Welcome to Unfiltered w/ PORCH, where we explore what it means to be an immigrant entrepreneur from the POV of the immigrant.
In this episode, I'm speaking with Patrick Findaro, Founding Partner of Visa Franchise, an immigration consultancy that helps immigrant entrepreneurs move to the U.S under the E2 Investor Visa. He's also the author of Own Your American Dream: 8 Proven Paths to Start a Business and Secure a U.S. Visa.
Immigration to the United States is a touchy topic right now. But Patrick thinks it's important to consider what actually happens versus what gets said. According to his data, Trump's first term maintained an 88% E2 Investor Visa approval rate, just 3% lower than under other administrations.
And he hasn't heard any reports of people on talent and investor visas being denied at the border.
In this conversation, Patrick and I chat about the nitty gritty of the E2 visa process—from business incorporation to visa approval, why senior care businesses get approved faster than fast food businesses, and tips to help you hit investment thresholds.
Key Takeaways
Investment amounts vary by business type: The type of business directly impacts the investment requirement; online consulting needs minimal capital, service-based franchises like cleaning or painting require moderate amounts for equipment and vehicles, while brick-and-mortar restaurants demand significant upfront costs for kitchen equipment, buildout, and inventory.
You can use borrowed money: Loans from family, banks, or rich uncles and aunts all qualify as long as you document the source. Gift money from parents works too.
Business failure has consequences: If your business fails, you must report it and either apply for another visa or leave. You can set up holding companies for visa flexibility.
The first 18-24 months are key: Success requires rolling up your sleeves, working super hard to establish your preferred business culture, getting initial clients, and integrating into the local business community.
Official Links
Connect with Patrick Findaro on LinkedIn
Check out his Own Your American Dream book
Check your eligibility for an E2 Investor Visa
Patrick’s Media Diet
One newsletter you’d never miss: Wall Street Journal
One immigrant entrepreneur that inspires you: He’s contentious, but Elon Musk inspires me to think big
One podcast you regularly listen to: The All-In Podcast
Any books or resources that have significantly shaped your entrepreneurship journey: Traction: Get A Grip On Your Business by Gino Wickman
One Ask
If you got value from this episode, please forward it to one immigrant entrepreneur you know.
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