If you are wondering how to extend your E-2 Visa, this article is for you. Below, we will explain the requirements and procedures involved in the process of extending your E-2 Visa and how we can help you navigate it.
What is the Validity Period of an E-2 Visa?
The validity period of an E-2 Visa can range from a few months to five years, depending on the reciprocity schedule between the US and your country of nationality. The validity period determines how long you can stay in the US with your visa.
Extending Your E-2 Visa – The Two Options
There are two ways to extend your E-2 Visa: applying for a renewal at a US consulate abroad or applying for an extension of status within the US.
If you want to apply for a renewal at a US consulate abroad, you will need to follow these steps:
Step 1:
Check the website of the US consulate where you plan to apply for the specific instructions and requirements for E-2 Visa renewals. Some consulates may require you to make an appointment online, while others may accept walk-in applications.
Step 2:
Prepare the required documents and evidence to support your E-2 Visa renewal application. You will need to submit:
- A new DS-160 online application form,
- A new DS-156E form (if applicable),
- A valid passport, a recent passport photo,
- A confirmation page of your previous E-2 Visa application (if available), and
- Proof of payment of the visa fee.
You will also need to provide evidence that your E-2 business is still operating and meeting the E-2 requirements, such as financial statements, tax returns, payroll records, contracts, invoices, receipts, bank statements, etc.
Step 3:
Attend your interview at the US consulate and answer any questions that the consular officer may ask you about your E-2 business and your plans to stay in the US. The consular officer will review your documents and evidence and decide whether to approve or deny your E-2 Visa renewal.
If your renewal is approved, you will receive a new E-2 Visa sticker on your passport with a new validity period based on the reciprocity schedule. You can use this new visa to enter and stay in the US until its expiration date or until your I-94 record expires, whichever comes first.
On the other hand, if you want to apply for an extension of status within the US, you will need to follow these steps:
Step 1:
Check the website of the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the current processing times and fees for extension of status applications.
Step 2:
Prepare the required documents and evidence to support your extension of status application. You will need to submit:
Form I-129, a copy of your passport,
- A copy of your current E-2 Visa,
- A copy of your I-94 record, and
- Proof of payment of the filing fee.
You will also need to provide evidence that your E-2 business is still operating and meeting the E-2 requirements, such as financial statements, tax returns, payroll records, contracts, invoices, receipts, bank statements, etc.
Step 3:
Mail your application package to the USCIS service center that has jurisdiction over your place of residence in the US. You can find the address and instructions on the USCIS website.
Step 4:
Wait for USCIS to process your application and send you a receipt notice and a biometrics appointment notice (if applicable). You will need to attend the biometrics appointment at the designated location and provide your fingerprints and photograph.
We Can Help You Extend Your E-2 Visa
Extending your E-2 Visa can be a complex and time-consuming process that requires careful preparation. If you make any mistakes in your application, you may face delays or even denials.
That is why you need the help of an experienced and reliable immigration lawyer who can guide you through the process and ensure that your application is complete and accurate.
At Jurado & Associates, P.A., we have helped many investors extend their E-2 Visas successfully. We know the ins and outs of the E-2 Visa program and we can help you prove that your E-2 business is still viable and profitable. If you are ready to extend your E-2 visa, do not hesitate to contact us today. You can reach us by phone at (305) 921-0976, by email at [email protected], or via WhatsApp at +1 (305) 921-0976.
