E2 Visa Requirements for Pakistani Investors: How to Obtain a US Visa?
E2 Visa Requirements for Pakistani: Learn about the eligibility, requirements, and benefits of the E-2 visa for Pakistani nationals.
Written by
Facundo Bermúdez
Published on
17 Sep 2023
Table of Contents:
For Pakistani entrepreneurs with dreams of establishing a business presence in the United States, the E-2 Visa presents an invaluable opportunity. In this comprehensive guide, we embark on a journey through the intricacies of the E-2 Visa process, tailored specifically for E2 visa for Pakistani. From understanding the core E2 visa requirements for Pakistani to surmounting common challenges, we aim to equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate this endeavor successfully.
So, whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or an aspiring investor, this guide is your compass in the pursuit of the American Dream through the E-2 Visa program. Let’s embark on this journey together, turning aspirations into tangible achievements.
What is the E2 Treaty Investor Visa?
The E2 Treaty Investor Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows citizens of certain treaty countries, including Pakistan, to live and work in the United States by making a significant investment in a bona fide enterprise. This investor visa is particularly appealing for entrepreneurs and investors who wish to start a brand-new business or purchase an existing business in the U.S. The E2 visa not only facilitates business investment but also provides the opportunity to manage and develop the enterprise actively.
How Can a Pakistani Investor Obtain a US Visa?
In 1961, Pakistan and the United States entered into treaties that opened up a unique opportunity for Pakistani nationals – eligibility for the E-2 non-immigrant visa. This stands in contrast to Indian nationals who do not qualify for the E-2 visa, limiting them to options like the L-1 or EB-5 visas.
Individuals currently in lawful nonimmigrant status can apply for E-2 classification or seek changes in their status.
E2 Visa Eligibility
To qualify for an E2 visa, applicants must meet specific criteria related to nationality, investment, and business operations. Here’s a closer look at these requirements:
Nationality
The principal investor must be a national of a treaty country that has a commerce and navigation treaty with the United States. For Pakistani investors, this requirement is straightforward, as Pakistan is one of the treaty countries. Proof of nationality is typically demonstrated through a valid passport from the home country.
Investment Requirements
The investment must be substantial, meaning it should be sufficient to ensure the successful operation of the enterprise. While there is no fixed minimum amount, a general guideline is an investment of at least $100,000. The investment funds must be at risk, indicating a genuine commitment to the business’s success. This means the funds should be irrevocably committed to the business and subject to partial or total loss if the business fails.
E-2 Visa Requirements For Pakistanis: Substantial Investment
The E-2 Visa is a fantastic opportunity for Pakistani investors looking to establish a presence in the United States. Here are the key requirements:
- Investment Status: You must either be an investor in the process of investing in the USA or have invested in the past.
- Skillset and Management Capability: You should possess the knowledge and skillset required to build and effectively manage the business.
- Substantial Investment: While there is no fixed minimum, the investment is generally substantial. We recommend investing a minimum of $100,000.
- Business Viability: The business must demonstrate the potential for significant results, including profitability and the ability to hire employees. Additionally, it must adhere to all applicable legal requirements to ensure compliance and qualification for the E-2 visa.
- Intent to Return: You are obligated to return to Pakistan once the visa expires, but it can be renewed as long as needed.
Common Challenges Faced by Pakistani Citizens during the E2 Visa Application Process: Common Challenges
For Pakistani citizens, the E2 Visa application process can present certain hurdles. Being aware of these challenges is essential for effective preparation:
- Language Barrier: Fluent English is crucial for accurately expressing qualifications and business intentions. English language courses or professional assistance can be invaluable.
- Documentation Requirements: Gathering and organizing the extensive paperwork can be overwhelming. Thoroughly reviewing requirements and ensuring all documents are complete is vital.
- Business Viability Assessment: A well-structured business plan with a realistic financial forecast is essential. Insufficient plans may lead to delays or denials.
- Interview Preparation: Mock interviews and practice can build confidence in answering questions about your business plans and investment.
- Limited Investment Funds: Meeting the substantial investment requirement can be challenging. Exploring funding options or consulting financial advisors is advisable.
