Step-by-Step E2 Visa For Turkish Citizens
E2 visa for Turkish citizens guides you to explore how you can live and establish businesses in the United States. Get started today.
E2 Visa for Turkish Citizens
What is the E2 Visa?
The E2 Visa is a special visa that allows nationals of E2 treaty investor visa countries, such as Turkey, to live and work in the United States. As Turkish citizens, you are eligible to apply for the E2 Visa from Turkey. Here is a list of other eligible E2 visa countries.
Key Requirements for E2 Visa Turkey Applicants
1. Turkish Citizenship: To apply for the E2 Visa, you must be a citizen of Turkey.
2. Investor Status: You should either have invested or be in the process of investing in a business in the USA.
3. Management Skills: You need to possess the knowledge and skillset required to successfully build and manage the business.
4. Substantial Investment: Although there is no fixed minimum investment requirement, the investment should be substantial enough to establish and operate a viable business. Typically, it can be as low as $60,000, depending on the nature of the business.
5. Business Viability: The business you are investing in must demonstrate profitability and the ability to hire employees.
6. Intent to Return: You are required to have the intent to return to Turkey once your visa expires. But visa renewal is an option for you to prolong your stay and business in the USA.
E2 Visa Application Process for Turkish Citizens
How to apply for E2 Visa?
Step 1: Establish a Qualifying Investment The E2 visa requires a “substantial” investment in a U.S. business. The investment amount may vary depending on the franchise’s size, location, and other factors. Prepare a detailed business plan outlining your investment strategy and demonstrating the financial viability of the franchise venture.
Step 2: Create a Business Entity Set up the U.S. business entity through which you will operate your franchise. This can be a corporation, limited liability company (LLC), or other acceptable legal structures. Ensure that the business entity is properly registered and compliant with U.S. laws.
Step 3: Gather Documentation Collect all necessary documentation to support your E2 visa application. This typically includes:
Completed DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application form.
Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
Two passport-sized photographs that meet the U.S. visa photo requirements.
Comprehensive business plan detailing your investment and how it will create jobs and contribute to the U.S. economy.
Evidence of the funds committed to the investment.
Franchise agreement and any relevant agreements with the U.S. business.
Proof of the source of your investment funds.
Evidence of your ties to Turkey and your intention to return after the visa expires.
Step 4: Retain Legal Counsel Seek the expertise of an experienced immigration attorney or a reputable E2 visa consultant with knowledge of the specific requirements for Turkish citizens. They can review your application, ensure all documents are in order, and guide you through the process.
Step 5: Submit the Application Submit your completed DS-160 form and all supporting documentation to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Turkey. You may be required to schedule an interview as part of the application process.
Step 6: Attend the Visa Interview Attend the visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Be prepared to answer questions about your investment, business plan, and ties to Turkey. The consular officer will assess your application and make a decision based on the information provided.
Step 7: Visa Approval and Travel If your application is approved, you will receive your E2 visa. Congratulations! You can now travel to the U.S. and begin operating your franchise business. Remember to comply with the visa conditions and maintain the qualifying investment throughout your stay in the U.S.
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E2 Visa For Turkish Citizen Common Challenges
While the E-2 visa provides many advantages, applicants may encounter various challenges during the application process. Some common challenges include:
Substantial Investment Requirement: To qualify for the E-2 visa, the applicant must make a substantial investment in a U.S. business. The definition of “substantial” varies depending on the nature of the business, but it generally means that the investment should be substantial in relation to the total cost of purchasing or creating the business.
Marginality of the Investment: The E-2 visa requires that the investment must create job opportunities for U.S. workers and not solely be for the benefit of the investor. The business should not be considered marginal, meaning it should have the capacity to generate enough income to support the investor and employees.
Source of Investment Funds: Applicants need to demonstrate that the investment funds come from legitimate sources and can be traced back to their origin. Proving the lawful source of funds can be challenging, especially if the funds have passed through multiple accounts or financial institutions.
Business Plan: A comprehensive and detailed business plan is essential to convince the U.S. authorities that the investment is viable and will create job opportunities. Lacking a well-structured and convincing business plan can lead to a visa denial.
Consular Processing: E-2 visa applicants usually need to apply at a U.S. consulate in their home country. The consular officer’s decision can be subjective, and some consulates may have more stringent requirements or a higher rate of denials compared to others.
Duration and Renewals: E-2 visas are typically granted for a limited period, usually up to five years. Securing visa renewals can be challenging if the business has not achieved the anticipated success or if there have been significant changes in the business.
Family Members: While the E-2 visa allows for dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21) to accompany the primary visa holder, securing visas for family members may also come with its own set of challenges.
Change of Status: If an applicant is already in the U.S. under a different visa status, they may need to change their status to E-2, which can be a complex process and may require additional documentation.
It’s essential to consult with an experienced immigration attorney who can guide you through the E-2 visa application process and help address specific challenges based on your unique circumstances.
