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The E-2 visa process generally takes 2-6 months depending on several factors, including whether the applicant is applying from outside the U.S. or requesting a change of status within the U.S. Embassy or consulate processing times vary by location, and applicants can often expect to wait between 1-3 months for their visa if applying from abroad. Those filing within the U.S. may face longer processing times, with USCIS taking 4-6 months unless premium processing is requested. Careful preparation, attention to detail in the application, and consulting with immigration professionals can help streamline the process and reduce delays.
The validity of an L-1 visa depends on several factors, including the visa type and whether the employee is working at a new or existing U.S. office. For L-1A executives and managers, the visa is initially granted for up to 3 years (or 1 year for a new office) and can be extended in 2-year increments, with a maximum total stay of 7 years. For L-1B specialized knowledge workers, the initial stay is also up to 3 years (or 1 year for a new office), with a maximum stay of 5 years. After reaching the maximum allowable stay, L-1 visa holders must leave the U.S., change their visa status, or apply for permanent residency if eligible.
After biometrics, the timeline for an interview depends on the type of application. Adjustment of status interviews typically occur within 4 to 10 months, though processing times vary by case type and USCIS workload.
To qualify for an EB-5 visa, an investor must make a minimum investment of $1,050,000 or $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) in a new or restructured business. The investment must lead to the creation of at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. The EB-5 program provides a direct path to a U.S. green card for the investor and their immediate family, but it requires a significant financial commitment, adherence to strict guidelines, and proper documentation to ensure a successful application. For those who can meet the requirements, the EB-5 visa offers an opportunity for permanent residency and, eventually, U.S. citizenship.