Plan ahead for U.S. expansion—that’s the clear message from Christi Jackson, Partner and Head of U.S. Immigration at Laura Devine Immigration. In a recent Belly2Belly conversation, she shared what companies need to know before leaping. With more than 20 years of experience advising businesses and individuals on U.S. immigration, Christi emphasized that success comes from foresight, not last-minute scrambling.
Immigration Isn’t an Afterthought
Too often, companies approach immigration late in the process—after they’ve structured the business, raised funding, or even started operations. Christi explained that waiting until “the week before you want boots on the ground” is a recipe for delays and limited visa options. U.S. immigration is not one-size-fits-all. Each company’s structure, funding, and goals directly impact which visa categories are available.
Collaboration Across Advisors
Expansion requires coordination between corporate lawyers, tax advisors, and immigration specialists. As Christi put it, each one is an instrument in a larger concert. If they don’t play together, the music falls flat. Tax structures that make sense financially can unintentionally close off immigration options. Bringing immigration counsel into the conversation early ensures the whole plan is aligned.
Patience and Flexibility Matter
The U.S. immigration landscape is complex and constantly changing. Processing times, shifting policies, and heightened scrutiny can slow progress. Christi encouraged founders to build realistic timelines, exercise patience, and prepare for last-minute policy shifts. Flexibility and a willingness to adjust are critical to overcoming roadblocks.
Funding Shapes Visa Options
For startups and scaleups, the way a company is funded can dramatically impact immigration strategy. Venture capital or private equity arrangements may steer a business toward one visa category over another. Christi highlighted the importance of matching visa planning to the funding model from the start.
Common Visa Categories
At the event in London this September, Christi will share practical insights into common business visa categories. The E2 investor visa, E1 treaty trader visa, and L1 intracompany transfer are among the most frequently used. Each comes with strict requirements that demand early consideration.
Not Magicians, But Problem-Solvers
Christi summed it up best: immigration lawyers are not magicians. They can craft creative solutions, but only within the rules. Success depends on foresight, collaboration, and a willingness to take immigration as seriously as any other aspect of international expansion.
Looking Ahead to September 29
The upcoming panel on 29 September will tackle many of these topics head-on, helping founders assess opportunities and avoid pitfalls when expanding to the U.S. With Christi Jackson on the panel, attendees can expect a candid, insightful discussion shaped by experience across global markets.
Register today to secure your spot.
Additional Resources
For more on this topic, we suggest reading Going Small to Grow Big: The Power of Focused Growth Strategies.
About
MEET helps international B2B & B2G companies gain traction and scale in the U.S. through trade shows, events, and strategic connections. Contact Bill Kenney for a no-obligation conversation: bill@meetroi.com or +1 (860) 573-4821.