E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa allows nationals of treaty countries to enter and work in the United States based on a substantial investment in a U.S. business they own and operate. Unlike EB-5, the E-2 is a non-immigrant visa with no set minimum investment and no job creation quota — making it a faster, more flexible option for entrepreneurs and investors.
Get Started TodayEligibility Requirements
✓Requirements
- •Must be a national of a country that has a qualifying treaty with the United States
- •Must have invested, or be actively in the process of investing, a 'substantial' amount of capital in a bona fide U.S. enterprise
- •Investment must be at risk — not passive or idle
- •Must own at least 50% of the enterprise or have operational control
- •The enterprise must be more than marginal — capable of generating significantly more income than a living for the investor
- •Must intend to depart the U.S. when the visa expires (though renewal is available)
★Benefits
- ✓No minimum investment threshold set by law — typically $100,000–$200,000 is considered substantial
- ✓No annual cap or lottery — can apply at any time
- ✓Initial visa valid up to 5 years, renewable indefinitely in 2-year increments
- ✓Spouse receives E-2 dependent visa with full work authorization
- ✓Children under 21 may accompany as dependents
- ✓Available for both new business startups and acquisitions of existing businesses
- ✓Faster processing than EB-5 — often approved within weeks at U.S. consulates
The Process
Case preparation
4–6 weeksOnce you engage us, we build your case: we tell you exactly which documents we need, review each one, and assemble the filing package. This stage moves at the pace documents reach us — the sooner we receive what we ask for, the sooner we can file.
Business plan & investment
1–3 monthsDevelop a comprehensive business plan. Make the qualifying investment (or show funds are irrevocably committed).
Application preparation
2–4 weeksCompile the visa application package: DS-160, business plan, investment documentation, source of funds.
Consular interview
2–8 weeksAttend interview at U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. Most E-2 visas are processed at consulates, not through USCIS.
Entry & business operation
OngoingEnter the U.S. and begin operating your business. Maintain E-2 status by continuing to operate the qualifying enterprise.
Processing Details
Timeline
2–8 weeks at most U.S. consulates. Some consulates offer expedited processing.
Government Fees
Visa application fee: $315. No minimum investment set by law — typically $100,000+ is required to demonstrate 'substantial' investment. Attorney fees additional.
Key Documents Required
- •Detailed business plan with 5-year financial projections
- •Proof of investment funds (bank statements, wire transfer records)
- •Source of funds documentation
- •Business registration documents, lease, licenses
- •Organizational chart and ownership documents
- •Passport and personal financial statements
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common immigration questions.
Still have questions? Speak directly with an immigration attorney.
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Founder & Immigration Attorney
- •Washington State Bar Association
- •New York State Bar Association
Business Immigration Specialist
- •Licensed Attorney (São Paulo, Brazil)
- •LL.M., Global Business Law
