How Long Does It Take to Get an E2 Visa?

The E2 investor visa is a remarkable pathway for entrepreneurs looking to establish or acquire a business in the United States. This visa is available to citizens of treaty countries, and provides a unique opportunity to live and work in the U.S. while managing a business. One of the key questions potential applicants ask is, “How long does it take to get an E2 visa?” In this blog, we’ll explore the timeline, eligibility criteria, and essential details about the E2 visa process. Let’s talk about the questions I will address in this article:

• What Is an E2 Visa, and Who Can Apply?
• How to Apply for an E2 Visa
• How Long Does the E2 Visa Process Take?
• Can the E2 Visa Lead to a Green Card?
• A New Beginning in America

If you are planning to get a E2 investor visa but don’t know how to apply, you can contact us on our website or in the comments section of our blog. You can also send me a message on LinkedIn for private communication.

What Is an E2 Visa, and Who Can Apply?

The E2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows individuals to enter the U.S. to manage an active business in which they have made a substantial investment. According to USCIS guidelines, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a Citizen of a Treaty Country: Applicants must hold citizenship in a country that has a trade and investment treaty with the United States. For a full list of eligible countries, you can visit the official USCIS website.
• Make a Substantial Investment: The investment must be significant enough to ensure the success and operation of the business. While no minimum amount is specified, it should be proportionate to the type and scale of the enterprise.
• Control and Operate the Business: Applicants must play an active role in managing the business. Passive investments, such as owning shares without involvement in daily operations, do not qualify.
• Contribute to the U.S. Economy: The business must generate jobs or economic benefits for U.S. residents, proving its sustainability and contribution.

According to USCIS, the above conditions must be met in full to apply for an E2 visa. When these conditions are met, the applicant has a very high chance of realizing his/her dreams by starting a business in America. Getting support from a professional immigration attorney is very important to ensure that the process goes more smoothly.

Detailed Eligibility Criteria as Defined by USCIS

The E2 visa eligibility criteria provided by USCIS emphasize several important details:

• Lawful Source of Funds: The investment capital must be acquired through legal means, and applicants must demonstrate clear documentation of the funds’ origins.
• Real and Active Business: The enterprise must be actively operating or close to commencing operations. Investments in speculative or idle enterprises do not meet the requirements.
• Risk of Investment: The applicant’s capital must be at risk in the business. This means the investment is irrevocable and subject to potential loss.

How to Apply for an E2 Visa

There are two main pathways for applying for an E2 visa:

1. Through a U.S. Consulate or Embassy:
   If you are outside the U.S., you can apply at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. Processing times vary but typically range from 2-3 months.
2. Through USCIS for a Change of Status:
   For those already in the U.S. on a different visa, applying for a change of status through USCIS is an option. However, this process often takes longer, around 4-6 months, depending on case loads and the completeness of the application.

How Long Does the E2 Visa Process Take?

The timeline for an E2 visa varies depending on the method of application:

• Embassy or Consulate Applications: Average processing time is 2-3 months.
• Change of Status Applications: USCIS processing can take 4-6 months or longer, depending on the volume of applications.

To avoid delays, ensure that your application is complete, well-documented, and adheres to USCIS guidelines.

Can the E2 Visa Lead to a Green Card?

While the E2 visa does not directly lead to a Green Card, it can serve as a stepping stone for permanent residency through other pathways, such as the EB-5 investor visa. This option requires a more substantial investment but provides a direct route to permanent residency.

A New Beginning in America

The E2 investor visa is an opportunity to fulfill your dreams by starting a business in America. However, the process can be complicated. Details such as E2 visa requirements, application period and business plan should be carefully studied. With the support of a professional consultancy, you can complete this process more easily and quickly.

If you need more information about the E2 visa duration or application process, you can contact us through our CK Law Firm Official Website or you can get support from me on my LinkedIn account for detailed guidance. Starting a business in America with an E2 investor visa is no longer a dream!