What is E2 Visa USA?
The E2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows citizens of certain countries to enter the United States to conduct substantial trade or engage in a substantial investment of capital in a U.S. business. This visa is a valuable tool for international entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish a business presence in the United States while maintaining their foreign citizenship. In this article, we will explore the E2 visa, its requirements, benefits, and the process of obtaining it.
The E2 visa is a Treaty Trader or Treaty Investor visa, which means that it is available to citizens of countries that have a treaty of commerce with the United States. The treaty must specifically authorize the issuance of E2 visas to citizens of the designated country. As of 2021, there are 81 countries with treaties that allow for the issuance of E2 visas.
Eligibility for E2 Visa USA
To qualify for an E2 visa, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
1. Nationality: The applicant must be a citizen of a country with a treaty of commerce with the United States.
2. Substantial Trade or Investment: The applicant must engage in substantial trade or invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business.
3. Business Ownership: The applicant must be actively participating in the management of the business.
4. Legitimate Business: The business must be a real, operating enterprise and not a speculative or marginal enterprise.
5. National Interest: The business must be beneficial to the U.S. national interest.
Benefits of E2 Visa USA
The E2 visa offers several benefits to the visa holder:
1. Multiple Entries: E2 visa holders can enter and exit the United States multiple times during the validity of the visa.
2. Family Members: Spouses and children under 21 years of age can accompany the E2 visa holder to the United States on a derivative E2 visa.
3. Work Authorization: Family members can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work in the United States.
4. Permanent Residence: E2 visa holders can apply for permanent residence (green card) through certain channels, such as employment-based or investment-based immigration.
Process of Obtaining E2 Visa USA
The process of obtaining an E2 visa involves several steps:
1. Business Plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan that demonstrates the substantial nature of the trade or investment.
2. Business Establishment: Establish a legitimate business in the United States.
3. Petition: File a Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
4. Visa Application: Once the petition is approved, apply for the E2 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country.
5. Visa Interview: Attend a visa interview and present the necessary documentation to the consular officer.
6. Visa Issuance: If the consular officer determines that the applicant meets the requirements, the E2 visa will be issued.
In conclusion, the E2 visa is an excellent option for international entrepreneurs and investors who wish to establish a business presence in the United States. By understanding the requirements, benefits, and process of obtaining an E2 visa, applicants can increase their chances of a successful application and a smooth transition to the United States.
