Does Real Estate Qualify as an E2 Visa Business?
Real estate is one of the top industries requested by our E2 visa applicants. However, real estate is often seen as a passive investment by the USCIS, leading to visa rejection. Let’s discuss the real estate industry, the difference between residential vs. commercial real estate, and its eligibility for an E2 visa.
Can I invest in a real estate business for my E2 visa?
The E-2 Visa Eligible Business
Real estate is a booming business even during the pandemic, and many investors are eyeing the market. The real estate market is expected to grow to US$395.40bn in 2023 with an annual growth rate of 2.15%, according to Statista. To understand real estate eligibility for an E-2 visa, we need to under what an E-2 visa is and why it is created.
The E-2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows individuals from certain countries to enter the United States to develop and direct a business in which they have invested or are actively in the process of investing. However, the investment must be substantial, and the business must have the potential to generate significant income. The goal of an E-2 visa is to grow the US economy through foreign investment.
One of the main requirements for an E2 visa is that the investment must be at risk. This means that the individual must have invested or be in the process of investing a significant amount into the business. Additionally, the investment must be active, meaning it is used to generate income and create jobs.
Real estate investment can meet these requirements. However, buying a property and renting it is not eligible for an E-2 visa. Purchasing property and titling it in the name of a US limited liability company (LLC) does not qualify as an E-2 business. That investment is passive; for an E-2 visa, the business must be actively generating income and creating jobs.
Why invest under an E-2 visa?
The E-2 Visa Most Seek-Out Benefits
The E-2 visa allows the holder to bring their family to the US. It also gives work authorization for the spouse, so they can work anywhere they want in the US. Free education for children is also part of your best benefit as an E-2 holder. On top of that, there is no travel restriction, and you can renew your visa indefinitely. You can learn more about the E-2 visa and its benefits here.
Find The Best Real-Estate Franchise For Your E-2 Visa. Chat Us.
Understanding real-estate business
What is the difference between residential vs. commercial real estate?
Commercial real estate refers to property used exclusively for business or investment purposes. Some examples are office buildings, retail centers, warehouses, and apartment buildings. Usually, commercial real estate is leased or rented to businesses.
Residential real estate refers to property for living space. Examples of residential real estate are single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. The property is leased or rented to individuals and families.
While both are in the real estate industry, they are different in terms of regulations. So, please be ensured to understand the differences before investing in one.
What are the eligible real estate businesses?
Types of E2 Real Estate Eligible Businesses
The rule of thumb for an E2 visa is that the business must be substantial, active, and at risk. You must show that it is a real and operating enterprise. Here is a list of real estate business that is eligible and compliant for an E2 visa.
Real Estate Management Franchise
Real estate management or property management franchise is one of the low investment routes to enter the real estate market. You don’t need to have a property to be one. You can manage the franchise’s real estate properties and become the property manager. Your role will be responsible for ensuring the day-to-day operation of the business is going well. If you want to learn more about property management, you can read it here.
Real Estate Brokerage Firm
Brokerage is another option to land your feet in the real estate market. You will be responsible for listing the property and securing tenants for clients. You can build your real estate agency and apply for an E2 visa. However, it is important to understand the law as some states have different laws regarding real estate. You can consult with us to understand more about the business.
Real Estate Renovation/Construction Franchise
Renovation or construction franchise is one of the high-demand businesses by E2 visa applicants. The business focus on providing renovation to homeowners. You don’t need to invest in a property, and you can grow your employee quicker as business growth is one of the key points being looked at by the immigration officer
How can E2VisaFranchises.com help you?
Live your dream life in America today
In summary, real estate investment can be a great business to land your feet in America. The important things are the business must be substantial, active, and at risk, and the business must have the potential to generate significant income. At E2VisaFranchises.com, we have helped thousands achieve their E2 Visa with franchise business. A franchise is the fastest way to get your E2 visa approval. We are well-connected with many top real estate franchises and can help you find the best franchise according to your need, goal, budget, and location. Take the first step by consulting with us here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Franchise is one of the best options for E2 Visa. We help our clients to analyze different options of franchises and ensure your clients find the best franchise according to their need and goals.
No, it is not required but highly recommended. Since you are buying a new business, it is important to see the business yourself and the area of the business.
Yes, you can! E2 Visa does not directly lead to green card. However, there are many ways to apply for green card as an E2 Visa holder.
