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U.S. immigration law is complex, and a single mistake can cost months. With more than 20 years of experience in U.S. business immigration and Italian roots, we understand both cultures. We guide you in your own language, from the initial consultation strategy to your final goal.

It depends on your plans. If you’re personally investing in a U.S. business, the E-2 visa may fit. If you already own a company in Italy and want to open a U.S. office, consider the L-1. If you have an outstanding professional profile or are a start-up founder, the O-1 may be your path. We’ll review your situation together to find the best route.

The E-2 is an investor visa for citizens of countries that have a commerce treaty with the United States, and Italy is one of them. It allows you to live in the U.S. and direct the business you’ve invested in, and it can be renewed as long as the business remains active.

There is no fixed minimum. The investment must be “substantial” relative to the type of business. It also can’t be marginal: the business must do more than support the investor and their family. We help you assess whether your plan is solid before you invest.

Yes. The L-1 visa allows companies to transfer executives, managers and employees with specialized knowledge who have worked for the group abroad for at least one year in the past three. There’s also a specific path for opening a new office in the United States.

There’s no “startup visa” as such, but Italian founders have several options. These include the E-2 if you’re investing in your own company, the O-1 if you have a track record of excellence, and the L-1 if you already have a company in Italy. 

Yes, and it’s one of the most effective paths for Italian founders. Your own U.S. company can sponsor your O-1, as long as there’s a real employer-employee relationship, such as a board of directors that oversees your work. Evidence such as venture funding, acceptance into a recognized accelerator, patents, media coverage, or a key role in a successful company can help show extraordinary ability. Unlike the E-2, the O-1 doesn’t require a personal investment, which makes it ideal for founders whose companies are backed by outside capital.

Yes. The O-1 visa is designed for people with extraordinary ability in their field, from science and business to the arts, fashion, and gastronomy. Awards, publications, recognition, and press coverage can make the difference. Many Italian professionals qualify without realizing it.

No. The O-1 is not subject to an annual cap or lottery, and you can file at any time of year. That often makes it an excellent alternative for Italian talent.

The H-1B is for skilled professionals hired by a U.S. employer for a position that requires a university degree. It’s subject to an annual cap and a selection process, and the rules have changed recently. We’ll assess whether it’s the right fit or whether faster alternatives exist.

Yes. On an F-1 visa, you can study in the U.S. and, after graduation, work through OPT, with a STEM extension. Planning the transition from study to work early is essential.

On an ESTA or a B-1 visa, you can attend meetings, negotiate, attend trade fairs, and sign contracts, but you can’t work. Crossing that line can jeopardize future visas, so it’s best to get clarity before you travel.

In most cases, yes. Your spouse and minor children can obtain derivative visas. With some visas, such as the E-2 and L-1, your spouse can also work in the U.S.

In many cases, yes. For example, some managers on L-1 visas and some professionals on O-1 visas can pursue permanent residence. It’s a strategy best planned from the start.

Timelines vary by visa type, consulate, and U.S. government workload. Some cases can be expedited. Careful planning helps avoid delays and surprises.

The first consultation takes place by video conference, in Italian or English (whatever is most comfortable for you). We review your project, your goals, and the options available, then propose a clear strategy with defined timelines and costs. Contact us to schedule an appointment.