Frequently Asked Questions 

About E2 Investor Visa

1. What is an E2 Investor Visa?
The E2 Investor Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows entrepreneurs from treaty countries to invest in and manage a business in the U.S. It is granted based on investment in a U.S. business and is renewable indefinitely as long as the business remains operational.

2. Who is eligible for the E2 Visa?
To qualify for an E2 visa, you must:
✔ Be a citizen of a country that has an E2 treaty with the U.S.
✔ Make investment in a U.S. business (Buy or start business in USA) .
✔ Own at least 50% of the business or have significant control over its operations.
✔ Ensure the business is an active, for-profit enterprise and not a passive investment (like real estate holdings).

3. Citizens of which countries are eligible for the E2 Investor Visa in the U.S.?
The E2 visa is available to nationals of countries that have a E2 treaty with the U.S. Some eligible countries include: Canada, United Kingdom, Spain, Philippines, Thailand, Srilanka, Mexico etc. 

4. How much investment is required for an E-2 visa?

There is no fixed minimum investment amount for an E-2 visa. However, the investment must be "substantial" and sufficient to ensure the successful operation of the business. Generally, investments of $100,000 or more are considered strong, but lower investments may qualify depending on the type of business.

5. What types of businesses qualify for the E2 Visa?
Most active, for-profit businesses qualify, including:
✔ Franchises
✔ Retail stores (Gas stations, convenience stores, Hair & Beauty salons etc)
✔ Restaurants and cafés

✔ IT & consulting firms
✔ Service-based businesses (cleaning, tutoring, marketing, etc.)
✔ Manufacturing businesses etc.

Real estate investment alone does not qualify unless it is structured as an active business (e.g., property management company).

6. Can I start a new business or should I buy an existing one?
You can do either. Buying an existing business or franchise may be advantageous as it shows an operational history, reducing the risk of visa denial. Starting a new business is also possible, but you must demonstrate that the business will be operational and profitable.

Application & Processing

7. How long does it take to get an E2 Visa?
Processing times vary based on the U.S. Embassy in your country. On average:
✔ 2–4 months under standard processing
✔ 2–4 weeks with premium processing (if applicable)

8. Can my spouse and children come with me?
Yes! Your spouse and children under 21 can join you on an E2 dependent visa. Spouses can apply for work authorization to work anywhere in the U.S., while children can attend school but cannot work.

9. Can I work for another company while on an E2 Visa?
No. E2 visa holders can only work for the business they invested in. However, if you expand or open new businesses under the same company, you may be able to work in those as well.

Visa Renewal & Transition to Green Card

10. How long is the E2 Visa valid?
Validity depends on your nationality, typically ranging from 1 to 5 years. It can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business remains operational and profitable.

11. Can an E2 Visa lead to a Green Card?
The E2 visa does not directly lead to a Green Card. However, many investors transition to permanent residency through:
✔ EB-5 Investor Visa (if you invest $800,000+ and create 10 jobs)
✔ Employment-based Green Cards (EB-2/EB-3)
✔ Family sponsorship if eligible

Bizviza America Inc. Services

12. How can Bizviza America Inc. help me?
We offer a comprehensive E2 Visa consulting service, including:
✔ Business Selection – Finding the right business opportunity
✔ Investment Guidance – Structuring your investment properly
✔ Business Setup – Legal registration, licensing, and banking
✔ Visa Documentation – Preparing and filing your E2 visa application through experienced & expert E2 attorney/lawyer.
✔ Relocation Support – Helping you and your family settle in the U.S.

13. Do you provide businesses for sale or franchise options?
Yes! We work with a network of businesses and franchises suitable for E2 investors, ensuring they meet the visa requirements.

14. What are the next steps to start my E2 visa process?
Contact us today for a free consultation! We will evaluate your case, suggest business options, and guide you through the process from start to finish.