E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Applications and Renewals for Mexican Citizens
The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa classification is an excellent option for companies and entrepreneurs seeking to start business operations in the United States. Mexican citizens may qualify for this visa under a treaty between the United States and Mexico. Below is a summary and helpful reminders regarding the E-2 Visa classification for Mexicans.
What is an E-2 Treaty Investor visa?
The E-2 visa is available to individuals who have invested or are actively in the process of investing a substantial amount of money in a real and operating commercial enterprise in the United States. The company can be any type of legal, for-profit undertaking that provides some service or commodity. Franchises can often be an effective investment option. One of the benefits of this visa is its versatility, regardless of the type of business or the investor’s qualifications.
The U.S. company can be directly owned by the investor, a group of investors, or another company. Either way, at least 50% of the ultimate owners must be citizens of Mexico. Mexican nationals who are dual U.S. citizens or who have lawful permanent resident (“green card”) status in the United States cannot be counted toward this requirement.
The general purpose of this visa classification is to stimulate economic growth and employment in the United States. For this reason, investors must create U.S. jobs to demonstrate that the company will employ other workers and not just themselves. There is no specific number of employees that must be hired. But we advise to have at least 2 full time employees, if not more.
How much is a substantial investment?
The investment must be “substantial,” although there is no specific minimum amount that can be considered. The goal is to ensure that the business will be able to successfully operate. A strong application would typically have an investment of at least $150,000 – $200,000. The more one can invest, the better.
Who qualifies for an E-2 visa?
The investor must be coming to the United States to direct and develop the enterprise.
During the time the investor is present in the United States in E-2 status, he or she must spend a majority of the time actively working in the business.
The United States does not allow passive investments. In addition to the investor, another executive, managerial, and essentially skilled workers who are Mexican citizens may also qualify for E-2 visas.
What is the procedure for applying?
The U.S. Consulate in Ciudad Juarez is the only consular post in Mexico that accepts and processes E-2 visa applications. All applicants will attend an in-person interview in Juarez for the initial application. Including dependents. Applicants will attend an appointment at the Application Support Center (ASC) to capture their biometric data at the time of renewal. The appointment at the ASC can be made at any U.S. consular office in Mexico and does not have to be made in Juarez.
Once issued, the E-2 visa for citizens of Mexico is valid for one year. As long as there continues to be an investment and the applicant continues to meet the requirements, the applicant may renew the E-2 Visa indefinitely. Unfortunately, though, this type of visa does not automatically lead to U.S. permanent residency or citizenship.
What are the benefits for an E-2 worker’s family members?
Spouses and children under the age of 21 can accompany the principal E-2 worker to the United States. In addition, domestic workers can apply for B-1 visas to accompany the family.
Spouses may apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) once they arrive in the United States in E-2 status. They will be able to work only upon receipt of the EAD.
Conclusion
Many entrepreneurs and corporations from Mexico who wish to invest in the United States consider the E-2 Visa. The visa offers many benefits. Including the ability to renew an unlimited number of times for those who qualify. Also, spouses can apply for employment authorization. If you wish to seek an E-2 visa, be sure to seek the advice of a qualified immigration lawyer. This article has informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Guillermo “Gary” Wiener, Senior Attorney
John W. Meyer, Partner
Foster LLP is a leading global immigration law firm. The company helps employers and individuals obtain nonimmigrant and immigrant work visas and permanent resident options worldwide. Foster LLP works with the most board-certified attorneys in immigration and nationality law in Texas. We guarantee top-tier knowledge and expertise, a client-centered approach to service excellence. And tech-led solutions to strategically manage today’s growing need for international talent.
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