What is an E-2 Visa and Who is Eligible?
The E-2 visa is a type of non-immigrant visa that is available to individuals who want to invest in and operate a business in the United States. This visa is available to citizens of countries that have a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States.
To be eligible for an E-2 visa, the applicant must invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business. The amount of investment required varies depending on the type of business and the location, but generally, it must be significant enough to ensure the success of the business. The investment must also be a genuine operating business, not a passive investment.
In addition to the investment, the applicant must also have a controlling interest in the business. This means that the applicant must own at least 50% of the business, or have operational control through a managerial position. The applicant must also show that the business will create jobs for U.S. workers, and that the investment will benefit the U.S. economy.
If the applicant meets these requirements, they can apply for an E-2 visa. The visa is initially granted for a period of two years, but it can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business remains operational and the visa holder continues to meet the requirements of the visa.
One of the advantages of the E-2 visa is that there is no fixed minimum investment amount. Instead, the investment must be substantial in relation to the cost of the business. For example, a $100,000 investment in a small retail store may be considered substantial, while a $100,000 investment in a large manufacturing plant may not.
Another advantage of the E-2 visa is that it allows the visa holder to bring their spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 to the United States. The spouse of the E-2 visa holder may also apply for a work permit, which allows them to work in any field in the United States.
Overall, the E-2 visa is a great option for foreign nationals who want to invest in and operate a business in the United States. However, the requirements for the visa can be complex, so it is recommended that applicants work with an experienced immigration attorney to ensure that their application is successful.