How Long Does It Take for the E-2 Visa to Be Approved?

By Ergul Celiksoy, Immigration Attorney at CK Law Firm

The E-2 visa is an ideal visa type for investors who want to start a business or manage an existing one in the United States. However, for applicants, the processing time is a critical concern. The processing time for the E-2 visa varies depending on where the application is submitted, the completeness of the application file, and the workload of the processing authority. In this article, we will discuss in detail how the process works, the factors that affect the timeline, and what can be done to expedite applications:

• What Factors Influence E-2 Visa Processing Times?
• Key Factors Impacting E-2 Visa Processing Time
• Tips to Expedite the E-2 Visa Process

If you have additional questions about this topic, don’t forget that you can reach out to me through the comments section below, send me a message directly on LinkedIn, or contact me via the website of CK Law Firm, where I am a co-founder.

What Factors Influence E-2 Visa Processing Times?

The E-2 visa application process differs depending on whether the application is filed from within the United States or at a U.S. consulate abroad:

• Consular Applications: Applications submitted at a U.S. consulate abroad typically result in faster processing times. The timeline for consular applications depends on the appointment date, the consulate’s workload, and country-specific procedures. Most cases are processed within 2 to 8 weeks.
• USCIS Applications: If the application is filed from within the U.S., it is reviewed by USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). This process usually takes longer and can range from 2 to 6 months. However, with USCIS’s Premium Processing service, the application can be processed within 15 days for an additional fee.

Key Factors Impacting E-2 Visa Processing Time

Several factors influence how long it takes to process an E-2 visa application:

• Completeness of the Application File: A complete and accurate application file can significantly speed up the process. Missing or incorrect documents may result in requests for additional evidence, which can delay the process.
• Workload at the Consulate or USCIS: The processing time can be affected by the workload at the time of submission. Periods of high demand, such as holiday seasons, can extend the timeline.
• Appointment Wait Times: For consular applications, the wait time for an appointment can impact the overall processing time. In some cases, securing an appointment may take several weeks.
• Applicant’s Background: Factors such as the applicant’s travel history, U.S. entry and exit records, or inconsistencies in their documentation can also affect the review timeline.

Tips to Expedite the E-2 Visa Process

To ensure faster processing of an E-2 visa application, consider the following steps:

• Submit Complete and Accurate Documentation: From the application form to supporting documents, it is crucial to ensure all paperwork is complete and accurate. Provide detailed and clear information, particularly regarding the business plan, investment amount, and the legality of the business.
• Seek Professional Assistance: Working with an immigration attorney for complex applications like the E-2 visa ensures that your file is complete and well-prepared. At CK Law Firm, our experienced team is here to guide you through the process.
• Use Premium Processing: For applications filed within the U.S., USCIS offers a fast-track service that guarantees processing within 15 days for an additional fee.
• Monitor Consular Appointment Availability: For consular applications, regularly check appointment availability and apply for the earliest possible date.

Conclusion

While E-2 visa processing times vary based on several factors, proper planning and professional assistance can help minimize the timeline. At CK Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping you successfully complete your E-2 visa application. For more information about visa processes or to receive professional assistance, contact us through cklawfirm.org, email us at info@cklawfirm.org, or connect with us on LinkedIn.

Who is Attorney Ergül Çeliksoy?

Attorney Dr. Ergül Çeliksoy is a founding partner of CK Law Firm and also serves as an Assistant Professor of Law at the University of Nottingham. With extensive experience in U.S. immigration law, Dr. Çeliksoy completed a Master’s degree in international law and human rights law at the University of Nottingham in 2017, followed by a Ph.D. at the same university. His Ph.D., completed in 2022 at the University of Nottingham School of Law, marked a significant milestone in his academic career. Dr. Çeliksoy has published extensively in leading academic journals and is internationally recognized for his expertise in modern slavery, criminal justice, and criminal law. As a member of the California Bar, Dr. Çeliksoy offers exceptional service to his clients, particularly in U.S. immigration law cases. His expertise and experience in immigration law significantly contribute to CK Law Firm’s work in this area.

Dr. Çeliksoy provides comprehensive and strategic solutions to his clients in immigration law cases, helping secure their legal status in the U.S. His work on human rights and immigration processes, particularly in modern slavery and criminal law, effectively addresses the complex legal issues immigrants face. Dr. Çeliksoy reinforces CK Law Firm’s leadership in immigration law by offering reliable and effective legal consulting services to his clients, helping them build new lives in the United States.