Most employment-based visas and green cards require sponsorship by the employer, but some types allow for self-sponsorship. We can explore if any of these options would work for you:

E visa (Treaty Traders/Investors): Entrepreneurs can get a visa by buying or establishing a qualifying business in the United States then applying for an E visa to manage the business. To qualify, the business must have the present or future capacity to generate significantly more than enough income needed to provide a living for the owner and their family.

EB-1 (Extraordinary Ability) Green Card: People with extraordinary ability in business, science, arts, etc. can self-sponsor for a green card under the first preference category. To qualify, you must have sustained national or international acclaim, be among the small percentage at the very top of your field, and meet at least 3 of 10 evidence categories.

EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) Green Card: Individuals qualifying for a National Interest Waiver (NIW) may self-petition without needing sponsorship from an employer. You must first qualify for EB-2 classification through an advanced degree or exceptional ability. The NIW requires showing their proposed endeavor (work) has substantial merit and national importance, that they are well-positioned to advance the endeavor, and that their proposed endeavor would benefit the United States.

EB-4 (Special Immigrants) Green Card: Ministers may self-petition for an EB-4 green card without needing sponsorship from their religious organization.

EB-5 (Immigrant Investors) Green Card: Foreign nationals who invest in new commercial enterprises that create at least 10 jobs may qualify for an EB-5 green card.