E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
Explore opportunities to invest in and develop a qualifying business in the United States. Understand the E-2 pathway and the key considerations before taking your next step.
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Build Your Business Vision in the United States
The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is a U.S. nonimmigrant visa category for eligible nationals of treaty countries who invest a substantial amount of capital in a qualifying U.S. business and seek to develop and direct that enterprise.
It can be relevant to entrepreneurs and investors who want to establish, purchase or operate a business in the United States, provided they meet the applicable requirements.
Who May Qualify for an E-2 Visa?
E-2 eligibility depends on several legal and business requirements. The following are key considerations, not a guarantee of approval.
Treaty Country Citizenship
The principal applicant must be a national of a country that qualifies for E-2 treaty investor status with the United States.
Substantial Investment
The applicant must invest, or be actively in the process of investing, a substantial amount of qualifying capital in the U.S. enterprise.
Real Operating Enterprise
The investment must be in a genuine, active commercial enterprise that provides goods or services for profit.
Develop & Direct
The principal investor must seek to develop and direct the enterprise. Qualifying employees may have separate executive, supervisory or essential-skill requirements.
Understanding the E-2 Business Investment
There is no single fixed minimum investment amount established for every E-2 case. The investment is assessed in context, including the nature and cost of the business and whether the amount is substantial for that enterprise.
- Capital must be lawfully acquired and controlled.
- Funds must be committed to the qualifying enterprise.
- The investment must be at commercial risk.
- The business must be more than marginal.
- The applicant must be positioned to develop and direct it.
A careful review of the business model, investment structure and supporting documentation is important before applying.
Consulting Support for Your E-2 Journey
We help clients understand the consulting process, organize their business planning and identify the next steps relevant to their circumstances.
Initial Case Discussion
Understand your objectives, background and the questions you need to address before moving forward.
Business Planning Support
Discuss business concepts, investment planning considerations and relevant documentation needs.
Documentation Organization
Receive consulting support in organizing relevant business and supporting information for review.
Business Setup Guidance
Explore business formation, licensing and related corporate service requirements where applicable.
Professional Coordination
Where appropriate, coordinate with independent law firm and CPA partners for their professional services.
Ongoing Communication
Stay informed about agreed consulting tasks, documentation and the next steps in the process.
Move Forward With a Clear Plan
A structured approach can help you understand the work involved in exploring an E-2 application.
Initial Consultation
Discuss your nationality, business goals, investment concept and questions.
Business Assessment
Review the proposed enterprise and identify important investment and business considerations.
Preparation
Organize relevant business information and supporting documents for the appropriate review.
Application Process
Proceed with the applicable filing or consular process with qualified professional guidance.
E-2 Visa FAQs
Answers to common questions about the Treaty Investor Visa.
Is there a fixed minimum investment amount for an E-2 Visa?
There is no universal fixed minimum amount for every E-2 application. The investment must be substantial in relation to the cost of the particular enterprise and meet the applicable legal requirements.
Can I apply for an E-2 Visa with any nationality?
No. The principal applicant must generally be a national of a country that has a qualifying E-2 treaty relationship with the United States. Always check the current official treaty-country list.
Can I buy an existing business for an E-2 Visa?
Purchasing an existing business may be considered in an E-2 case. The transaction, investment, ownership, operating enterprise and other eligibility requirements must be assessed individually.
Does an E-2 Visa provide a Green Card?
No. E-2 is a nonimmigrant visa classification and does not itself grant permanent residence. Any separate immigration options require their own eligibility assessment.
Can my spouse and children accompany me?
A qualifying E-2 principal applicant may have eligible spouse and unmarried children under 21 apply for derivative status, subject to the applicable requirements.
Does H&S Worldwide provide legal advice?
No. H&S Worldwide Inc. is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. We provide immigration consulting services. Legal advice and legal representation must come from a qualified, independent attorney.
Explore Your E-2 Visa Options
Have a business idea or investment plan for the United States? Start with a conversation about your goals and the consulting support you may need.
BOOK YOUR FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION ↗Important Disclaimer: H&S Worldwide Inc. is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or legal representation. We provide immigration consulting services only. Information on this page is general educational information and does not guarantee eligibility, visa issuance or any particular outcome. Immigration requirements can change. Applicants should consult a qualified U.S. immigration attorney for legal advice regarding their individual circumstances.