EB-5 Visa vs L-1 Visa: Which One Is Right for You?
Scaling your business across borders? Ready to turn capital into a green card? Whether you’re a CEO or investor, the EB-5 and L-1 visas are your launchpads to the U.S., but which one will get you there faster?
Let’s dive in,
What Is the EB-5 Visa?
The EB-5 visa enables foreign investors to obtain U.S. residency by investing in the American economy. Green Card by investing in the American economy.
Here’s how it works:
- Investment requirement: Minimum of $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or $1,050,000 elsewhere.
- Job creation: Your investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time U.S. jobs.
- Path to Green Card: You and your immediate family (spouse and children under 21) can get permanent residency.
In short, the EB-5 visa is perfect if you want a direct path to a Green Card through investment.
What Is the L-1 Visa?
The L-1 visa is a work visa. With this visa, businesses can move qualified staff from offices abroad to their U.S. branches
There are two types:
- L-1A: For executives and managers.
- L-1B: For employees with specialized knowledge.
Key points:
- No investment needed.
- Valid for 1–7 years.
- The visa allows dual intent, so you can live temporarily while planning for permanent residency
If you work for or own a multinational company, the L-1 visa can be your entry into the U.S.
L1 Visa vs EB5: Key Difference
Let’s break it down:
| Feature | EB-5 Visa | L-1 Visa |
| Investment | Investment | Employement |
| Green card | Direct | Temporary non-immigrant visa; can lead to a Green Card |
| Investment | $800,000–$1,050,000 | Not required |
| Family Benefits | Green Cards for spouse and kids | Dependents get an L-2 visa |
| Job Role | Not required | Must be an executive, manager, or specialist |
| Timeline | 2-3 Year( Varies) | Faster, usually weeks to months |
| Business Setup | Investment in a new or existing business | Must be tied to a multinational company |
So, which one should you choose?
It depends on your profile:
- If you have capital and want permanent residency, EB-5 is ideal.
- If you’re an employee or entrepreneur already linked to a company abroad, L-1 could be faster and more cost-effective.
Eligibility for L1 Visa
To qualify for an L-1 visa:
- You must have worked for the foreign company for at least 1 year in the past 3 years.
- To qualify, both businesses must be connected as a parent, branch, affiliate, or subsidiary.
- Your role must be managerial, executive, or require specialized knowledge.
It’s also possible to start a new office in the U.S. under L-1A. This is common among entrepreneurs expanding their business.
Why Choose a Trusted Migration Company?
Both visa types are complex. Every step must be backed by detailed paperwork and submitted on schedule. Choosing the best corporate investment migration company can save you time, money, and stress.
A professional team helps you:
- Structure your investment or business correctly.
- Navigate USCIS requirements.
- Prepare all supporting documents.
- Ensure compliance every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
L1 visa vs EB5, each has unique advantages.
- If your goal is a Green Card through investment, the EB-5 program is your best option.
- Choose L-1 if you’re transferring within a company or setting up a U.S. branch.
Need help deciding? Work with a reliable immigration firm that understands both business and immigration. Your future in the U.S. starts with the right guidance.
