An E-2 visa is a type of visa that allows a foreign national to enter and work in the United States when they have made a significant investment in a U.S. business. This visa is designed to encourage investment in the American economy and create jobs for American workers.
The E-2 visa is available to individuals from countries that have a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. To qualify for an E-2 visa, the foreign national must show that they have invested or are in the process of investing a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business. The investment must be enough to ensure the successful operation of the business, and the individual must have control of the funds and the ability to direct their use in the business.
Once the investment has been made, the individual can apply for an E-2 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. The visa is typically granted for a five-year period and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the individual continues to meet the requirements for the visa and the business remains operational.
One of the main benefits of an E-2 visa is that it allows the individual to live and work in the United States for as long as their visa remains valid. This can provide them with the opportunity to oversee their investment and ensure its success. Additionally, spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 of E-2 visa holders are eligible for E-2 visas as well, allowing them to live and study in the United States while the primary visa holder works.
However, it's important to note that an E-2 visa is not a path to permanent residency or citizenship in the United States. It is a nonimmigrant visa, which means it is only valid for a temporary period of time. Additionally, the individual is only allowed to work in the business for which they obtained the visa, and they are not permitted to work for any other employer.
In conclusion, an E-2 visa is a valuable option for foreign nationals who are looking to invest in a U.S. business and work in the United States. It allows them to live and work in the country for an extended period of time and provides their family with the opportunity to join them. However, it's important to understand the limitations of the visa and to carefully plan the investment to ensure that it meets the requirements for obtaining an E-2 visa.
This post is not legal advice. Please contact our office and schedule an appointment if you have questions or an interest in applying for an E-2 visa at (202) 499-2403 or 1 (833) CALL JKW (225-5559).
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