What is the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa for?

The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is designed for nationals of treaty countries who invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business and seek to manage it.

Who is eligible for an E-2 Visa?

Eligible individuals are those from countries that have a treaty of commerce and navigation with the U.S. and have made or are in the process of making a substantial investment in a U.S. enterprise.

How much do I need to invest to qualify for an E-2 Visa?

The amount varies depending on the business, but generally, it needs to be a substantial amount that is enough to ensure the successful operation of the business.

Can my family come with me on an E-2 Visa?

Yes, your spouse and children (unmarried and under 21) can accompany you and can also apply for authorization to work and study in the United States.

What is the validity period of the E-2 Visa?

The visa duration varies by treaty but is generally issued for up to 5 years and may be renewed indefinitely as long as the investment enterprise is operational.

Can I change my status in the U.S. on an E-2 Visa?

Yes, you may apply to change your status to another non-immigrant visa or to permanent residency if you meet the requirements.

Do I need a lawyer to apply for the E-2 Visa?

While it's not mandatory, hiring an immigration attorney can help ensure that your application is complete and meets all legal requirements.

What businesses qualify for an E-2 Visa?

Almost any legitimate for-profit business can qualify. The key is that the investment needs to be active and sufficient to sustain the enterprise.

Can E-2 Visa holders work for other companies?

No, E-2 visa holders can only work for the U.S. businesses in which they have invested.

How soon can I start my business after entering the U.S. on an E-2 Visa?

You can start your business operations immediately after entering the U.S. with an E-2 Visa.

United States of America E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Guide

Find out everything you need to know about United States of America E-2 Treaty Investor Visa application process and requirements.

What Is the United States of America E-2 Treaty Investor Visa?

The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is a non-immigrant visa for individuals who invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business. To be eligible, applicants must be nationals of a country with which the United States maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation. The primary goal of the visa is to facilitate economic growth in the U.S. by encouraging foreign investment. Holders of this visa can live and work in the U.S., managing and directing the operations of their investment enterprise. Additionally, it allows for dependents to join the principal investor, where they can also study and work.

E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Requirements for United States of America

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your E-2 Treaty Investor Visa for United States of America. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Nationality
Must be a national of a country with which the U.S. has a treaty of commerce and navigation.
Sufficient Capital
Investment must be significant, though the exact amount varies by the nature of the business.
Active Investment
The investment must be in an active, operating enterprise rather than a passive or speculative investment.
Source of Funds
Must prove the investment funds come from a legitimate source.
Intent to Depart
Must demonstrate the intention to leave the United States once the visa expires.

How to Apply for United States of America E-2 Treaty Investor Visa

Understand the process of applying for an United States of America E-2 Treaty Investor Visa, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Determine Eligibility
Verify that you are a national of a treaty country and that you have or are in the process of investing a substantial amount in a legitimate U.S. business.
Collect Required Documentation
Gather necessary documents, including evidence of your nationality, investment, business operations, and a comprehensive business plan.
Complete Form DS-160
Fill out the online DS-160 form on the U.S. Department of State’s Consular Electronic Application Center website.
Pay Application Fees
Pay the non-refundable visa application fee. Check for any additional fees that might be applicable at your particular consulate.
Schedule Visa Interview
Book an appointment at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country for an in-person visa interview.
Attend Visa Interview
Attend your interview with all the gathered documents. Be prepared to discuss details about your investment and business plans.
Await Visa Approval
After your interview, the consular officer will inform you about the status of your application. If approved, your passport will be returned with the E-2 visa.

Useful United States of America E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Resources

U.S. Department of State

Consular Electronic Application Center

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Your Country

United States of America E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Advice

Before applying for the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa, thoroughly research your eligibility, the amount of investment required, and the potential for success of your business. It’s wise to consult with an immigration attorney who specializes in E-2 visas to ensure that your application is as strong as possible. Properly prepared documentation and a solid business plan can significantly improve your chances of approval.

United States of America E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Guide

What Is the United States of America E-2 Treaty Investor Visa?

E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Requirements for United States of America

Nationality

Sufficient Capital

Active Investment

Source of Funds

Intent to Depart

How to Apply for United States of America E-2 Treaty Investor Visa

Determine Eligibility

Collect Required Documentation

Complete Form DS-160

Pay Application Fees

Schedule Visa Interview

Attend Visa Interview

Await Visa Approval

Useful United States of America E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Resources

United States of America E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

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