E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Lawyer

Launch and Grow Your U.S. Business with Confidence

The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is a powerful option for entrepreneurs and investors who want to live in the United States while actively operating a qualifying business. This visa is frequently used by business owners looking to expand internationally, purchase or launch a U.S. enterprise, and relocate with their family.

At Crightney Immigration, we guide investors through every stage of the E-2 process from strategic planning and eligibility assessment to application preparation and long-term immigration planning so your business and immigration goals move forward together.

What Is the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa?

The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa available to nationals of countries that maintain a qualifying treaty with the United States. It allows an investor to enter the U.S. to develop and direct a real, operating commercial enterprise in which they have made a substantial investment.

In addition to the principal investor, certain key employees of the same treaty nationality may also qualify for E-2 status if they serve in executive, supervisory, or essential skill roles.

Who Can Qualify for an E-2 Visa?

To qualify, the application must generally show that:

• The investor is a citizen of an E-2 treaty country

• Capital has been invested or is actively being invested in a U.S. business

• The business is real, active, and for-profit

• The investment is substantial relative to the business type

• The business is not marginal and has growth potential

• The investor will actively direct and develop the enterprise

For E-2 employees, the role must be executive, supervisory, or require skills essential to the business’s operations.

Is There a Minimum Investment Amount?

There is no fixed minimum investment amount set by U.S. immigration law. Instead, the investment must be considered substantial based on:

• The total cost of starting or purchasing the business

• The nature of the industry

• The investor’s financial commitment to the enterprise

Capital-intensive businesses often require higher investment levels, while service-based or consulting businesses may qualify with lower amounts such as $100,000 or less when supported by strong documentation and planning.

Can My Family Come With Me?

Yes. E-2 investors may generally bring:

• A spouse

• Unmarried children under 21

Spouses are typically eligible to work in the United States without employer sponsorship. Children may attend school in the U.S. but are not authorized to work.

How Long Does the E-2 Visa Last?

E-2 visas are issued for varying validity periods depending on the applicant’s nationality and treaty reciprocity. However:

• Each U.S. entry typically grants up to two years of status

• The visa and status can be renewed indefinitely as long as eligibility is maintained

• The business must continue operating and meeting E-2 requirements

Is the E-2 a Dual-Intent Visa?

The E-2 visa is not a formal dual-intent visa, meaning applicants must state they intend to depart the U.S. when E-2 status ends. That said, holding or pursuing future permanent residence options does not automatically prevent E-2 approval when handled strategically.

Proper planning is essential if long-term U.S. residency is a future goal.

What Types of Businesses Qualify?

Most active, for-profit businesses can qualify for E-2 status, including:

• Consulting and professional services

• Marketing, IT, and digital businesses

• Restaurants, cafés, food trucks, and retail stores

• Fitness studios, salons, and personal services

• Trade, distribution, and import/export companies

• Franchises and established operating businesses

Purely passive or speculative investments typically do not qualify.

E-2 Application Process (Overview)

While every case is unique, the E-2 process often includes:

1. Selecting or acquiring a qualifying U.S. business

2. Structuring and committing the investment

3. Preparing financial, corporate, and source-of-funds documentation

4. Developing a compliant business plan (when required)

5. Filing through a U.S. consulate abroad or USCIS (depending on circumstances)

6. Completing any required interview or follow-up requests

Processing times vary by filing location and case complexity.

Why Work With Crightney Immigration?

E-2 visas sit at the intersection of immigration law and business strategy. Successful cases require more than forms they require structure, foresight, and compliance.

We assist E-2 investors by:

• Evaluating E-2 eligibility and long-term options

• Advising on business selection and investment structure

• Supporting source-of-funds documentation

• Coordinating E-2 business plans where required

• Preparing complete, well-organized applications

• Providing guidance for renewals and future green card pathways

All legal services are provided with professional confidentiality and strategic focus.

Thinking About Investing in the U.S.?

If you are considering launching, purchasing, or expanding a business in the United States, the E-2 visa may be an effective option but only if structured correctly.

Speak With an Immigration Professional 

Speak with an immigration professional to assess your eligibility and build a strategy aligned with your business and long-term goals.

U.S. Immigration Disclaimer
Crightney Immigration provides immigration consulting and administrative support services. U.S. immigration matters may involve collaboration with U.S. licensed attorneys where required by law. This website provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.