“Even if you’ve been turned down for a tourist visa, the L-1 visa is a whole new chapter.”

Can Luggage Full of Tourist Visa Rejections Still Get You an L-1?

So, let’s talk about our friend, Diego. He’s got a suitcase packed with more than just clothes—it’s full of those pesky tourist visa rejections. But here’s the twist: Diego isn’t just planning another vacation; he’s eyeing an L-1 work visa, which is a whole different ball game.

Now, you might wonder, “Can someone with a history of tourist visa rejections still land an L-1 visa?” Well, the good news is yes! Even if you’ve been turned down for a tourist visa, the L-1 visa is a whole new chapter. The L-1 has two intentions: one for temporarily working in the U.S. and the other for potentially immigrating. And guess what? The embassy isn’t going to penalize you for thinking about putting down roots.

If Diego meets all the requirements—like showing his strong ties to his homeland, proving he’s not just here to wander around the Grand Canyon, and of course, having a solid job offer from his employer—his chances of getting that shiny L-1 visa are pretty solid. Way better than another stab at a tourist visa.

But, what about the business itself? Are there certain businesses that are more likely to get you that golden L-1 ticket? While there’s no magical list, let’s just say opening a hot dog stand probably won’t cut it. You need something that requires skilled workers, preferably with some degrees to flaunt.

Diego has two paths to consider: start a business from scratch or buy a ready-made one. If he starts fresh, he gets a visa for one year—enough time to grow his baby business into something big enough to extend the visa. On the other hand, if Diego buys an existing business, he gets three years right off the bat, along with employees, profit, and all the bells and whistles. And for those eyeing that green card, buying an existing business has a clear edge—fewer risks and quicker progress.

So, is there a catch? Of course. The business has to be profitable enough to cover at least one employee’s salary for a year. If Diego’s startup doesn’t hit that mark, well, the green card will remain out of reach. And both the U.S. and foreign companies must have been actively operating for at least a year—no dormant businesses allowed.

Checklist of Main Ideas:

• Tourist visa rejections don’t disqualify you from an L-1 visa.

• The L-1 visa allows for work and potential immigration.

• Businesses needing skilled workers are more likely to qualify.

• Start a new business: 1-year visa, develop to extend.

• Buy an existing business: 3-year visa, easier green card path.

• Business must be profitable enough to cover employee salary for a year.

• Both U.S. and foreign companies must be active for at least a year.

For more questions about buying a business call us +1 (561) 867-7697