Who Can Apply for an E2 Visa? – Application Process Guide
Who Can Apply for an E2 Visa? – Application Process Guide
FRONT FEBRUARY 24, 2025 / IN BLOGS, E2 INVESTOR VISA, TR
Ergül Çeliksoy, Immigration Lawyer, CK Law Firm
The E2 visa is a visa for investors who want to establish a business in the United States or invest in an existing one. With this visa, investors and entrepreneurs can move their careers and lives to the United States by meeting certain requirements. Turkish citizens are eligible to apply for the US E2 investor visa due to the trade agreement between the US and Turkey.
Topics Covered in Our E2 Visa Application Guide
- E2 Visa Overview
- Who can apply for the US E2 Visa?
- How Does the E2 Visa Application Process Work?
- What Rights Do You Gain in the USA with an E2 Visa?
- Is it possible to switch from an E2 Visa to a Green Card?
- Frequently Asked Questions
These topics conclude our review of the E2 visa application guide. However, if you have any questions about the E2 visa beyond these topics, you can always ask us on our website. You can also reach me privately through my LinkedIn account.
E2 Visa Overview
The E2 visa isn't an immigration status. However, an E2 visa allows you to live and start a business within the United States. In other words, you can launch your dream business in the US with an E2 investor visa. This visa allows you to invest in the US market, manage your business, and embark on a new life with your family.
Imagine opening your own restaurant or purchasing an existing business and moving your family to America. Doesn't that sound exciting? To make this excitement a reality, you need to be very careful with the E2 visa application process. First, let's determine if you're eligible for this visa and fulfill your dream.
Who Can Apply for the US E2 Visa?
You might be wondering, "Who can apply for the US E2 visa?" To answer this question, we first need to determine your nationality. This is because the US E2 visa isn't available to citizens of every country. To learn which nationalities are eligible to apply, you can review our article, "Can You Obtain Citizenship with an E2 Visa?"
So, is citizenship alone sufficient? Of course not. To apply for an E2 visa, you must present a business model capable of generating income and employment with a certain amount of capital. For example, investments are possible in many areas, from a local cafe to a startup company. As long as your investment is based on an active and at risk business plan.
How Does the E2 Visa Application Process Work?
- Preparation and Planning
- Which sector will you pursue?
- How much capital do you plan to invest?
- Have you created your business plan?
- Creating a roadmap by answering these questions is a critical first step in the E2 visa application process.
- Starting or Buying a Business
- You can establish a new company or take over an existing one. (If you're still undecided, you can also review our article, "A Guide to Choosing a Business for the US E2 Visa for Turks.")
- What matters is that your invested capital is truly active. In other words, "passive" investments like homes and land are not eligible for this visa.
- Preparation of Application Documents
- You must have all necessary documents, including financial documents, passport, business plan, company documents, and more, ready. Click here for detailed information about these documents.
- E2 Visa Lawyer Consultancy during the Application Process helps you continue your work faster and more accurately.
- Consular Process
- Once you have your documents completed, you apply to the US Consulate or USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services).
- You make an appointment for the E2 Investor Visa Interview. During the interview, you specifically explain the reality of your investment and its contribution to the US.
- Result and Visa Approval
- Once your E2 visa application is approved, you can take an important step towards your new life.
- However, if you receive a rejection, you can reapply by correcting your deficiencies.
What Rights Do You Gain in the USA with an E2 Visa?
- Freedom to Manage Your Business: You can actively manage your investment business and take advantage of all commercial opportunities within the United States.
- Your Family Is With You: Your spouse can get a work permit, and your unmarried children under 21 can study in the U.S. You can experience a new culture with your family.
- Continuous Entry and Exit: As long as your visa is valid, you can enter and exit the US whenever you want. This makes it easier for you to both manage your business in Turkey and your US business.
Of course, to protect these rights, you need to demonstrate the continuity of your investment and the active operation of your business. Remember, it's always important to document your contribution to the US economy.
Is it possible to switch from an E2 Visa to a Green Card?
The E2 visa is a non-immigrant visa status. Therefore, an E2 visa does not automatically grant a green card. So, isn't there still a way to obtain permanent residency? Of course there is:
- EB-5 Investor Program: If you can increase your capital to a larger investment (typically $800,000 or $1,050,000 depending on the location) and meet certain employment requirements, you can apply for a Green Card through EB-5.
- Other Visa Categories: Company sponsorship (EB-2, EB-3, etc.) or family-based applications may also offer long-term “permanent residence” authorization.
Each option involves different requirements and processes. Therefore, seeking professional support to develop a detailed roadmap will greatly ease your work.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How Long Does It Take to Grant an E2 Visa?
This period is generally five years, according to agreements in countries like Türkiye. You can apply for an extension and renew it repeatedly as your investment continues. - What Can My Family Do When They Come With Me?
Your spouse can obtain a work permit while under E2 investor visa status, and your children can attend public schools for free. - Can I Try Again If My Application Is Rejected?
Of course! You can complete your requirements and reapply. To increase your success rate, it's generally recommended to seek professional support during the initial application process. - Can I Work Another Job With an E2 Visa?
The E2 visa offers limited work rights for businesses you own or invest in. Your spouse, however, has the advantage of being able to work in any job they choose. - How Much Capital Do I Need?
While there's no specific minimum, your investment is expected to be substantial. Generally, investments of $100,000 or more are preferred.
The E2 visa offers an exciting opportunity that opens the door to your dreams in the US. This is what we'll cover in our E2 visa application guide. You can easily contact us and ask any questions you may have by visiting our Contact page. You can also message me privately through my LinkedIn account if you'd like to connect.