The E2 Visa for Canadian Entrepreneurs
What are the eligibility requirements for an E2 visa for Canadian?
One of the biggest E2 visa investors are from Canada. The US government recognizes the importance of Canadian investment and has created various pathways for Canadian entrepreneurs and investors to obtain an US visas. One such pathway is the E2 visa, specifically designed for investors who are citizens of countries with a bilateral treaty with US.
To be eligible for an E2 visa, an applicant must meet the following requirements:
1. Citizenship
The applicant must be a citizen of a country with a bilateral treaty and Canada is one of the treaty countries.
2. Investment
The applicant must have made a substantial investment in a U.S. business. The investment must be substantial enough to ensure the business’s success and create jobs for U.S. citizens.
3. Ownership
The applicant must have at least 50% ownership of the U.S. business.
4. Control
The applicant must have control of the U.S. business. This means that the applicant must have the authority to make decisions that affect the direction and management of the business.
The Application Process
The E2 visa for the Canadian application process consists of the following steps:
1. Find the Right Business
Before you can apply for an E2 visa, you’ll need to find the right business to invest in. The business you invest should be in a field that you’re familiar with, and it should have the potential to be profitable. You’ll also need to be able to demonstrate that you have the skills and experience necessary to develop and direct the enterprise. We recommend investing in a franchise as it gives you a headstart and lower risk.
2. Create a business plan
One of the E2 visa requirements is to have a comprehensive business plan with information about your business idea, financial projections, and marketing strategies. The plan should demonstrate that your business will be viable and will generate enough revenue to support you and any employees you may hire.
3. Establish a business entity in the U.S.
You’ll need to establish a business entity in the U.S. before applying for an E-2 visa. This can be a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or limited liability company (LLC).
4. Invest a substantial amount of capital
You must make a substantial investment in your U.S. business before you can apply for an E-2 visa. There is no set minimum investment amount, but you should be prepared to invest at least $60,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on the nature of your business.
5. Gather required documents
You’ll need to prepare various documents to support your E-2 visa application, including your passport, business plan, financial statements, and evidence of your investment in the U.S. business.
6. Complete the online DS-160 form
The DS-160 form is the online application for nonimmigrant visas to the U.S. You’ll need to fill out this form and submit it online.
7. Schedule an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate
After you’ve submitted your DS-160 form and paid the application fee, you’ll need to schedule an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. During the interview, you’ll be asked about your business, investment, and plans for the future.
8. Attend the interview
Be prepared to answer questions about your business and investment plans. You should also bring all of the required documents with you to the interview.
9. Wait for a decision
After the interview, you’ll have to wait for a decision on your E-2 visa approval. If your application is approved, you can enter the U.S. and start working on your business. If it’s denied, you may have the opportunity to reapply or appeal the decision.
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What are E2 visa benefits for Canadian?
The E2 visa offers several benefits to Canadian entrepreneurs and investors, including:
1. Flexibility
The E2 visa allows the applicant to enter and exit the U.S. as needed to manage the business. There is no travel restriction.
2. Spousal Employment
The spouse of the E2 visa holder is eligible to apply for a work permit to work in the U.S.
3. Dependents
Dependents of the E2 visa holder, including children under 21, are eligible to attend U.S. public school for free.
4. Pathway to Permanent Residence
While the E2 visa does not lead directly to permanent residence, it can be a stepping stone to permanent residence. After several years of successful business operation, the E2 visa holder may be eligible to apply for permanent residence under one of the U.S. immigration programs.
How long is the Canada E2 visa processing time?
In general, it takes from 2 weeks to 4 months.
The processing time varies depending on various factors, such as the completeness of the application and the volume of applications being processed in the U.S. consulate in Canada.
If you are planning to apply for an E2 visa, consult with our team for free. We will help and guide you to ensure that you take the right step and be confident with your investment in the USA. Consult today.