Back

E Investor Visa

E visas are not available to citizens of every country, but for those who qualify, it can be a very effective way of conducting international business. E visas are initially issued for two years and are effectively renewable without limit. Spouses and children under 21 may accompany the applicant. There are two types of E visas: E-1 (treaty trader) and E-2 (treaty investor).
 
For both types of E visas the following requirements must be met:
  • The country must be on the list of countries that have a treaty with the US enabling the national to use this visa.
  • At least 50% of the company must be owned by Nationals of Country X.
  • The applicant must possess the Nationality (not mere resident status) of the country.
  • The applicant must intend to depart upon expiration or termination of the E-1/2 visa.
    •  
    For the E-1 visa, the following must apply:
  • There must be an existing trade (goods, services, monies, advertising, tourism, technology, data processing, international banking, etc).
  • The trade must be substantial (the amount of trade must be sufficient to ensure a continuous flow of international trade items between the US and the treaty country).
  • The trade must be principally between the US and the treaty country.
  • The position must be supervisory/executive or essential to the successful/efficient operation of the enterprise.
    •  
    For the E-2 visa, the following must apply
  • The investment must be active (intended to generate profit).
  • The investor must be personally at risk.
  • The investment should create jobs for non-family members.
  • If the individual is the principal investor, he/she must solely direct and develop the enterprise.
  • If the individual is an employee, his/her duties must be supervisory/executive or essential to the successful/efficient operation of the enterprise.


    •