At Berardi Immigration Law, we are proud to support entrepreneurs and executives as they expand their business ventures into the United States. In a recent matter, we assisted a Canadian entrepreneur in securing an E-2 visa to launch a U.S.-based advisory firm focused on a rapidly growing and highly regulated industry.
A Niche Focus in a Complex Industry
Our client is an experienced business executive with a strong background in advisory services, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic growth. They identified a unique opportunity to establish a U.S. advisory firm specializing in the interactive gaming, or iGaming, sector.
The business provides specialized services to mid-sized and large companies navigating the North American market, including regulatory compliance, operational strategy, and expansion planning. Given the complexity and regulatory oversight within this industry, demand for expert advisory services continues to grow.
Establishing a U.S. Presence
To support this vision, the client formed a U.S. entity and established a physical office in South Florida, a strategic location offering proximity to key business hubs, clients, and international transportation routes.
The company was designed to provide high-level consulting services, leveraging the founder’s experience and industry knowledge to assist clients entering or expanding within the U.S. market.
From the outset, the company took meaningful steps to establish itself as an active U.S. business, including securing office space, investing in operational infrastructure, and beginning initial client engagement efforts.
Substantial Investment in Business Launch
The client made a substantial investment to launch and support U.S. operations. This investment was carefully structured to demonstrate both financial commitment and operational readiness, key requirements under the E-2 visa program.
Key expenditures included:
- Capital Contribution: Transfer of funds to a U.S. business account to support ongoing operations such as payroll, office costs, and business development
- Business Formation and Legal Services: Corporate registration, legal structuring, and compliance-related costs
- Professional Advisory Services: Investment in business planning, tax structuring, and strategic advisory services to ensure a strong and compliant business foundation
- Office Space: Securing and maintaining a physical U.S. office to serve as the base of operations
- Technology and Equipment: Purchase of office equipment, computers, and presentation tools to support day-to-day operations
- Business Software: Implementation of communication, document management, and operational systems
- U.S. Staffing: Hiring of a U.S.-based employee, demonstrating an early commitment to domestic job creation
These expenditures reflect a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to launching a legitimate, operating U.S. business.
Lawful and Traceable Source of Funds
A key strength of this case was the clear and well-documented source of investment funds. The capital was derived from the client’s personal assets, accumulated through a long and successful career in executive leadership and entrepreneurship.
We worked closely with the client to demonstrate:
- Lawful accumulation of funds through professional earnings and business success
- Transfer of funds from personal accounts to the U.S. business
- Use of those funds to support bona fide business operations
This documentation helped establish that the investment was legitimate, at risk, and fully committed to the enterprise.
A Bona Fide, Non-Marginal Enterprise
The U.S. company was structured as a bona fide, non-marginal enterprise with strong growth potential. At the time of filing, the company had already taken significant operational steps, including securing a physical office and hiring U.S. personnel.
The business also demonstrated early commercial traction, including:
- Initial client interest and engagements, supported by letters of intent
- Projected revenue growth, reflecting scalability and market demand
- Planned job creation, with projections to expand the U.S. workforce as the company grows
Within its first few years, the company anticipates generating substantial revenue and contributing meaningfully to the U.S. economy.
From Concept to Launch
This case highlights how an experienced entrepreneur can successfully establish a U.S. advisory business in a specialized and regulated industry. By combining industry expertise, a clear business model, and a well-structured investment, the client was able to meet all E-2 visa requirements and position the company for success.
With E-2 visa approval, the client is now able to actively lead U.S. operations, engage with clients, and continue building the business.
Learn How to Achieve an E-2 Visa for Your Service-Based Business
This E-2 visa success story demonstrates that service-based businesses, including advisory and consulting firms, can qualify for the E-2 visa with the right structure, investment, and documentation.
At Berardi Immigration Law, we work closely with entrepreneurs to develop strong, strategic E-2 petitions that reflect both business goals and immigration requirements.
If you are considering launching or expanding a business in the United States through the E-2 visa program, our team is here to help guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your U.S. expansion.
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