This guide is designed to assist entrepreneurs, VSEs (TPE), and SMEs (PME) in establishing a presence in the United States. It also serves to coach and prepare future expatriates and their families for working and living in the US.

Primary Goal: The central objective is to dispel the myths, preconceived ideas, false information, and stereotypes surrounding the United States. While the US is a place where success is possible, it is not a place where one is automatically awaited. Success requires first understanding the country, its cultural differences, history, and operational modes.

Key Content Areas:

• Financial Preparation and Risk: Establishing an enterprise in the US is expensive. It is recommended to estimate a budget that is, on average, five times higher than for an equivalent launch in France, plus an extra budget for unforeseen events. Success typically requires a minimum of two years.

• Legal and Immigration Foundations: A robust business plan (plan d’affaires) is indispensable, particularly for obtaining investor visas like the E-2 (Treaty Investor) or L-1 (work visa). The E-2 visa, which is frequently used, is now valid for forty-eight months and is perpetually renewable as long as the business remains prosperous. The guide stresses the necessity of consulting specialized professionals—such as lawyers and accountants—who are often Franco-American/bicultural to navigate complex issues like protecting intellectual property and selecting the correct corporate structure (LLC or C-Corp.).

• Work Culture and Management: Working with Americans demands adapting to major cultural differences. Managers should act as a leader and a "coach", communicating a clear vision. Feedback should be "permanent" and often delivered using the "sandwich technique" (positive first, then criticism, concluding with positive affirmation) due to the culture of positivism. Employment is generally "at-will," meaning employees can be hired or dismissed without notice (except in specific cases or large companies). Employee relations are primarily governed by the employee handbook (internal regulations).

• Settling In and Integration: Practical steps covered include obtaining a Social Security Number (SSN), securing housing (warning against rushed purchasing due to the lack of "credit score" for newcomers), and navigating the complex system of personal taxation (federal and state). Crucially, the guide emphasizes that lasting success requires integration, which involves understanding US history, values, and community engagement, often initially found through local associations or religious organizations.

The guide ultimately provides a "roadmap" to help optimize chances of success for those determined to pursue the American dream.

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