E2 VISA Q&A: Processes & Exclusive Benefits

We compile E2 Visa Q&A from E2 Visa requirements, processes, and advantages which the United States is offering for treaty investors

The E2 Visa Is US Best Investor Visa

What is E2 Visa?

The E2 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa designed for individuals from treaty countries who have the intention to invest in and establish a business within the United States.

Who qualifies for E2 visa?

Individuals who hold citizenship in treaty countries and are currently engaged in or planning to invest in a business venture within the United States are eligible for the E2 Visa. Additionally, it is essential to possess the necessary skills to effectively operate and manage a business. It is crucial that the business established is not considered marginal, meaning it should generate profits and have the potential to expand by employing additional staff as the business grows.

E2 Visa Q&A

What are the E2 treaty country list?

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Treaty Countries

The E2 Visa is available to individuals who hold citizenship in certain countries. Here is a comprehensive list of treaty countries that qualify for the E2 Visa: Argentina, Armenia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Grenada, Honduras, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Latvia, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Philippines, Romania, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Suriname, Taiwan, Tunisia, Turkey, United Kingdom, Australia, Albania, Mongolia, Finland, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Sweden, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cameroon, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Liberia, Lithuania, Mexico, Montenegro, Poland, Serbia, Senegal, Thailand, Oman, Ethiopia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Brazzaville, Kinshasa, Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, and Ukraine. If you are a citizen of any of these countries, you are eligible to apply for an E2 Visa.

E-2 Visa minimum investment

There is no required investment for E-2 Visa; however, the initial \$100,000 investment is advisable. Based on our experience, a $100,000 investment is the perfect amount to quality and exceed the E2 Visa application. You can chat with us here if you want to consult your investment budget.

Does the investment need to be all cash?

No. There are several ways to meet the E2 investment requirements. From tangible assets (equipment, machinery), inventory stocks, patents, trademarks, and licenses.

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E2 Visa Q&A: How to apply for an E2 Visa?

Two methods to apply for E2 Visa

– If you are currently residing in the United States, you have the option to apply for a change in your visa status to an E-2 visa. This process can be done through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It is important to note that once your E-2 visa is approved, you will not be able to leave the country and re-enter.

– Alternatively, you can choose to apply for an E-2 visa through your country’s embassy. In many cases, applying through a consulate is recommended as it allows for more flexibility in terms of travel once the visa is issued. Applying for a status change within the US will typically grant you a two-year validity for the visa. However, depending on your individual circumstances, a status change may be more convenient. It is advised to discuss this matter with your consultant before initiating the application process. 

What are the required documents for E2 Visa?

If you are applying for an E2 Visa for the first time, here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form.
2. Provide a photocopy of your passport with a minimum validity of 6 months.
3. Submit certificates or documents that prove family relationships and marital status for each applicant. For children under the age of 21, provide birth certificates.
4. Include a statement of intent to leave the United States upon the termination of E2 status.
5. Prepare a cover letter describing your company, role, and the beneficiary.
6. Develop a five-year business plan that includes profit/loss projections.
7. Submit copies of IRS-reported sales for the two years preceding the application, along with the profit and loss statement for the current year (if applicable).
8. Provide W-2 and W-4 tax forms.
9. Include records of employee salaries (if any), including employee data such as names and pay rates, and copies of W-2s for new businesses.
10. Submit proof of ownership shares in the company.
11. Prepare an organization chart that demonstrates the full ownership structure.
12. Provide legal proof of ownership.
13. Include photocopies of the bio-data page of the passports.
14. Submit proof of investment, such as contracts.
15. Include your resume or curriculum vitae.
16. Provide documentation that showcases your expertise and skills.

For more information about the application process, you can also visit the USCIS website.

How long is the E2 Visa application process?

It usually takes 3-6 months to get an E2 visa. However, if you want to get your E2 visa faster, you can choose premium processing. For a small additional fee, you can get your visa within 15 days. Paying a premium processing fee may increase your chances of getting an E2 visa.

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Interview Process for E2 Visa

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Will I need to interview at the embassy?

Yes, it is part of the E2 Visa application process. We compile a list of the most asked interview questions:

  1. How much money did you invest in the business?
  2. Why did you choose this business?
  3. How do you know you know you’re going to be successful in this business?
  4. What is the investor’s role in the business?
  5. Where is the source of the investment funds?
  6. How do you plan to develop the company?
  7. What is the financial projection of the company?
  8. What will be your role in this enterprise as it grows?
  9. Have you ever visited the US before? If so, when?
  10. Do you have a home, vehicle, business, or family in your home country?
  11. What is your plan once the E2 Visa expires?

We recommend all our clients prep for the interview as this is one of the key phases in the E2 Visa application process. We usually do a mock interview session with our clients to ensure that they remember all the business plan’s key points. You can chat with us here if you want to learn more about E2 Visa processes and interview questions.

The E2 Visa Exclusive Benefits

E2 visa holders have many benefits, including:

  • Moving to America can be expedited with an E2 visa.
  • You have the freedom to manage and direct your investment.
  • The opportunity to bring your family along is available.
  • Your spouse can pursue employment in America.
  • Your child can receive free primary school education.
  • Travel restrictions are not imposed. Visa renewal limitations are not in place.

