USCIS’s New Adjustment of Status Policy May Change How International Buyers Approach Business Transactions

How International Buyers Approach Business Transactions

A recent immigration policy change is creating significant discussion among foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals wanting to or who already live in the United States.

On May 21, 2026, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued Policy Memorandum PM-602-0199, emphasizing that Adjustment of Status (AOS) is not an automatic benefit, but rather a discretionary form of relief that USCIS officers may approve or deny based on the totality of circumstances surrounding an applicant's case. While the policy does not eliminate Adjustment of Status, it signals increased scrutiny and reinforces USCIS's authority to closely examine applications before granting permanent residence.

For business brokers, this development may be more important than it initially appears. Many international buyers purchasing businesses in the United States are not simply making investment decisions. They are often evaluating long-term opportunities for themselves and their families, including future immigration options. As a result, immigration policy can directly influence buyer behavior.

Following the recent USCIS announcement, we are seeing increased concern among foreign nationals regarding documentation, compliance, and overall business structure. Investors are asking more detailed questions during due diligence and are paying closer attention to issues that may have future immigration implications. Buyers increasingly want to understand how a business operates, whether records are organized, whether payroll and tax filings are properly maintained, and whether ownership structures are clearly documented.

Why does this matter?

Because immigration filings often require substantial supporting evidence. When adjudications become more discretionary, applicants naturally become more focused on ensuring that every aspect of their business activities can withstand government review. In practical terms, this may impact transactions. Some international buyers may spend additional time reviewing business records before moving forward. Others may seek immigration guidance earlier in the transaction process to better understand how a business acquisition aligns with their long-term plans in the United States.

For brokers, understanding this trend can provide a competitive advantage. The ability to recognize immigration-related concerns, anticipate documentation questions, and help facilitate communication between buyers and professional advisors can help transactions move forward more efficiently.

The recent USCIS policy memorandum also highlights a broader shift that business brokers should be paying attention to immigration considerations are increasingly becoming part of transaction planning long before a deal closes.

For international investors, a business acquisition is often more than a financial transaction. It may also play an important role in achieving long-term business, family, and immigration goals. As a precautionary measure, we generally recommend that E-2 investors, as well as other eligible nonimmigrant visa holders and their dependents, maintain their valid nonimmigrant status throughout the green card process, if possible, until they have physically received their green card. This approach can provide an important safeguard because if an application for Adjustment of Status in the United States is denied, the individual may still be able to remain in the United States in valid nonimmigrant status and explore alternative options for obtaining permanent residence. One such option may be Consular Processing, which involves completing the immigrant visa process through a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad, attending an interview outside the United States, and then entering the United States to activate permanent resident status. Depending on the circumstances and the reason for any denial, Consular Processing may provide another pathway to obtaining a green card.

The brokers who understand the evolving concerns that foreign buyers face as E-2 investors or other nonimmigrant categories will make them better positioned to work with international investors and navigate an increasingly global marketplace.



Weiss & Moy, P.C. regularly works with entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners on immigration strategies connected to business growth, investment, and cross-border transactions and is happy to speak to any brokers wishing to understand our evolving immigration system. She also offers free brief consults to any prospective clients you may have.

Jessica Weiss, Esq.
Jessicaw@weissiplaw.com

www.AttorneyJessicaWeiss.com

(480) 994-8888
Weiss & Moy, P.C.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. The process of buying a business is complex and varies from one situation to another. Readers are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals, including business brokers, accountants, and financial advisors, to obtain advice tailored to their specific circumstances. FCBB (First Choice Business Brokers) is not responsible for any actions taken or not taken based on the information provided herein, and does not conduct due diligence on behalf of buyers. Buyers are solely responsible for conducting their own thorough and independent due diligence.