Getting an investor visa sounds simple when you already have a business to join. Maybe a friend or relative offers you a share in their company. Or maybe you find an opportunity online that seems legitimate and already running. It feels safer than starting something from scratch.
But the truth is, these arrangements often come with unexpected risks. Just because a business exists does not mean it is a good fit for an investor visa. Many people face delays, rejections or even lose their chance entirely, simply because they did not know the rules behind joining an existing company.
When a good business is not enough
The government does not just look at the company. It looks at your role, your money and your control over the business. If you are buying into someone else’s work, you need to show that:
- Your funds are at risk: Passive ownership does not meet visa requirements.
- You play an active role: If you are not part of daily decisions or operations, it may not count.
- Your share is not symbolic: Owning a small percentage, especially if others make all the calls, could hurt your application.
- The business is not inflated: Overvalued shares or unclear agreements raise red flags.
You might also be asked to explain how you got the money, especially if it came through others. Transfers from family or pooled funds are tricky without strong documentation.
Even if the business is successful, how its structure supports your individual visa matters. Many applications are denied not because the idea is bad, but because the paperwork does not match the rules.
If you are thinking about investing in an existing U.S. business, take your time. Ask hard questions. Look at the structure, not just the profit. When you are ready to move forward, having legal support can help you to avoid common mistakes and to keep your plans on track.