters; prepare Forms I-129, DS-160, I-526, or I-485 as applicable. - Filing & Government Liaison (by visa category)
We submit petitions to USCIS or the U.S. Consulate in Canada (for E-2) and monitor status. - Interview Preparation
Coach principals and employees on consular or USCIS office interview expectations; compile evidence packages. - Approval & Maintenance
Upon approval, we advise on extensions, status adjustments, compliance audits, and transitions (e.g., E-2 → EB-5).
Timeline & Typical Fees
| Visa Type | Timeline | Fee Structure |
|---|---|---|
| E-2 Visa | 3–6 months | Flat fee + filing costs |
| L-1 Visa | 4–8 months | Hourly or flat + fees |
| H-1B Visa | 6–9 months* | Hourly + government fees |
| EB-5 Visa | 12–24 months | Flat + due diligence fee |
*H-1B timelines vary due to lottery and premium processing options.
Note: All fees and timelines depend on case complexity. A detailed engagement letter precedes any work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I switch from E-2 to EB-5?
Yes—many E-2 investors later file EB-5 petitions to obtain permanent residency.
Q: What if my L-1 petition is denied?
We can file an M-1 motion to reopen or reconsider, or explore alternative visa options.
Q: Are there Boston-specific quotas?
No—caps and lotteries are national. However, local USCIS field office workloads affect interview scheduling.
Q: How soon can an H-1B employee start work?
After USCIS approval and visa stamping—often within 30 days of the validity start date.
Q: Can entrepreneurs apply for visas on their own?
While possible, business immigration involves nuanced regulations; legal counsel minimizes risk.
Q: Do family members qualify?
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may obtain dependent visas (E-2 – E-2D; L-1 – L-2; H-1B – H-4).
Q: What is premium processing?
An optional USCIS service for L-1 and H-1B that guarantees a decision within 15 calendar days.
Q: How do I maintain visa status?
Compliance with investment levels, corporate governance, employment terms, and timely renewals is essential.