E-2 Treaty Investor
An E-2 visa can allow a treaty-country national to come to the United States to develop and direct a business they have invested in. But the case needs more than a business idea and a bank transfer. The investment, business plan, ownership structure, source of funds, and investor role all matter.
I help clients review E-2 eligibility, organize the investment story, identify weak points, and prepare a clearer visa strategy before filing.
Who This Is For
E-2 may fit a treaty-country investor who will develop and direct a U.S. business. The investment must be substantial and committed to a real operating enterprise; money simply held in a bank account is generally not enough.
The business must also meet the applicable economic requirements. A passive holding should not be treated as the same thing as an operating business. Review the Department of State’s E-2 investor requirements.
Related questions: Buying an existing business and passive rental property investments.
Common Issues
E-2 cases can become difficult when the investment is too small, the business plan is weak, the money trail is unclear, the business is not yet operational enough, or the investor’s role is not clearly explained.
A strong E-2 case should show a real investment, a real business, and a real plan for developing and directing the enterprise.
How I Help
I can help review your investment structure, explain the E-2 requirements, assess potential risks, prepare a document strategy, and identify issues before the case is filed.
I also help clients think through business-plan evidence, source-of-funds documentation, ownership/control issues, and consular strategy when appropriate.
Before You File
Do not assume that forming a company or opening a U.S. bank account is enough. The E-2 case needs to show that the investment is committed, the business is credible, and the applicant is coming to direct and develop the enterprise.
If the business is still early-stage, the strategy matters even more. Weak planning can make the case look speculative.
If you are considering an E-2 investor visa, a consultation can help you review the investment, identify potential problems, and decide on the best next step.