Challenges for International MBA Graduates in ETA – Seeking Insights

February 02, 2025

by a searcher from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management in Evanston, IL, USA

Hello Community,

I’m an international MBA student exploring ETA and curious about the experiences of international searchers. How do they navigate visa constraints, investor trust, and potential acquisition hurdles? Is ETA equally accessible to everyone, or do international searchers face unique barriers? Can anyone with the right skills and drive succeed, or are there additional factors to consider? I’d love to hear your thoughts and insights!

Reply by a lender
from University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA, USA

Most ETA deals rely on SBA financing, which requires that at least 51% of the acquired business be owned by a U.S. citizen or green card holder. If you’re an international buyer, partnering with a U.S. citizen may be necessary to qualify. Visa requirements are another major hurdle—most international searchers secure either an H-1B or E-2 visa, with H-1B being the more common option. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. My expertise is primarily in getting buyer groups preapproved for SBA loans.

Reply by a searcher
from University of Lagos in Lagos, Nigeria

Hi - does the E-2 or EB2-NIW visa offer any help here? and what about the O1 visa category. Has this proven any helpful to International MBA graduates doing / in ETA?

Join the discussion