For those seeking to establish or expand business operations or make significant investments in the United States, we provide counsel on a range of non-immigrant and immigrant visa categories, including:

Reserved for individuals demonstrating extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics; outstanding professors and researchers with international recognition; and certain multinational executives and managers. This category typically does not require a PERM labor certification.

For professionals holding advanced degrees (Master’s or higher, or a Bachelor’s plus five years of progressive experience) or individuals with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business. While often requiring a PERM labor certification, it includes a National Interest Waiver (NIW) option for those whose work is deemed to be in the U.S. national interest.

Encompasses skilled workers (requiring at least two years of job experience or training), professionals (requiring a U.S. bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent), and “other workers” (for individuals performing unskilled labor). This category generally requires a PERM labor certification.

For nationals of countries with which the U.S. maintains treaties of commerce and navigation, enabling substantial trade between the U.S. and the treaty country.

For nationals of treaty countries who make a substantial investment in a bona fide U.S. enterprise and seek to develop and direct that enterprise. This visa does not directly lead to permanent residency.

For executives, managers, or employees with specialized knowledge transferring from a foreign company to a qualifying U.S. parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch.

A non-immigrant visa available to Canadian and Mexican citizens who qualify to work in specific professional occupations in the United States under the terms of the CUSMA (Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement).

A pathway to U.S. permanent residency (Green Card) for foreign investors who make a qualifying investment (typically US$1,050,000, or US$800,000 in Targeted Employment Areas) in a new commercial enterprise that creates or preserves at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.

Canada offers various federal and provincial programs designed to attract entrepreneurs and investors. We advise on suitable pathways, which may include:

For innovative entrepreneurs with the potential to build businesses in Canada that can create jobs for Canadians and compete globally. Applicants must secure support from a designated Canadian organization (e.g., venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator).

Similar to the U.S. L-1 visa, this program allows multinational companies to transfer qualified executives, senior managers, or specialized knowledge workers to their Canadian operations without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Seamless legal support for complex cross-border mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and other corporate transactions, ensuring adherence to both U.S. and international legal frameworks.

Most Canadian provinces and territories have their own business immigration streams under their PNPs, which allow provinces to nominate individuals who wish to invest in or establish a business in that specific province. Requirements vary by province regarding investment amounts, net worth, and job creation.

A program specifically for Quebec, requiring a significant investment and demonstrating a minimum net worth.

Our firm is committed to assessing your unique circumstances and guiding you through the complex immigration processes for your business and investment endeavors in the U.S. and Canada.

Note: We do not have expertise in all visa types. However, we have a strong network of US and Canadian lawyers. If we can’t handle your immigration matter, you can count on us to understand your needs and refer you to the best law firm, at no extra cost to you for the initial intake or referral.