The E-2 Visa for Treaty Investors stands as a non-immigrant pathway crafted for investors aiming to enter the United States for steering and cultivating a substantial investment in a business. Explore critical insights into this invaluable business visa and how the Immigration Lawyers at Jurado & Associates, P.A. can assist you in its acquisition.
E-2 Visa Criteria: Nationality
The opportunity to apply for an E-2 Visa emanates from Treaties of Commerce and Navigation, bilateral agreements inked by the United States and specific foreign countries. Presently, more than 80 countries uphold such treaties with the United States. Noteworthy nations, including France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, and Colombia, operate under these treaties. To qualify for the E-2 Visa, Treaty Investors must possess the nationality of a treaty country. The nationality of a business is determined by the individual owners of that business.
Investment Requirement
To secure an E-2 Visa, investors must inject a significant amount of capital into a new or existing business in the United States. A “significant” amount is one that covers the startup costs of the U.S. business. The E-2 investment can manifest through various forms, such as the purchase of products/services, acquisition/lease of physical premises, payment of legal fees, or a marketing budget.
Active Commercial Enterprise
E-2 Treaty Investors must establish a genuine, active business that contributes significantly to the U.S. economy. The operations of an E-2 business must generate income surpassing the needs of the main E-2 Investor and their family. It is crucial, during the E-2 Visa application, to present a detailed business plan with 5-year projections, showcasing the potential success in the U.S. economy.
E-2 Visa Application Process
Open to foreigners from qualifying Treaty Countries, the E-2 Visa requires an investment or an ongoing investment process in a substantial amount of capital in an American business. A detailed business plan with 5-year projections is instrumental in demonstrating the potential success of the E-2 business in the U.S. economy.
Duration of E-2 Status
The duration of E-2 status is determined by the applicable Treaties of Commerce and Navigation. While most treaties allow a maximum visa duration of 5 years, variations exist. The treaty with Switzerland, for example, provides for a maximum duration of 4 years, extendable indefinitely. Some unique E-2 situations may arise, such as the treaty with Mexico allowing a maximum initial duration of 12 months, extendable indefinitely.
Family Inclusion
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can be included as dependents in the E-2 Visa application. The spouse is eligible to work, and children can attend school until the age of 21. However, the E-2 status does not permit the children of the main visa holder to work in the United States. After the age of 21, children of E-2 visa holders must apply for separate visas.
Assistance from an E-2 Visa Attorney
Navigating the complexities of the E-2 Visa application demands the expertise of an immigration attorney. At Jurado & Associates, P.A., our immigration lawyers specialize in delivering business-focused immigration solutions globally. To initiate an initial consultation with our Florida E-2 Visa Attorneys, call (305) 921-0976, email at [email protected], or WhatsApp atĀ +1 (305) 921-0976.
