By Ergul Celiksoy, Immigration Attorney at CK Law Firm

The E2 visa is a non-immigrant visa designed specifically for entrepreneurs who wish to invest in and establish a business in the United States. This visa is available to citizens of countries that have trade and investment treaties with the U.S. Turkish citizens are eligible to apply for the E2 visa under this agreement. The E2 visa covers not only the investor but also their spouse and unmarried children under 21. In this article, we will cover the following topics:

• What is the E2 Visa?
• What Are the Requirements for an E2 Visa?
• Required Documents for an E2 Visa Application
• The E2 Visa Application Process
• The E2 Visa Renewal Process

If you have additional questions about the topic, feel free to contact me via the comments section below this article, through LinkedIn messaging, or on the official CK Law Firm website!

What is the E2 Visa?

The E2 visa is a business visa offered to individuals who wish to establish a business or invest in an existing business in the United States. This visa aims to directly create jobs and contribute to the U.S. economy.

Scope: The visa holder is allowed to actively manage and operate a business based on their investment.
Duration: The E2 visa is typically issued for an initial period of 2 years, but it can be renewed as long as the investment continues.
Family Members: The spouse of the visa holder can obtain a work permit, and their children can pursue education in the U.S.

What Are the Requirements for an E2 Visa?

Certain criteria must be met to apply for an E2 visa:

1. Investor’s Nationality: The applicant must be a citizen of a country that has an E2 treaty with the U.S. Turkey is one of these countries.
2. Substantial Investment: The investment amount must be significant, depending on the nature of the business, and must be “at risk.” Generally, investments of $100,000 or more are considered sufficient.
3. Active Business Management: The investor must actively manage the business. Passive investments, such as real estate ownership, do not qualify.
4. Economic Contribution: The business must positively impact the U.S. economy. Creating jobs through the business is a key factor.
5. Profit Motive: The business must aim to generate profit, and the investment should demonstrate sustainability.

Required Documents for an E2 Visa Application

To apply for an E2 visa, the following documents must be prepared:

• Passport: A valid passport.
• DS-160 Form: The non-immigrant visa application form.
• Proof of Investment: Bank statements, contracts, and other financial records.
• Business Plan: A detailed business plan explaining the investment and the business’s economic benefits.
• Business Documents: Business registration, licenses, and incorporation papers.
• Consular Appointment Confirmation: Confirmation of the interview appointment at the U.S. consulate.

E2 Visa Application Process

The E2 visa application process includes the following steps:

Preparation of Business Plan and Investment:

A detailed business plan must be prepared, covering financial projections, expected profits, and contributions to the U.S. economy. The investment must be at risk and geared toward commercial activities.

Collection of Required Documents:

All necessary documents, including proof of investment, financial status, and business management records, must be gathered.

Consular Interview:

After submission, an interview is conducted at the U.S. consulate. During the interview, the sustainability of the investment and the applicant’s understanding of the business plan are evaluated.

Visa Approval and Entry Authorization:

Upon successful completion of the interview, the E2 visa is granted. The visa holder can then enter the U.S. and commence their business operations.

E2 Visa Renewal Process

The E2 visa is initially granted for 2 years. However, it can be renewed indefinitely as long as the investment remains active. During the renewal process, it is essential to prove that the business is still operational and continues to contribute to the U.S. economy.

Conclusion

The E2 visa application process is complex and requires meticulous attention to detail. Errors in the application can lead to delays or denial. CK Law Firm, with its experienced immigration attorneys, can simplify your E2 visa application process. For professional support, detailed information, and consultation services, reach out to us via 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.

By Asim Kilinc, Immigration Attorney at CK Law Firm

The E-2 visa offers opportunities for entrepreneurs who wish to invest in the United States. One of the most frequently asked questions by those considering applying for this visa is the required investment amount. While there is no fixed minimum investment amount stipulated for the E-2 visa, the investment must be substantial and appropriate to the nature and scale of the business. This article will discuss the details of the required investment, how applications are evaluated, and how to document the investment:

• Is There a Minimum Investment Amount for an E-2 Visa?
• How is the E-2 Visa Investment Evaluated?
• What Documents are Required to Prove the Investment Amount?

If you have additional questions about this topic, feel free to contact me through the comments section below, send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or reach out via the website of CK Law Firm, where I am a co-founder.

Is There a Minimum Investment Amount for an E-2 Visa?

