Establishing Yourself in America: – Florida Sun

How the E-2 Visa Makes it Easier for Foreign Investors

Are you an ambitious investor looking for business opportunities in the US? The E-2 visa is reserved for nonimmigrants, individuals from countries that have signed an agreement with the United States that allows them to invest substantial capital in a business.

One of the main benefits of this visa is that it gives investors the right to live, work and manage a business in the US. This right extends to the investor's immediate family, providing educational opportunities for children and employment opportunities for spouses. Additionally, principal investors can extend the E-2 visa to eligible employees, including supervisors, executives, managers, and skilled workers. Other key assets are the freedom to travel between the US and home country without restriction and the ability to renew visas indefinitely as long as business is viable.

To qualify, the investor must be a citizen of a signatory country and must invest significant capital in a potential business in the United States. Although no minimum investment amount is set, the business must be active and comply with current legal standards. The investor must demonstrate active involvement in the company by owning at least 50% of the shares or having significant operational control.

Application Steps:

1. Determination of Eligibility;

2. Plan your investment;

3. Establishment of business;

4. Submit the request;

5. Prepare for the visa interview;

6. Provide biometric data;

7. Obtain a visa;

8. Maintain E-2 status.

It is important to note that while the E-2 visa provides a quick and flexible path to starting a business in the United States, it does not lead directly to permanent residency. Investors should weigh this factor against their long-term goals. Visa renewal is possible every two years, however, as long as the contractual investor actively manages and operates the business.

To apply for an E-2 visa, applicants must verify their eligibility, plan an investment, establish their business in the United States, and submit an application with all required documents. Be prepared to discuss the nature and objectives of the investment, business in the US, including providing biometrics for the visa interview.

Approved candidates get the right to work in their invested company. However, the E-2 visa, while providing speed and flexibility, requires significant investment, active involvement and does not provide a direct path to citizenship, limited to citizens of signatory countries. Therefore, applicants should be prepared to invest significantly and be actively involved in their business to maintain their status.

Starting a business in a new country can be challenging, but with the right information and preparation, it is entirely possible to turn your entrepreneurial dream into reality. Working with knowledgeable advisors is critical to navigating this complex process and ensuring a smooth transition to your new business adventures in the United States.