E-2 Treaty Investor visa
An E-2 treaty investor visa is a non-immigrant visa reserved for foreign entrepreneurs of countries that have a Treaty of Trade and Commerce with the United States. E-2 investor visas allows foreign investors to enter and work inside of the United States based on a “substantial investment” in a bona fide enterprise.
General
Information
An E-2 treaty investor visa is a non-immigrant visa reserved for foreign entrepreneurs of countries that have a Treaty of Trade and Commerce with the United States. E-2 investor visas allows foreign investors to enter and work inside of the United States based on a “substantial investment” in a bona fide enterprise.
Substantial Investment
There is no specific figure that outlines a “substantial investment”. By common practice, the investment must be sufficient to ensure the successful operation of the enterprise. While some investments of less than $100,000 are okay, it’s safe to say that the investment capital and reserves should total no less than $100,000 -$150,000.
At Risk
The investor must have control of the funds and place them at risk. At risk means that the investor is irrevocably committed.
Principal
investor
or manager
The investor must be coming to the U.S. to develop and direct the enterprise. If the applicant is not the principal investor, he or she must be employed in a supervisory, executive, or highly specialized skill capacity. The government will not grant you an E-2 visa if they don’t believe you play an important role in the enterprise. You must show that you will be playing an important role in the enterprise, by developing and directing the investment enterprise. You should be able to demonstrate ownership of at least 50% of the enterprise, or possess operational control through a managerial position or other corporate devices.
Source
of Funds
The invested funds must belong to the investor. Personal loans and gifts from relatives or friends can be considered part of the investment in some instances.