Can I open an international consulting firm in an urban TEA?

Yes. In principle, it is possible to open an international consulting firm in the United States, including in an area classified as a TEA (Targeted Employment Area). Opening the business itself is a commercial and regulatory matter, not an immigration one.

The distinction arises when you want to connect that venture to EB-5. At that point, the project must comply with the immigrant investor program’s rules, including demonstrating the creation of the required number of jobs for workers in the United States. The TEA functions as the mechanism that allows a reduced minimum investment amount, not as an exemption from those obligations.

• For EB-5 purposes, you must show that the project creates (or has the potential to create) the required jobs.
• Viability typically depends on a solid business plan covering investment, job creation, and financial sustainability.
• Each state or municipality may have its own rules for opening a business.

Because program requirements change, it is worth confirming the current rules with USCIS and reviewing your plan with a specialist before investing.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.