Many foreign entrepreneurs want to own a US-based business and enjoy the countless benefits of the world’s largest economy. The E2 Treaty Investor visa is a good option for eligible foreign nationals who want to own a US business by forming a business from scratch or buying an existing company.
In this article, you will discover how to find E2 businesses for sale in Florida.
What is the E2 Visa? – Explaining the Concept
As provided by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the E2 nonimmigrant visa allows a national of a treaty country to be admitted to the United States when investing a substantial amount of capital in a US business enterprise.
A “treaty country” is a country:
- “With which the United States maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation
- With which the United States maintains a qualifying international agreement, or
- Which has been deemed a qualifying country by legislation”
In specific circumstances, qualified employees of an individual under E2 status or a qualifying organization may also have eligibility for the same classification. Applicants must have invested, or be actively in the process of investing, a “substantial amount of capital” in a bona fide US business enterprise.
As the term “substantial” does not refer to a preset amount, the minimum investment amount may vary according to the type of business, its size, operations, number of employees, and the proposed business plan.
E2 applicants must be seeking to enter the country exclusively to develop and direct the proposed business, which is established by showing at least 50% ownership of the enterprise or operational control through a managerial position or other corporate devices.
The amount of capital investment must be active, placed at risk in the commercial activities of the E2 business enterprise to generate profit. Hence, no forms of passive investment are eligible for E2 status.
E2 Business for Sale in Florida – A Realistic Overview
Florida offers multiple opportunities for E2 applicants who want to acquire a US business. However, aspiring entrepreneurs must pay attention to the state’s peculiarities and legal compliance.
Generally, most business owners in Florida tend to overvalue their companies during transactions. It is not unusual to find medium-sized businesses being sold for $500,000, usually 2 to 4 times earnings depending on the company’s industry and profitability.
Another factor that prospective business buyers must pay attention to is how actively involved the owner is in a Florida business.
Owners involved in the daily activities of a business tend to have a more detailed viewpoint of the company’s operations, employee performance, and other similar aspects.
Business owners who put their capital but not their labor into a company may be aware of the company’s “cold numbers” and statistics but lack the knowledge about daily activities and operations.
It is fundamental to assess each business offer from a fiscal perspective, especially for non-US citizens acquiring an existing business. Structuring a business sale in Florida as a foreign national requires a professional approach, which is something only an experienced business immigration attorney can provide.
Do You Want to Find E2 Businesses for Sale in Florida? – Immediately Contact Attorney Romy B. Jurado
With years of experience helping clients acquire businesses in the United States, Attorney Romy B. Jurado is willing to make you succeed. Immediately call us at (305) 921-0976 or email [email protected] to schedule a consultation.
