Buying a Business in Florida as a Foreign Investor
A practical guide to U.S. business ownership and visa-based investment
Build Your Future in the U.S. Through Business Ownership
Florida has long been a destination for international entrepreneurs and investors — and for good reason. Buying a business in Florida can open the door to both financial opportunity and U.S. residency, particularly through investor visa programs such as the E-2, L-1, or EB-5.
At Amerivest, we’ve helped numerous foreign buyers navigate the process of acquiring a qualifying business — from evaluating opportunities to coordinating with experienced immigration attorneys.
Note: We are not immigration attorneys and do not provide legal visa advice. However, we work closely with legal professionals and understand the practical business requirements tied to investor visa programs.
Who is this for?
- Foreign nationals looking to invest or operate a business in the U.S.
- E-2 or L-1 visa applicants needing a qualifying acquisition
- International families planning a U.S. relocation via entrepreneurship
- Existing foreign investors expanding operations into Florida
Common U.S. Visa Options for Business Investors
For full visa eligibility and requirements, consult an experienced immigration attorney. See USCIS.gov for official details.
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
Most common and straightforward for qualifying nationals making a substantial investment.
Purpose
Temporary visa for citizens of eligible countries investing in a U.S. business
Typical Requirements
- Substantial investment (no fixed minimum, often $100K+)
- Active ownership and operational control
- Real business (not marginal or passive)
L-1A Intracompany Transfer Visa
Requires operational businesses in both countries and qualifying executive/managerial role.
Purpose
Transfer of executive/manager from a foreign company to U.S. affiliate
Typical Requirements
- Active foreign business
- Must be executive/manager role
- Proof of control/ownership
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa
Offers permanent residency but involves high investment, strict job creation, and longer timelines.
Purpose
Green card via investment
Typical Requirements
- $800k–$1.05M+ investment (direct or through regional center)
- 10+ full-time U.S. jobs created
What Kind of Business Qualifies?
Not all businesses are eligible or advisable for visa purposes. You’ll need an active, for-profit enterprise that can demonstrate meaningful economic impact and supports your role in daily operations.
Visa-friendly businesses often:
- Have steady revenue and profitability
- Support multiple employees
- Require active management
- Have room for growth
Avoid:
- Passive investments (e.g., rental property)
- Businesses that don’t support your managerial role
- Shell companies or newly formed businesses with no operations
How Amerivest Helps Foreign Buyers
We work with buyers from Latin America, Europe, and beyond who are looking to acquire a Florida-based business as part of their U.S. immigration or investment strategy. Here’s how we support you:
Deal Sourcing & Evaluation
Introduce you to visa-eligible, profitable businesses.
Explain how each opportunity meets common visa requirements.
Connect you with immigration attorneys and CPA partners.
Due Diligence Support
- Facilitate conversations with the seller and request key financial and operational information.
- Offer our perspective on whether the numbers and structure align with industry norms.
- Coordinate communication with your CPA, attorney, and immigration counsel to keep the process organized.
Process Coordination
Assist with Letters of Intent (LOIs) and deal terms.
Help structure the purchase to align with visa criteria.
Work with all parties to keep the deal and paperwork moving.
Why Florida?
- One of the most active states for business sales and visa-backed acquisitions
- Strong tourism, service, and construction sectors
- No state income tax
- Large, multicultural communities
- Major international airports and infrastructure
Common Questions
Can I get a visa just by buying a business?
No. You must meet all USCIS eligibility criteria. A business acquisition is part of the requirement — not the only one.
How much do I need to invest?
There’s no official minimum for the E-2 visa, but most successful applications involve $100,000–$300,000+ invested in an active, viable business.
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Many visas allow your spouse and children to accompany you, with spousal work authorization available under some programs (like E-2).
Can foreign investors get SBA financing to buy a business?
Possibly — but it’s more complex. SBA loans typically require the borrower to be a lawful U.S. resident or hold a valid visa that allows them to live and work in the U.S. permanently or for an extended duration. E-2 visa holders may qualify in some cases, but lenders will require strong documentation, and not all are willing to finance foreign buyers. We work closely with lenders who have experience navigating these cases and can advise on the most viable path.
Can the business acquisition be contingent on receiving a visa?
No. Typically, the investor needs to purchase the business before receiving the visa. However, it is possible to make the contract contingent on your immigration attorney confirming that the business could qualify for a visa.
Take the Next Step with Confidence
Whether you’re exploring your options or actively searching for a visa-qualifying business, we’re ready to help. We’ll guide you through each step with transparency, local insight, and international understanding.