Comparing E2 Visa With Other Available US Visas For Turkish Citizens
Besides the E-2 visa, there are several other U.S. visa options that Turkish citizens can consider for various purposes. The most relevant visa categories for investors and entrepreneurs are the EB-5 visa and the L-1 visa. Let’s explore the differences between these visas and the E-2 visa:
EB-5 Visa: The EB-5 visa is an immigrant visa program that provides a pathway to lawful permanent residency (green card) for foreign nationals who invest a significant amount of capital in a new commercial enterprise that creates or preserves at least 10 full-time jobs for qualifying U.S. workers. The key features of the EB-5 visa are as follows:
Investment Amount: The EB-5 program requires a minimum investment of either $1.8 million in a new commercial enterprise or $900,000 in a targeted employment area (TEA), which is a rural area or an area with high unemployment.
Job Creation Requirement: The primary goal of the EB-5 program is to stimulate the U.S. economy and create jobs for U.S. workers. The investment must lead to the creation of at least 10 full-time jobs for qualifying employees.
Conditional Green Card: Initially, successful EB-5 applicants receive a two-year conditional green card. After two years and upon meeting the job creation requirements, they can apply to remove the conditions and obtain a permanent green card.
Country Cap: The EB-5 program has a per-country cap, limiting the number of green cards that can be issued to nationals of any single country. This has led to significant backlogs for certain countries, including China, India, and Vietnam.
L-1 Visa: The L-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa designed for intracompany transferees who work for a company with a qualifying relationship (parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch) to a U.S. entity. The L-1 visa allows multinational companies to transfer certain employees to their U.S. offices. The key features of the L-1 visa are as follows:
Qualifying Relationship: The applicant must have been employed by the foreign company for at least one continuous year within the three years preceding the visa application and must be coming to the U.S. to work in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge capacity.
Dual Intent: Unlike the E-2 visa, the L-1 visa allows for “dual intent,” which means the visa holder can pursue permanent residency (green card) while in the U.S.
Duration: The initial L-1 visa is usually granted for up to one year for new U.S. businesses and up to three years for existing U.S. businesses. Extensions can be obtained, with a maximum stay of seven years for L-1A (managers/executives) and five years for L-1B (specialized knowledge) visa holders.
Spouse Work Authorization: The spouse of an L-1 visa holder can apply for work authorization, allowing them to work legally in the U.S.
Differences with the E-2 Visa:
Immigrant vs. Non-Immigrant: One of the significant differences between the EB-5 and L-1 visas compared to the E-2 visa is that the former two offer potential paths to permanent residency (green card), whereas the E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa, and does not directly lead to a green card.
Investment Amount: The EB-5 visa requires a significantly higher minimum investment compared to the E-2 visa. While the E-2 visa requires a substantial investment, the specific amount is generally lower than the EB-5 requirement.
Job Creation Requirement: The EB-5 visa is explicitly tied to job creation, while the E-2 visa requires that the investment is not marginal and has the capacity to create jobs, but it does not have a specific job creation threshold.
Type of Business: The EB-5 visa does not impose strict restrictions on the type of business, but the E-2 visa provides more flexibility in this regard, as long as the business is eligible for the visa.
Treaty Country Requirement: Unlike the E-2 visa, both the EB-5 and L-1 visas are available to citizens of all countries, not just treaty countries.
Duration and Renewals: The L-1 visa has a shorter initial validity period compared to the E-2 visa, but it offers longer total stay limits. The EB-5 visa, on the other hand, grants a conditional green card initially and requires the removal of conditions after two years.
In summary, Turkish citizens seeking to invest or work in the U.S. have multiple visa options to consider. The E-2 visa for Tukirsh Citizens are an attractive choice for its flexibility and lower investment requirement, while the EB-5 and L-1 visas offer paths to permanent residency but may require higher investment amounts and specific qualifications related to the applicant’s employment history and the business’s structure. Before making a decision, individuals are encouraged to consult with an experienced immigration attorney to assess their specific circumstances and determine the most suitable visa option for their needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about the E2 Visa for Turkish Citizens
Can I invest in any type of business with the E2 visa?
The business you invest in must be a real and active commercial or entrepreneurial undertaking. It should not be a passive investment, such as buying stocks. The enterprise should have the potential to generate a significant income and provide job opportunities for U.S. workers.
How long can I stay in the U.S. on an E2 visa?
Initially, E2 visas are typically granted for a period of up to five years. However, the specific duration may vary based on the consular officer’s discretion and the validity of the business plan. E2 visa holders can apply for extensions as long as they maintain their qualifying investment and meet the visa requirements.
Can my family accompany me on the E2 visa?
Yes, E2 visa holders can bring their spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 to the United States. They can apply for derivative E2 visas, allowing them to live and work in the U.S. while the primary visa holder maintains their status.
Can I work for any other employer while on an E2 visa?
The primary purpose of the E2 visa is to manage and develop the U.S. business in which you have invested. While you are allowed to work for that specific enterprise, you cannot engage in employment with another employer unrelated to your E2 business.