E2 Visa Process Explained
To apply for an E2 visa, you need to follow these steps:
- Submit Form DS-160: The first step is to complete and submit the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, also known as Form DS-160. This form collects your personal, travel, and investment information.
- Provide Supporting Documentation: Along with Form DS-160, you must submit all necessary supporting documents. These documents should prove that you meet the E2 visa requirements. Typically, this includes evidence of your substantial investment in a U.S. business, proof of ownership or controlling interest in the enterprise, and documentation showing the lawful source of your investment funds. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their eligibility for treaty investor status through the required documentation.
- Application Review: After submitting your application and supporting documents, the U.S. Consulate or Embassy will review your case. This step involves a thorough examination of all submitted materials to ensure you meet the E2 visa criteria.
- Schedule a Visa Interview: Once your application is reviewed and accepted, you will need to schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the U.S. Consulate or Embassy.
- Attend the Visa Interview: During the interview, a consular officer will ask you various questions about your investment, the source of your funds, and your plans for the business in the U.S. Be prepared to discuss these topics in detail and provide additional documentation if requested.
If your interview goes well and the consular officer is satisfied with your application, you will be granted an E2 visa, allowing you to live and work in the U.S. to develop and direct your investment enterprise.
Consular Processing
For those applying from outside the United States, the E2 visa application must be processed through a U.S. consulate in the applicant’s home country. This process involves submitting the necessary documentation and attending an interview at the consulate. Processing times can vary based on the consulate’s workload and specific country conditions.
Premium Processing
Applicants seeking faster processing can opt for premium processing, which expedites the review of their application to within 30 calendar days. This service is available for an additional fee and can be particularly beneficial for those needing a quicker decision to proceed with their business plans.
By understanding and meeting these eligibility requirements, Pakistani investors can take significant steps toward securing an E2 visa and realizing their business ambitions in the United States.
How can we help you?
At Visa Franchise, we are committed to guiding you through the entire process, addressing every challenge mentioned above, to ensure your success. With a proven track record of assisting more than 1,200 immigrants from over 65 countries, we specialize in helping professionals and entrepreneurs secure business opportunities for U.S. legal residency. What sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to prioritizing client needs and offering transparent, expert advice, making your American Dream a reality.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Franchise
In the world of E-2 Visa investments, not all franchises are created equal. We’ve seen clients receive poor advice that led to unsatisfactory immigration plans and, in some cases, businesses without long-term profitability. Transparency is our cornerstone. From the moment you reach out to us, we’re dedicated to understanding your preferences and guiding you toward a portfolio of robust franchises aligned with your interests. We’re not just focused on helping you get to the U.S., but on ensuring your business thrives there.
E-2 Visa Issuances in Pakistan: Treaty Investor Status
From 2019 to 2023, Pakistan has shown impressive growth in E-2 Visa issuances. In 2019, there were 84 issuances, followed by 76 in 2020. However, the numbers rebounded in 2021 with 102 issuances, and in 2022, it reached 114. This represents a notable 35.71% increase over four years. Recent news indicates an improvement in E-2 visa issuances for Pakistani investors, with 187 visas issued in 2023.
E2 Visa Benefits
Obtaining an E-2 Visa brings several benefits for Pakistanis, including:
- Business Ownership: You have the opportunity to own and operate a business in the U.S.
- The business must demonstrate its present or future capacity to generate sufficient income to qualify for the E-2 visa.
- Flexibility: You can renew the visa indefinitely, allowing for long-term business management.
- Dependent spouses of E-2 visa holders are automatically granted work authorization without needing to apply for an employment authorization document.
- Dependents’ Access: Your immediate family can accompany you to the U.S. under the E-2 dependent visa.
- Potential Path to Permanent Residency: While the E-2 is a non-immigrant visa, it can be a stepping stone towards obtaining a green card through other avenues.
Conclusion
For Pakistani investors, the E-2 Visa offers a unique pathway to establishing and managing a business in the United States. Despite potential challenges, with the right guidance and preparation, this opportunity can become a reality. At Visa Franchise, we’re committed to helping you navigate this journey, ensuring not only a successful visa application but a thriving business venture in the U.S.
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