The primary visa options for foreign entrepreneurs wishing to start a business in the U.S. are the E-2 treaty investor visa and the L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa, which can lead to permanent residency through the EB-1C green card category. The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa allows nationals from treaty countries to invest a substantial amount in a U.S. business, but it does not provide a direct path to a green card. The L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa is available for business owners expanding a foreign company into the U.S. if they’ve worked for the foreign entity for at least a year in an executive or managerial role. 

If you’re seeking a direct path to a green card, the EB-5 immigrant investor visa is a better option. It requires a minimum investment of $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or $1.05 million elsewhere, along with the creation of ten full-time jobs. Additionally, the O-1 Visa for Individuals with extraordinary ability may be an option for entrepreneurs with a distinguished record in business, science, or related fields.