The U.S. has many different visa types, and the E-2 visa is designed for foreign nationals who want to start, run or invest in a business in the U.S. It lets investors from certain countries open and operate a business in the U.S. without switching to another type of work visa. This article covers the basics of the E-2 visa: how to apply, what it costs and what conditions you need to meet.
What is the E-2 visa?
The E-2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa (Non-Immigrant Visa) for foreign business owners and investors. With it, a foreign national can start, run or invest in a business in the U.S. An E-2 visa is usually valid for 2 years and can be extended many times, and the visa holder and their immediate family (spouse and children under 21) can live in the U.S.
Who the E-2 visa is for
The E-2 visa applies in the following situations:
- Nationals of countries that have a bilateral trade agreement with the U.S. (for example Taiwan, Japan, South Korea).
- Investors or business owners who want to move capital or a business to the U.S.
- Small or mid-sized businesses that are mainly owned by foreign investors.
E-2 visa requirements
- Investment amount: You need to invest a certain amount in the U.S., usually several hundred thousand dollars (a side note: in my own experience it's $80,000–150,000, depending on the industry. If you're interested in E-2 investment, feel free to get in touch. My business in the U.S. is a brick-and-mortar store, and I have projects that can help you invest and get an E-2 at the same time. You're welcome to email me to talk it over). The amount depends on the type of business, but in general the investment has to be enough for the business to run smoothly.
- Type of business: The E-2 visa covers all kinds of industries, from restaurants and retail stores to tech companies. But the business must show that it contributes to the U.S. economy and has a real operating plan.
- Ownership requirement: The investor must own at least 50% of the business and be its key decision-maker.
- Application process:
- Prepare your documents, including a business plan, proof of investment and financial statements.
- Submit the visa application and supporting materials to the U.S. consulate, then go through the interview and review.
- You need to show that you have enough money to support yourself and run the business.
Strengths and limits of the E-2 visa
Strengths:
- Family: E-2 visa holders can bring their immediate family, including a spouse and children under 21.
- Repeated extensions: The E-2 visa is valid for 2 years and can be extended again and again, as long as the business still qualifies.
- Work authorization: Your spouse can get permission to work.
Limits:
- Only a limited number of countries qualify for this visa (not every country is on the treaty list).
- The investor has to keep running the business, or the visa may not be renewed.
E-2 visa costs
There's no fixed cost for an E-2 visa. These are the usual expenses:
- Application fee: About $205 (may vary depending on each consulate's rules).
- Attorney fees: If you hire an attorney to handle the application, fees run roughly $3,000 to $5,000, depending on how complex it is.
- Other costs: For example, writing the business plan, translating documents and getting certificates.
When is the best time to apply for an E-2 visa?
When to apply for an E-2 depends mainly on how much you've already invested and where your business stands. If you plan to put money in quickly and run a U.S. business, the E-2 visa is a very good fit. The application takes time, so it's best to prepare early.
Final thoughts
The E-2 visa is a flexible option for foreign investors who plan to run a business in the U.S. Its main strengths are the possibility of staying long term and the convenience of bringing your family. Of course, a successful E-2 application takes careful preparation and meeting every requirement. I hope this article helps you understand the E-2 application process and what's involved, and helps you make your own American dream happen.