E2 visa, the most popular U.S. investor visa
The preferred U.S. investment immigration path for 200 years and counting
What is an E2 visa?
The E2 visa is a non-immigrant visa for investors, entrepreneurs, and people looking to run a business in the United States. With an E2 visa, you can start a U.S. business or invest in a U.S. business and work for that business.
E2 visa investors are required to show how they will start or buy a U.S. business, hire U.S. workers, and grow a profitable enterprise in 5 years.
The E2 visa can be renewed over and over as long as the business continues to operate and meet the E2 requirements.
E2 visa timeline
The E2 visa timeline can vary depending on factors like the USCIS service center and case complexity. Based on our experience facilitating over 1,200 families towards their American dream through franchise investment, obtaining an E2 visa for a franchise purchase typically takes between 4 and 8 months.
However, quicker approvals are possible, with some clients progressing to approval in less than three months.
For those starting their own businesses, the E2 visa process typically spans 4 to 5 months, making it an appealing option for entrepreneurs looking to invest in American ventures.
Buying an existing business for the E2 visa can take between 4 and 12 months. The greater variance is due to the time it takes to source the business for sale and evaluate the financials.
If you're interested in learning more about this topic, feel free to read the following article, which explores the subject thoroughly.
What are the benefits of an E2 visa?
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E2 visa approval rate
During the 2023 fiscal year, the United States issued an impressive 54,000 E2 visas, indicating a notable 20% increase from the previous year, setting a new record high. According to data from Investment Migration Insider, Japan maintains its prominent position with an impressive 15,560 approvals, reaffirming its status as a leader in E2 visa issuance. Furthermore, in terms of continents, Asia emerges as the primary region with a total of 27,010 approvals. Moreover, it's noteworthy that the approval rate in 2023 stood at an impressive 90.71%, indicating a high level of confidence in the applicants and the investment projects they bring forth.
E2 Visa Franchise process
Since 2015, we've been committed to facilitating the realization of the American dream. This accomplishment has empowered us to establish a thorough process, ensuring every requirement is met. Furthermore, our due diligence procedure exceeds industry norms, guaranteeing transparency and alignment with your interests. Recognizing the importance of understanding available opportunities for significant investments, we meticulously evaluate each franchise option. This ensures not only meeting our high success standards, but also aligning with your objectives.
Be sure to click below and explore our process in further detail.
Frequently asked questions
How much do I need to invest to qualify for an E2 visa?
To qualify for an E2 visa, the investment amount varies, but at Visa Franchise, we always advise investing more than $100,000 to cover all costs and enhance E2 visa approval chances.
How long is the E2 visa valid, and can it be renewed?
The E2 visa is typically valid for up to five years, and it can be renewed indefinitely as long as the investor maintains the qualifying investment and business operations.
How to apply for an E2 visa?
Applying for an E-2 Visa varies depending on whether you're applying from within or outside the U.S. If you're already in the U.S., you can apply by filing Form I-129 with USCIS, providing documentation of your nationality, investment, and business details. If you're outside the U.S., you'll need to complete Form DS-160 online and schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate in your home country.
Can my family members accompany me on the E2 visa, and can they work or study in the U.S.?
Yes, family members, including spouses and unmarried children under 21, can accompany the E2 visa holder to the U.S. Additionally, they are usually eligible to work and study in the U.S. while residing under the E2 visa status.
What are the tax obligations for E2 visa holders in the U.S. and my home country?
For E2 visa holders in the United States, tax obligations primarily revolve around U.S. federal, state, and local taxes. They are typically subject to taxation on income earned within the United States, whether it's from business ventures, employment, or investments conducted on U.S. soil. However, there are two key considerations that significantly affect their tax liabilities: the substantial presence requirement and worldwide income.
The substantial presence test determines whether an individual is considered a U.S. tax resident based on their physical presence in the country over a specified period, which includes the current calendar year and a three-year period that encompasses the current year and the two years immediately preceding it. If an E2 visa holder meets this test, they may be deemed a U.S. tax resident and thus subject to taxation on their worldwide income, which includes income earned both within and outside the United States. This means that income generated from sources anywhere in the world must be reported on their U.S. tax return and may be subject to U.S. taxation.
Can E2 visa lead to the green card?
While the E2 visa itself does not directly lead to a green card, E2 visa holders can explore other pathways to obtaining a green card, such as through employment-based immigrant visas or family sponsorship, if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Is a sponsor required for the E2 visa?
No, a sponsor is not required for the E2 investor visa. E2 visa applicants applying as a manager or essential employee need a sponsor.
What kinds of businesses meet the criteria for the E2 visa?
Under the E2 visa, various types of businesses are acceptable, including but not limited to: franchises, small businesses, technology startups, manufacturing companies, consulting firms, import/export businesses, and retail stores.