Visas for investment in the United States

The E-2 is a non-immigrant visa for foreign investors wishing to invest in the United States. The main characteristic of this visa is that the investor must be a citizen of a country that has a trade and navigation treaty with the United States. To qualify for the E-2 visa, the investor must make a substantial investment in a business in the USA. Although there is no set minimum amount, the investment must be significant and proportional to the value of the business. The investor must also play an active role in the management and operation of the business.

The E-2 visa is initially granted for an initial period of two years and extensions can be granted in increments of up to two years each, as long as the investment and business continue to meet the requirements. The investor’s spouse and minor children can accompany the main E-2 visa holder as dependents.

It is important to note that the E-2 visa does not lead directly to permanent residence in the USA. Read about the visas that lead to a Green Card here.