The E-2 Investor Visa is a non-immigrant work visa that allows citizens of certain countries to legally enter the U.S. in order to own and/or run a business enterprise. Those countries must be treaty countries with the U.S. That means, the country must maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. The primary requirement of securing an E-2 Visa is that the applicant have a substantial monetary investment in the business. This investment must generally be sufficient to fund the business or enterprise.
Advantages of Limitations of the E-2 Visa
There are both advantages and limitations to the E-2 Investor Visa.
- Indefinitely renewable:
An E-2 Investor Visa is valid for up to 5 years, but can be renewed indefinitely; as long as there is a need to manage the business, renewal is possible. If the visa is not renewed, the investor must return to his/her country of origin.
- Spouses and dependents are covered:
Dependent spouses of the E-2 Visa holder are able to work in the U.S. and dependent
children are able to secure lawful U.S. residency as well.
- No green card:
The E-2 Visa does not directly lead to permanent residency or green card status.
- Investment:
The E-2 Visa requires a substantial monetary investment in the business.
Qualifications for Securing an E-2 Investor Visa
The qualifications for an E-2 Visa are fairly straightforward. To qualify for an E-2 Investor Visa, the applicant must:
- Be a citizen of a treaty country.
- Invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. enterprise, either by starting a new business or purchasing an existing business.
- Be responsible for the primary development and/or direction of the enterprise.
In addition, our Orlando immigration attorney advises applicants to have a business plan in place and ready to include as part of the application. The business plan should indicate how the business and the visa applicant meet the requirements of the E-2 program. This supplemental information can be helpful in demonstrating your commitment to the business.
Learn More About the E-2 Investor Visa from Gail Seeram, Orlando Immigration Attorney
The E-2 Investor Visa is just one visa option for living and working in the U.S. Consultation with our experienced Orlando immigration law firm is advised to ensure the E-2 Visa is appropriate and the best option for your specific situation. Goals such as obtaining permanent residency might be better met under a different program, for example.
Orlando immigration attorney, Gail Seeram, specializes in immigration law and devotes a significant part of her practice to visas. If you are interested in obtaining an E-2 Investor Visa and need help navigating the application requirements, contact our immigration law office at 1-877-GAIL-LAW or 407-292-7730 to schedule a free consultation.