How long is an E2 Visa valid?

The E2 Visa length depends on what is your nationality. The treaty countries’ agreements vary from 3-5 years of visa validity. If you want to check your country’s visa length, you can find it here.

The E2 Visa Most Asked Questions

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What if am not a citizen of a treaty country?

The bad news is you can’t apply for E2 Visa. However, there is a way for you to apply for one via dual citizenship. Many nontreaty citizens from China and India get their E2 Visa using dual citizenship. You can apply for citizenship in Grenada or Turkey and then apply for an E2 Visa from that country. It is one of the most time-saving and effective E2 Visa processes for nontreaty citizens. You can read it here if you want to know more about the process and how E2 Visa Grenada works.

Can I bring my family along?

Yes, you can. It is one of the best perks for an E2 Visa holder. Not only can you build and manage your business in the United States, but you can bring your spouse and under 21 years old children with you on E2 dependent visa.

Can my spouse work under E2 Visa?

Yes, your spouse is eligible to work. You can apply Form I-765 or known as Application for Employment Authorization, to get the permit. We can also help you file the form.

What happens after my children reach 21 years old?

Unfortunately, once your children reach 21 years old, they must leave the United States. They can continue to stay by applying for another type of visa, such as a student visa.

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Finding The Right Business For Your E2 Visa

How to find the best fit business?

There are many options to have E2 Visa-approved businesses as long as you have a substantial amount of investment and own a minimum of 50% of the company. Nevertheless, service-based businesses such as consultancy or home-based businesses are not eligible for E2 Visa. We highly recommend investing in a franchise for your E2 Visa application.

A franchise is one of the best options for E2 because of its track record, proven systems, and profitability path. Investing in a franchise allows you to speed up your business setup and a higher chance to scale and expand the business, which is what E2 is all about. If you are unsure of the business’s profitability pathway and need help to grow the business, this might be a red flag. E2 Visa is created to attract investors and contribute to the US economy. One of the ways is through creating job openings for US citizens. If your business fails to do this, your E2 Visa will be denied or rejected.

We have helped more than 1,500 people achieve their E2 Visa. We take a personalized approach based on your need, skills, and strength. We analyze and share franchise options based on your needs and connect you with the franchises. Doing this will save you a lot of time, effort, and energy so that you can focus on the key things that matter. If you want to know more about our process and step by step to find the right franchise for your E2, you can read it here or chat with us here.

Do I have to own the company to get an E2 Visa?

No, you don’t have to. But, you need to have a minimum of 50% share of the company and have direct control over the company since E2 is not a passive investment visa, and you need to show how you will direct and grow the business.

E2 Visa businesses for sale

We can help you connect with businesses open for E2 Visa applicants.

Can you work in the USA with an E2 Visa?

You are only eligible to work on the business that you apply for an E2 Visa. Any other business outside of that is not eligible. But you can still invest in bonds and stocks.

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E1, E2, L1, and EB5 Visas Differences

DifferencesL1 VisaE1 VisaE2 VisaEB5 Visa
Available to any nationals
Requires one year of experience in a similar business
Can a spouse work under a visa dependent?
Can you renew your visa?
Minimum investmentAs long as it is sufficient to operate a businessNo minimum but must be enough investment to create a sufficient businessGenerally around $100,000 although less is possibleEither $900,000 or $1,800,000
Eligibility for green cardNo, however, can apply via EB5, EB1C, and other programsNo, however, can apply via EB5, EB1(c), or other immigrant visa programsNo, however, can apply via EB5, EB1(c), or other programs

Getting Green Card As E2 Visa Holder

How to change E-2 Visa to green card?

There are two options available to you:

You can initiate the immigrant visa application process by applying at a United States consulate in a foreign country.
Alternatively, if you are already in the United States, you can seek an adjustment of status from a nonimmigrant to an immigrant visa without the need to leave the country.

If you currently hold an E-2 Visa, it is likely that you will pursue the adjustment of status route. It’s important to note that as an E-2 Visa holder, you have a nonimmigrant status, and therefore, you will need to convert your E-2 Visa to an immigrant visa category. Prior to selecting your preferred approach, it is advisable to consult with your consultant to determine the best course of action.

How to find the right lawyer or consultant for an E2 Visa application?

Your chosen consultant or lawyer can make or break your visa application. Be sure to find one with extensive experience and achievement in E2 application. Do google research and find reviews about the company. Also, please get to know the company, its process, and its approach. Share your situation and goals, and ask lots of questions. By then, you can judge and get a sense of how experienced and the approach the company will take once you sign them.

Besides achievement, make sure to find one who can help, guide, and communicate with you. These are crucial things to have since the E2 Visa process is quite long, and a lot of analysis and discussion needs to be done. You must communicate and understand your lawyer’s perspective and decision-making process to have a smooth road. If you want to know more about E2VisaFranchises.com and ways we can help you, chat with us or email us here. It is free of charge.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. It is one of the requirements that can make or break your visa application. Make sure you partner with the right consultant to create a comprehensive business plan.

There is no specific business to get E2 Visa. However, we always advise to go with franchise as it is one of the best businesses for E2 with higher chance of approval. 

You can renew it for unlimited times as long as the business is growing.

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