E2 Visa

The E2 Visa, also known as the E2 Treaty Investor/Trader Visa, is a nonimmigrant visa category that allows entrepreneurs and investors to live and work in the United States. The E2 visa offers a pathway for entrepreneurs, investors, and key employees.

• The E2 Visa permits individuals to invest in an existing enterprise or start a business in the United States. It is available for both investors and traders.

• E2 Treaty Investor Visas: For entrepreneurs who invest substantial capital in US businesses.

  • E2 Treaty Trader Visas: For managers, executives, or special employees of an E2 entity.

• Citizens of treaty countries can apply for an E2 visa to set up operations, purchase existing businesses, or invest in US franchises.

  • Qualifying individuals include those entering the US to develop and direct investments, key employees sent by companies in treaty countries to manage or set up US businesses.

• Nationals of treaty countries must invest a substantial, non-marginal amount of capital in a bona fide enterprise.

  • The investment must be significant compared to the total cost of setting up the business and must demonstrate intent to develop and direct the enterprise.

• Employees of E2 investors can qualify for the visa if they hold executive or supervisory positions, are essential to the business operation, and are of the same nationality as the investor.

• Apply for the E2 visa at the embassy or consulate in your home country.

  • Prepare required documents, including Form I-129, Form DS-160, a valid passport, photographs, proof of income, business plan, etc.

  • Attend an interview at the consulate.

• The E2 visa application process may take several weeks or months, depending on the consulate.

  • Premium processing options are available for expedited processing.

Once approved, E2 status is valid for two years. Extensions can be obtained in two-year increments indefinitely, as long as the business remains active.

E2 visa holders cannot directly apply for a green card due to the nonimmigrant nature of the visa. Adjustment of status to permanent resident is possible but may impact E2 status.

• Helios Immigration offers support to streamline the E2 visa application process, including document gathering, fee processing, eligibility determination, and compliance tracking.