Can I apply for permanent residency (Green Card) with an E2 visa?
The E2 visa is a non-immigrant visa, and it does not provide a direct path to permanent residency. However, E2 visa holders may be eligible to explore other immigration pathways, such as an employment-based Green Card, if they meet the criteria for those categories.
How long does the E2 visa application process take for Turkish citizens?
The processing time for E2 visa applications can vary depending on the volume of applications and individual circumstances. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to allow for any potential delays.
E2 Visa Benefits and Disadvantages for Turkish Citizens
Benefits of the E2 Visa for Turkish Citizens:
Faster relocation to the USA compared to other visa applications.
Opportunity to establish and expand your business in the United States.
Your children can attend school in the United States, and public school education is free of charge.
No travel restrictions for E2 Visa Turkey applicants. You can leave the country and return to the USA.
You and your family can live anywhere in the United States.
Free school education for your children.
Disadvantages of the E2 Visa for Turkish Citizens:
The E2 Visa requires active involvement in building and operating your business. If you plan on passive investment, the E2 Visa is not suitable.
As an E2 visa holder, it means you are not a citizen of the United States.
You need to renew your E2 visa every 2 years.
No direct path to a green card or permanent residency however, there are ways to achieve a green card.
Tips for a Successful E2 Visa Application
To increase your chances of a successful E2 visa application, consider the following tips:
Eligibility and Treaty Country: Ensure that you are a citizen of a country that has an E2 treaty with the United States. Each country has specific requirements and conditions for the E2 visa, so check the U.S. Department of State website to confirm your eligibility.
Investment Requirements: The investment must be substantial and not marginal. Be prepared to invest a significant amount of capital in a real and active U.S. business. There is no fixed dollar amount, but the investment should be proportional to the total cost of establishing or purchasing the enterprise.
Business Plan: Create a comprehensive business plan that outlines your investment strategy, the business’s purpose, market analysis, financial projections, and job creation potential. This plan should demonstrate the viability and growth potential of your U.S. enterprise.
Source of Funds: Clearly demonstrate the legitimate source of the funds you intend to invest. The U.S. authorities will want to ensure that the money is not acquired through illegal means.
Ownership and Control: You must have a controlling interest in the U.S. business. It’s crucial to prove that you own at least 50% of the enterprise, or in some cases, have operational control through a managerial position.
Substantial Investment: Your investment should be irrevocably committed and at risk. This means you should have already invested a significant portion of the required capital before applying for the E2 visa.
Tie to Home Country: Demonstrate that you have strong ties to your home country and that you intend to return after the E2 visa expires. This can include evidence of family, property, business interests, or other connections that would motivate your return.
Visa Application Preparation: Carefully prepare all required documentation, including the DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form, supporting financial documents, business plan, and other evidence of eligibility.
Legal Assistance: Consider seeking advice from an experienced immigration attorney who can guide you through the application process, ensure all documents are in order, and address any potential issues.
Consulate Interview: If your application moves forward, attend the consular interview with confidence, and be prepared to answer questions about your business plan, investment, and ties to your home country.
Timing: Submit your application well in advance of your intended travel date. Visa processing times can vary, and you want to allow ample time for any potential delays.
Remember that each case is unique, and the success of your E2 visa application depends on various factors. Being well-prepared, providing comprehensive documentation, and addressing the specific requirements of the E2 visa will greatly enhance your chances of a successful outcome.
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E2 Visa Renewal for Turkish Citizens
The Renewal Step By Step
Apply for your E2 Visa extension before it expires to receive an additional 240 days pending the decision.
To renew the E2 Visa, complete Form I-129 (Petition for Non-immigrant Worker), Form I-539 (Application to Extend or Change Non-immigrant Status), and the Arrival/Departure document (Form I-94). Additionally, include a copy of the original Notice of Action (Form I-797) if your status was previously extended, a copy of your passport and E2 Visa, an employer letter explaining the need for extension, and copies of personal and business tax returns for the past two years, including payroll tax returns.
How Can We Help You?
As E2VisaFranchises.Com, our primary goal is to be your trusted partner in realizing your dreams of investing in a U.S. franchise business under the E2 visa program. Our team of experienced franchise consultants and immigration experts is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and successful visa application. We understand the unique challenges faced by Turkish citizens during the E2 visa application, and we are well-equipped to address them with tailored solutions.
With our in-depth knowledge of the U.S. franchise industry and E2 visa requirements, we can assist you in identifying the most suitable franchise opportunities that align with your interests, experience, and investment capabilities. Our support doesn’t end there – we will work closely with you to prepare a compelling business plan, source the necessary documentation, and provide expert guidance throughout the application journey.
Our commitment to your success extends beyond visa approval, as we offer ongoing support to help you build and manage your U.S. franchise business effectively. Let us be your trusted partner on this exciting venture, helping you navigate the complexities of the E2 visa process with confidence and unlocking the doors to endless entrepreneurial possibilities in the United States. Consult today.