The E2 visa requires a substantial investment in a US business from citizens of countries with relevant treaties. Although there is no fixed minimum, guidelines state it should be over $100,000. Typically investments range from $150,000 to $200,000 or more depending on factors like location, industry, job creation etc. The investment must be sufficient to ensure the business’s successful operation. The E2 visa holder must own at least 50% of the business and be involved in managing it. The visa is granted for up to 5 years and can be continually renewed given the business remains operational.
E2 visa investment amount guidelines
While there is no explicit minimum investment amount spelled out for the E2 visa, USCIS uses $100,000 as a guideline threshold. In practice, investors typically invest between $150,000 to $200,000 or more in order to better demonstrate the investment is substantial and that the funds are sufficient to ensure successful operations. The appropriate amount varies based on factors like:
– Location – More investment needed for expensive areas
– Industry – Capital intensive businesses require more funds
– Business plan – Funds should align with operational costs
– Job creation – More employees could justify larger investment
So a retail shop in a small town may only need $150,000, while a manufacturing facility in New York City might require $500,000 or more. Working with an experienced immigration lawyer is important to determine and document the adequate investment for each case.
E2 visa investment ownership requirements
In addition to the monetary requirements, the E2 investor must own at least 50% of the US business. This entails:
– Purchasing an existing business and owning 51%+ equity
– Investing in and creating a new entity where the investor has 51%+ ownership
– Joint ventures with 50-50 ownership between investor and US partner
There can be multiple E2 investors as long as each holds at least 50% equity individually or jointly. The E2 investor(s) must also be responsible for directing and developing the US business through day-to-day oversight or by appointing directors/executives.
Maintaining E2 status with ongoing investment & management
After meeting the initial investment and ownership requirements, additional requirements apply to maintaining E2 visa status:
– The business must remain operational and the E2 visa holder should be involved in the day-to-day operations or high-level strategic management.
– If the business fails or closes, the E2 visa holder has a grace period of 30-60 days to wrap up affairs in the US before losing status.
– Investment can be withdrawn and reinvested, but sufficient funds must remain to ensure ongoing operations.
– The visa must be continually renewed, which requires demonstrating maintenance of investment, ownership stake and involvement in the business when applying.
The E2 visa requires a substantial investment of at least $100,000 based on guidelines, although typical investments range from $150,000 to $200,000+. The investor must hold at least 50% equity in the US business and be directly involved in oversight and operations. Maintaining E2 status also requires keeping investment at risk and the business operational.