The E-2 visa is an investor visa for those who wish to live and work in the USA. It’s an important avenue for foreign investors looking to do business in the U.S., as it offers a way to receive residency rights while engaging with their investments. Navigating the process of requesting an E-2 Visa can be difficult and time-consuming, so it’s important to understand the requirements and process involved.

To increase your chances of being approved for the visa, you should be familiar with all the necessary paperwork and have evidence that you have a legitimate business venture in the U.S. It is also essential to ensure that your activities are strictly related to the investment and that you have sufficient funds to support your business. Aside from the paperwork and evidence, there are several other potential problems foreign investors may face when applying for an E-2 Visa. Keep reading to know more!

8 Most Common Questions About E-2 Visas

1. What Other Financial Transactions Qualify As “Investments”?

Investments can include cash contributions, capital funds, loans from financial institutions, and the establishment of an enterprise. Investments must be made in a real operating commercial enterprise and may not be passive investments such as stocks or bonds.

2. What Are The Advantages Of Applying For An E-2 Visa?

An E-2 visa holder is eligible to work legally in the company that is the investment vehicle in the U.S., travel freely in and out of the country, stay on a prolonged basis with two-year extensions, bring their dependents or accompanying relatives, and even have their spouse work while in the U.S.

3. How Long Can I Stay In The U.S. On An E-2 Visa?

The duration of stay varies depending on the country of origin, but generally, an E-2 visa holder can stay for two years from the date the visa is issued. However, it is possible to renew this status for additional two-year periods, provided the requirements are still met.

4. Can I Renew My E-2 Visa Stamp In My Passport While In The U.S.?

Yes, renewing an E-2 visa inside the US is possible as long as all requirements are still met. It is crucial to note that this procedure can take several weeks and must be done before the expiration of the current visa.

5. Are There Any Travel Restrictions On An E-2 Investor Visa?

No, an E-2 visa holder has unlimited travel rights in and out of the U.S. for business or pleasure. However, it is crucial to ensure that all documentation is kept up-to-date and that the visa is valid for the duration of the stay.

6. Can I Bring My Dependents On An E-2 Visa?

Yes, dependents are allowed to accompany an E-2 holder. That includes spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21. Dependents must apply for their visa either at the same time as the applicant or later.

7. Can My Dependents Work In The E-2 Status?

Dependents can work in the U.S., with  an Employment Authorization Document (AD). This document must be applied separately and cannot be obtained automatically with the E-2 visa holder.

8. Where Should I File My E-2 Visa Application?

Applications should be submitted to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country of residence. If approved, you will receive a visa stamp in your passport, allowing you to travel to the U.S. and apply to enter the country at a port of entry.

Hire A Professional Immigration Attorney & Work On Your E-2 Visa Application 

Immigration law is complicated, and applying for an E-2 visa can be overwhelming, not to mention you may face biases. So if you want to ensure success, working with professionals like Presti Law Firm is best. We are qualified immigration attorneys who can help you navigate all of the E-2 Visa requirements, gather the necessary documents, and increase your chances of getting your application approved.

At Presti Law Firm, we understand how frustrating and time-consuming the visa process can be, feeling uncertain about your future, and how this process can affect your family. That’s why we aim to provide reliable legal services to help you throughout the visa application process. No one deserves to feel overwhelmed or lost while applying for a visa.