What are the E2 Investor Visa Requirements?

By Asım Kılınç, Immigration Lawyer, CK Law Firm

When you consider the question of what the US E2 visa is, the E2 investor visa is a preferred visa type for establishing a business in the United States or purchasing an existing one. This means entrepreneurs can obtain permission to live and work in the United States for a specific period of time. In this article, I will cover the E2 investor visa requirements and the following topics:

• What is an E2 Visa?
• How to Get an E2 Investor Visa?
• Requirements for the E2 Investor Visa
• How Long Does the E2 Visa Last?

I'll also address the frequently asked questions below. However, as with any visa application, you can contact us through CK Law Firm's official website for assistance with your E2 visa application. You can also reach me anytime through my LinkedIn account.

What is an E2 Visa?

The E2 investor visa is a non-immigrant visa available to citizens of countries that have an investment agreement with the US. Turkey is a party to this agreement. Turkish citizens can also apply for this visa, which allows them to establish or manage a business by making a significant capital investment in the US.

While an E2 visa doesn't automatically grant citizenship, a long-term investment plan can open the door to permanent residency in the US. In other words, an E2 visa doesn't automatically grant you a Green Card. However, the US E2 investor visa offers applicants several advantages. These include:

• Opportunity to establish or expand your business.
• The right to work and live for family members.
• A renewable visa opportunity as long as your business activities continue.

How to Get an E2 Investor Visa?

When prepared correctly, an E2 visa application can be approved without any problems. The basic steps to follow during the application process and the E2 investor visa requirements are as follows:

• Prepare an Investment Plan: Create a business plan that details your business's objectives, investment amount, and economic contribution. Include the business's scope, market analysis, and employment generation potential.
• Make the Investment: Your investment must be active. A large portion must already be made or committed before applying.
• Complete Your Application: Apply through the US Embassy or Consulate in Turkey.
• Attend an Interview: Meet with US consular officials. Be ready to explain your business plan and investment in detail.

Required Documents

• Valid Passport (at least 6 months validity)
• Form DS-160 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form)
• Form DS-156E (specific to E2 visa)
• Business Plan
• Investment Documents (bank statements, contracts, etc.)
• Company Documents (licenses, incorporation documents)
• Resume and References

E2 Visa Approval Time:

• Consulate Applications: A few weeks to a few months.
• Change of Status in the US: Approximately 4–6 months.

Requirements for the E2 Investor Visa

Applicants who meet the following criteria can obtain a successful visa and continue their professional life in the United States:

• Significant Investment: Generally $100,000 or more is expected.
• Active Investment: Must be in an actively operated, profit-oriented business (not passive investments like real estate).
• Source of Investment: Capital must be obtained legally.
• Control of the Business: Investor must own at least 50% and actively manage it.

How Long Does the E2 Visa Last?

The initial issuance period is generally two years, with renewals possible every two years as long as the business remains active. For some countries, the duration can be up to five years. The duration depends on the sustainability of the investment and its contribution to the US economy.

As long as your investment is successful and contributes to the US economy, you can continue to work and live in the US. Support during the visa process is highly recommended to ensure smooth and quick proceedings. You can contact us via our website or LinkedIn for further assistance and browse our Blogs page for more articles.