E-2 Visa: Build, Invest, and Work in the United States
For Entrepreneurs and Investors ready to grow their business on U.S. Soil
The E-2 Treaty Investor visa allows nationals of certain treaty countries to live and work in the United States by investing in a U.S. business. It’s designed for people who don’t just want to visit — they want to build. If you are a foreign national who already has a business in the United States, you may be eligible to bring key employees from your country to the United States under an E-2 visa.
If you’ve launched or bought a company and are actively directing its operations, the E-2 can give you and your family the ability to live here legally and grow that enterprise.
Who Qualifies
To qualify, you must:
- Be a citizen of a country that has a qualifying treaty with the United States.
- Make a substantial investment in a U.S. business — enough to ensure its success and show your commitment.
- Be entering the U.S. to develop and direct that business.
- Show that the business is real and operating (or ready to open).
Your investment doesn’t need to be millions, but it must be proportional to the business. Think of it this way: it should be large enough that failure would genuinely matter.
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can come with you; your spouse can also apply for work authorization.
Examples of E-2 Businesses
- A construction or landscaping company expanding from Canada or Europe
- A restaurant, coffee shop, or retail franchise owned and managed by the investor
- A consulting firm, tech startup, or design studio with active operations
- A manufacturing or import/export company with ongoing trade
The E-2 isn’t just for big corporations — it’s for small and midsize business owners who are hands-on and invested.
How Long the E-2 Lasts
Most E-2 visas are valid for two to five years depending on your country’s treaty. You can renew indefinitely as long as the business stays active and profitable.
There’s no direct path to a green card, but many E-2 holders later transition to EB-2 NIW, EB-5, or EB-1C once their business grows.
Why Entrepreneurs Work With Brozovich Law
I focus on helping business owners and professionals build realistic, evidence-driven E-2 filings. That means:
- Strategic planning — choosing the right business structure and funding approach.
- Clear documentation — showing how every dollar is invested.
- Consular preparation — anticipating embassy questions before they happen.
Whether you’re launching your first U.S. venture or scaling an existing company, I’ll help you design a petition that makes business sense and immigration sense.
The E-2 Process
- Investment and Setup – Form or acquire your U.S. business, place funds at risk, and gather proof of operations.
- File Form DS-160 and Application Packet – Through your U.S. consulate or embassy (or Form I-129 if changing status in the U.S.).
- Interview and Adjudication – Present your plan, show your investment and intent to develop the business.
- Approval and Entry – Live and work in the U.S. to manage your company.
A well-prepared business plan is essential — it shows viability, job creation, and your long-term strategy.