What is E-2 Visa
The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows nationals of certain treaty countries to enter the United States for the purpose of directing and developing the operations of an enterprise they have invested in or are in the process of investing a substantial amount of capital. Here are some key points about the E-2 visa:
Requirements and Eligibility
- The investor must be a national of a treaty country. (India, Pakistan, UK, Dubai, Bangladesh is also part of treaty countries)
- The investment must be substantial.
- The investment must be in a real operating commercial enterprise.
- The investor must be coming to the U.S. to develop and direct the enterprise.
- The investor must have control of the funds, and the funds must be at risk in the commercial sense.
- The investor must intend to depart the U.S. when their E-2 status ends.
Application Process
- The investor must first establish that the enterprise meets the requirements of the law.
- The investor may be required to provide evidence that their stay in the U.S. will be temporary.
- The investor must file Form DS-160, Nonimmigrant Visa Application, and Form DS-156E, Nonimmigrant Treaty Trader / Investor Application
- The length of time it takes to get an E-2 visa depends on the consulate you are applying to and can take anywhere from two weeks to five months to complete.
Validity and Extensions
The E-2 visa is initially issued for a period of up to two years.
The visa can be extended for up to two years at a time, with no limit on the number of extensions. Spouses and children under the age of 21 who wish to accompany or join the investor in the U.S. for the duration of their stay can apply for an E-2 treaty investor visa.
It is important to note that the requirements and regulations for the E-2 visa may vary by country and state, and the application process can be complex. It is recommended to consult with an experienced immigration attorney for guidance on the E-2 visa application.
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