Michael Berman, a Canadian entrepreneur, and his family made a life-changing decision to relocate from Canada to Naples, Florida. Faced with high taxes, limited business opportunities, and inefficient social services in Canada, Michael sought a fresh start and better prospects for his family. Their journey to the U.S. is a compelling E2 visa case study, showcasing how the visa provided the flexibility and control he needed to build a new life. This article explores his strategic choice of the E-2 visa, his smooth transition to Naples, and the flourishing business environment he discovered in the United States.
This is how a Canadian family successfully moved to the U.S.
E2 visa case study: Michael Berman’s journey
Michael Berman, a Canadian entrepreneur, with his wife and 3 kids made the bold decision to leave Canada and move to Naples, Florida, driven by dissatisfaction with high taxes, lack of business opportunities, and dysfunctional social services in his home country. Seeking a fresh start and better opportunities for his family, Michael found his solution in the E-2 visa.
Finding the right path: The E-2 visa
Michael’s choice of the E-2 visa was strategic. The visa provided him with control and flexibility, allowing him to chart his own path without the need for sponsorship from an employer. His decision to invest in the Amazing Athletes franchise played a crucial role in his successful visa application. The franchise model offered a solid business foundation, strengthening his application by showcasing a viable and structured investment.
Settling in Naples, Florida
Upon arriving in Naples in 2021, Michael quickly realized the numerous benefits of his new environment. The welcoming community, excellent school system, and overall quality of life exceeded his expectations. In Canada, Michael often felt the pressures of high taxes and an unstable regulatory landscape. In contrast, Florida offered a stable and predictable economic environment, with no state income tax and a business-friendly climate.
The business landscape in the United States
Running a business in the United States presented new opportunities and challenges for Michael. He found that the talent pool in Florida was eager and dedicated, with many individuals looking to build long-term careers. This workforce, coupled with the strong support from the Amazing Athletes franchise network, helped Michael’s business grow rapidly.
Michael’s experience highlighted the collaborative nature of the business community in the United States. Unlike in Canada, where competition often felt like a zero-sum game, Michael found that American businesses were more inclined to collaborate and support each other. This cooperative spirit was instrumental in helping Michael’s business succeed and expand.
Overcoming challenges and embracing change
The initial months in Florida were not without challenges. Michael and his family faced the pressures of adjusting to a new life while establishing their business. However, their determination and open communication helped them navigate these hurdles. The successful approval of their initial E-2 visa application and subsequent renewals provided a sense of security and allowed them to focus on long-term goals.
Michael’s journey is a testament to the benefits of embracing change and seeking new opportunities. His move to Florida not only provided a better quality of life for his family but also opened up new business prospects that were not available in Canada. By investing in a franchise and leveraging the E-2 visa, Michael was able to create a thriving business and a fulfilling life in the United States.
Reflecting on the American Dream
Reflecting on his experience, Michael acknowledged that the “American dream” was more than just a cliché. It represented the limitless opportunities and supportive community he found in Florida. Unlike in Canada, where he felt a cap on what he could achieve, the United States offered a boundless landscape for growth and success.
To learn more about Michael’s story, I strongly suggest watching the full interview here.
Understanding the E-2 visa
The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that is particularly attractive to entrepreneurs and investors. It provides an opportunity to live and work in the U.S. while growing a business. Additionally, it is renewable indefinitely as long as the business remains operational and meets the necessary requirements.
Eligibility requirements
To qualify for an E-2 visa, the applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: The applicant must be a citizen of a country that has a valid treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States.
- Substantial investment: The applicant must make a substantial investment in a bona fide U.S. business. The investment must be sufficient to ensure the successful operation of the enterprise.
- Ownership: The applicant must own at least 50% of the enterprise or have operational control through a managerial position or other corporate device.
- Active participation: The applicant must be coming to the U.S. to develop and direct the business. This means the applicant must play an active role in the day-to-day operations and management of the enterprise.
- Business viability: The business must be a real and operating enterprise, producing goods or services for profit. It must meet legal requirements for doing business within its jurisdiction.
Benefits of the E-2 visa
The E-2 visa offers several benefits to investors and their families:
- Work Authorization: The E-2 visa allows the investor to work legally in the United States for the business they have invested in.
- Spouse and Children: Spouses of E-2 visa holders are eligible to apply for work authorization, and children under 21 can attend school in the U.S.
- Renewability: The E-2 visa can be renewed indefinitely, provided the business continues to meet the visa requirements.
- No Quota Limitations: Unlike other visa categories, there are no annual quota limitations for the E-2 visa, making it accessible to a larger number of applicants.
Conclusion
The story of Michael Berman highlights the transformative power of the E-2 visa and the opportunities it can unlock. He leveraged his investment in a franchise to secure his E-2 visa and build a successful business in Florida. His journey underscores the importance of thorough planning, dedication, and the willingness to embrace change. At Visa Franchise, we are committed to helping clients achieve their dreams of moving to the U.S. and building prosperous futures. This E2 visa case study serves as an inspiring example of what is possible with the right support and determination.
