E-1 / E-2 Treaty Investor Visa

The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa allows foreign entrepreneurs and investors from treaty countries to live and work in the United States based on a significant investment in a U.S. business. This visa offers flexibility for business owners and key employees looking to develop and direct a company in the U.S.

Our firm assists investors in structuring their investments, preparing strong applications, and ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration laws to maximize approval chances.

Who Qualifies for an E-2 Visa?

To qualify for an E-2 visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Citizenship

Must be a national of a country that has an E-2 treaty with the United States.

Ownership & Control

 Must own at least 50% of the U.S. business or hold a key managerial role.

Operational Business

The business cannot be marginal; it must generate enough revenue to support the investor and contribute to the U.S. economy.

Substantial Investment

Must invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business (generally at least $100,000, but no fixed minimum is required).

Lawful Source of Funds

Investment funds must be obtained legally.

Nonimmigrant Intent

Must intend to return to home country once the E-2 status expires.

E-2 Visa Application Process

1. Business Formation & Investment

Establish or purchase a qualifying U.S. business.

Invest sufficient capital to demonstrate commitment and ensure business viability.

2. Gather Supporting Documents

Proof of citizenship from an E-2 treaty country.

Business registration, licenses, and operational agreements.

Bank statements, wire transfers, or other proof of investment.

Business plan detailing projected revenue, expenses, and job creation.

Lease agreements, contracts, and employee records (if applicable).

3. Submit Application to U.S. Embassy or USCIS

For applicants outside the U.S.: File an E-2 visa application with a U.S. consulate in their home country.

For applicants inside the U.S.: File Form I-129 with USCIS to change status to E-2.

4. Attend Visa Interview

Provide documentation and answer questions about the investment, business plan, and intent to operate in the U.S.

5. Visa Issuance & Entry to the U.S.

If approved, applicants receive an E-2 visa for up to five years (varies by treaty country) and can enter the U.S. to manage their business.

E-2 Visa Renewal & Extensions

The E-2 visa is renewable indefinitely in two-year increments as long as the business remains active and meets investment requirements.

Extensions can be filed with USCIS or obtained by reapplying at a U.S. consulate.

Benefits of the E-2 Visa

No annual cap

allowing unlimited applicants from eligible countries.

Ability to hire essential employees

under E-2 status.

No set investment minimum

providing flexibility for small and medium-sized enterprises.

Dependents can accompany the investor

under E-2 dependent visas. Spouses can apply for work authorization.

Faster processing times

compared to immigrant investor visas like EB-5.

How Our Firm Can Help

To make it easy for you to find the right service, we’ve categorized our offerings into three main areas:

Investment Strategy & Business Formation

We help investors structure their business to meet E-2 requirements.

 

Business Plan Development

We work with professionals to create detailed business plans demonstrating viability and economic impact.

Document Preparation & Application Filing

Our legal team ensures all necessary documents are complete and properly presented.

Consular & USCIS Interview Preparation

We prepare investors for their E-2 visa interviews.

Visa Renewals & Status Maintenance

Our firm assists with extensions and compliance to maintain E-2 status.

Take the First Step Toward Your U.S. Investment

If you are an entrepreneur looking to invest in and operate a business in the United States, the E-2 visa may be the right option for you.

Contact us today for a consultation to assess your eligibility and begin the E-2 visa application process.

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