Indian tech founders are now choosing to expand their companies in the United States instead of going for investment-based visas. According to Naresh M. Gehi, Founder and Principal Attorney of Gehi & Associates in New York, “Founders today want pathways that combine legal residency with operational flexibility.”
This shows that many founders now understand that immigration planning should support their business growth, not function as a separate process. Gehi Law India helps clients set up US subsidiaries, transfer key staff, and align immigration plans with their overall business strategy.
The EB-5 visa allows foreign investors to get US residency by investing money in approved projects. While this option can work for some, it may not suit founders who want to stay actively involved in running their businesses.
The program usually requires passive investment and depends on job creation targets that may not be directly linked to the founder’s own company. This can limit their control over business outcomes.
“EB-5 can be effective for investors who prioritize residency over business control, but many founders prefer strategies that allow them to maintain operational involvement and preserve capital for growth initiatives,” Gehi explained.
Many founders are now choosing the L1 intracompany transfer visa. This option allows them to open a US subsidiary and transfer executives or managers from their parent company to the United States.
Key benefits of the L1 visa
The L1 visa gives founders control over their US operations and lets them make key business decisions. It also allows them to use their capital for business growth instead of passive investments.
Having a US presence also builds credibility with customers, partners, and investors. Over time, the L1 visa can open doors to permanent residency or other long-term visa options. “This approach allows entrepreneurs to integrate immigration planning with business objectives. Residency becomes a tool that reinforces growth, not a separate administrative burden,” he said.
Indian founders are increasingly choosing corporate expansion over the EB-5 route because it connects immigration with real business operations. The L1 visa offers flexibility, control, and a path for long-term growth.
With proper guidance, U.S. expansion can help founders achieve both business success and personal residency goals, turning immigration from a formal requirement into a smart business strategy.