E-2 Treaty Investor Visa

The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa allows entrepreneurs, investors, and business professionals from treaty countries to enter and work in the United States based on a substantial investment in a U.S. enterprise. This visa is ideal for individuals seeking to start, purchase, or manage a business in the U.S. while maintaining flexibility and renewability as long as the business remains operational.

Key Aspects of the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa:

• Eligibility: Applicants must be citizens of a country that has a Treaty of Commerce and Navigation or a Bilateral Investment Treaty with the United States. Only nationals from treaty countries are eligible for E-2 status.
• Investment Requirement: The investor must make a substantial investment in a legitimate U.S. enterprise. The investment must be sufficient to ensure successful business operations and must be at risk — meaning it could result in a financial loss if the business fails.
• Ownership and Control: E-2 applicants must own at least 50% of the business or have operational control through a senior managerial or executive position. The enterprise must be a bona fide, active commercial business that generates profit and employment opportunities.
• Comprehensive Business Plan: A detailed business plan must accompany the application, outlining the business model, projected revenue, staffing, market strategy, and economic impact within the U.S.
• Treaty Countries: Only citizens of designated treaty countries are eligible. The list is subject to periodic updates by the U.S. Department of State.
• Visa Duration and Renewal: The E-2 visa is generally granted for up to five years and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the investor continues to meet eligibility and operational requirements.
• Employment Authorization: E-2 visa holders may only work for the business they invested in. However, their spouses can apply for work authorization after entering the U.S. on dependent status, while children under 21 can study but not work.
• Dependents: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 are eligible for E-2 dependent visas to accompany the principal investor. Spouses may seek employment authorization, while dependents can enroll in educational institutions in the U.S.
• Path to Permanent Residency: The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa and does not directly lead to a Green Card. However, investors may later pursue permanent residency through EB-5, EB-2 NIW, or family-based categories if they meet the respective requirements.

The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is one of the most flexible and entrepreneur-friendly U.S. visa options, offering renewable long-term stay opportunities for investors and business owners. At Visa2Migrate, we assist applicants in preparing detailed business plans, investment documentation, and compliance filings to ensure a strong and successful visa submission.