E-2 Investor Visa
The E-2 investor visa is a nonimmigrant visa for investors, entrepreneurs, and people looking to run a business in the United States. With an E-2 visa, you can start a US business or invest in a US business and work for that business.
There are 8 main requirements to qualify for an E-2 visa:
You must be a national of a country with an E-2 treaty with the United States.
You must have the intent to depart the US once your E-2 status ends.
You must make a substantial investment in a US company. There is no $ amount specified in the regulations.
Your E-2 business must be an active, for-profit business.
The business that you invest in cannot be considered a marginal enterprise.
You must be entering the United States to direct and develop your E-2 business.
The source of your investment funds must be lawful.
Your investment must be irrevocably committed to the E-2 business and must be at-risk.
Duration of Stay
E-2 status is valid for two year increments, with an extension of two years at each entry. Visa stamps are valid for up to five years, depending on country of nationality and visa reciprocity.
Dependents
E-2 visa applicants are permitted to include spouses and children as dependents in E-2D status. Once in the U.S., an E-2D visa holding spouse is eligible to work pursuant to status.