The Process for Canadian E2 Visa
For many aspiring entrepreneurs and investors, the opportunity to establish a business in the United States is a dream come true. Canadian E2 visa offer Canadian citizens a pathway to realize this dream. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about the E2 visa program.
Understanding the Canadian E2 Visa
The E2 visa is a US immigration program designed to facilitate foreign investment and promote economic growth in the United States. It offers individuals from treaty countries, including Canada, the chance to invest in and actively manage businesses in the United States.
The key features of the E2 visa include:
Family relocation: Relocate to the US with your family.
Flexible investment: No minimum investment is required, though around $80,000 is advisable.
Swift processing: Typically processed in under three to five months.
Unlimited renewals: Renewable indefinitely for long-term stability.
Hiring key employees: Ability to bring essential employees to support your business.
What do Canadian entrepreneurs need to secure an E2 visa?
To secure an E2 visa, Canadian entrepreneurs must meet several key requirements:
You must be a Canadian citizen: First and foremost, you must hold citizenship in a country that has a commerce and navigation treaty with the United States. This makes Canadian citizens eligible for the E2 visa.
You need to make a substantial investment: You must invest significantly in a U.S.-based business, with no fixed minimum but enough to ensure the business’s success.
You must have ownership and control of the E2 business: You should demonstrate ownership of at least 50% of the business, giving you control and the ability to actively manage it.
You should actively manage the business: The E2 visa is for individuals who actively manage and develop the business, not for passive investments.
You must prove the source of investment funds: Documentation demonstrating the lawful source of your investment funds is necessary.
Your business must be non-marginal: Your business should not be marginal but capable of generating income well above what’s required to support you and your family.
What are the steps to follow in applying for a Canadian E2 visa?
The process of applying for a Canadian E2 visa involves several steps.
Business selection
Choose the US-based business you intend to invest in or manage. You can acquire an existing business, start a new one, or purchase a franchise. At E2VisaFranchises, we specialize in assisting E2 visa applicants in finding suitable franchise opportunities to meet their investment goals.
Business plan
Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your investment and business development strategies. This plan is a crucial document during the application process. Our affiliate, ImmigrationBusinessPlan.com, specializes in creating detailed and professional business plans tailored for immigration and visa applications.
Form DS-160
Complete the DS-160 form online.
Visa fees
Pay the visa application fee of $205 per DS-160 form for both yourself and any family members applying with you. Your application will only move forward after the fee payment is verified.
Appointment scheduling
Arrange an interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Canada.
Attend the interview
Attend the scheduled interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in Canada (US Embassy in Ottawa or US Consulate General in Toronto). During the interview, you’ll discuss your business plan, investment, and intent to comply with E2 visa regulations. Bring all necessary documents, including your passport, DS-160 confirmation page, and application fee receipt.
Visa decision
After attending the interview, the consular officer will determine whether you qualify for the E2 visa. Usually, visa processing takes about 7 to 10 business days following the interview. Upon application approval, you will receive your E2 visa, granting you entry into the United States for business purposes. If your application is not approved, the officer will provide an explanation for the denial.
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