There is no legally defined fixed minimum investment amount for the E-2 visa. Instead, the investment is expected to meet the following criteria:

• “Substantial” Amount: The investment amount must be substantial relative to the type and activity of the business. For small businesses, an investment of around $100,000 is generally considered sufficient, but larger enterprises may require more.
• Appropriate for the Type of Business: The investment should align with the business’s size, sector, and activities. For example, the required investment for opening a restaurant may differ significantly from that of a technology start-up.
• Risk of Loss: The investor must bear the risk of losing the invested capital. Passive investments, such as purchasing real estate, are typically not eligible.

How is the E-2 Visa Investment Evaluated?

In E-2 visa applications, the investment is assessed not just in terms of its amount but also its contribution to the business and the economic value it generates:

• Completed Investment: A significant portion of the investment should be made before the business becomes operational. Expenses such as purchasing equipment, leasing property, and marketing costs fall under this category.
• Business Sustainability: The investment must establish a capital structure that enables the business to sustain its operations. Insufficiently funded businesses may face negative evaluations during the application process.
• Contribution to the Local Economy: The business’s ability to create jobs and contribute to the U.S. economy is a crucial factor in evaluating the investment.

What Documents are Required to Prove the Investment Amount?

To support an E-2 visa application, detailed documentation proving the investment amount and expenditures must be provided. Some of the required documents include:

• Financial Records: Bank statements, wire transfer records, and loan documents.
• Invoices and Contracts: Invoices for expenditures, lease agreements, and purchase contracts.
• Business Plan: A detailed business plan outlining the short- and long-term goals, financial projections, and expected profitability of the business.
• Business Records: Official business formation documents and licenses.

Providing complete documentation is critical for a favorable evaluation of the application.

Conclusion

The investment amount for an E-2 visa must align with the size and sector of the business and ensure its sustainability. Proper documentation of the investment and a detailed business plan significantly increase the chances of approval. At CK Law Firm, we handle every detail of your E-2 visa process to ensure fast and successful outcomes. For professional assistance, detailed information, and consultancy services, you can contact us through cklawfirm.org, via email at info@cklawfirm.org, or on LinkedIn.

Who is Attorney Asım Kılınç?

Attorney Asım Kılınç is the co-founder of CK Law Firm and is recognized for his expertise in immigration law and U.S. asylum applications. Kılınç completed his Master’s degree at Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law and is a member of the Missouri Bar Association, with a focus on U.S. immigration law.

Attorney Kılınç’s extensive knowledge and experience in immigration law have significantly contributed to CK Law Firm’s success in this field. He has actively participated in the preparation of over 1,000 cases, demonstrating his expertise in this area. By providing comprehensive and professional legal support to his clients, he helps them adapt to their new lives in the U.S.

Attorney Kılınç is also well-versed in U.S. asylum applications. He meticulously guides his clients through the process and ensures they receive the best legal advice. He provides top-quality service to clients in matters of citizenship, Green Card, work permits, and other immigration processes, supporting them from start to finish on their journey to U.S. citizenship.

Attorney Asım Kılınç, who solidifies CK Law Firm’s leadership in immigration law and U.S. asylum applications, offers reliable and effective legal consultancy services to clients, assisting them in building a new life in the U.S.

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.

By Asim Kilinc, Immigration Attorney at CK Law Firm

The E-2 visa is a popular option for individuals planning to invest in the United States, but it does not directly grant citizenship. The E-2 visa offers temporary immigrant status that can be renewed indefinitely under certain conditions, but additional steps must be taken to achieve U.S. citizenship. So, how can E-2 visa holders pursue citizenship? Here are the details on this topic.

• The Relationship Between the E-2 Visa and Direct Citizenship
• Potential Paths from an E-2 Visa to Citizenship
• Challenges of Obtaining Citizenship with an E-2 Visa

If you have any other questions about this topic, please don’t hesitate to reach out via the comments section below, send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or contact me through the website of CK Law Firm, where I am a co-founder!

The Relationship Between the E-2 Visa and Direct Citizenship

The E-2 visa is a temporary visa category designed for individuals planning to invest in the United States and includes the following features:

• Temporary Status: The E-2 visa allows an investor to live and work in the U.S., but this right is limited in duration. Most E-2 visas are granted for 2 to 5 years and can be renewed as long as specific requirements are met.
• No Green Card (Permanent Resident Status): The E-2 visa does not directly provide a pathway to a Green Card or citizenship. However, E-2 visa holders may consider alternative methods to achieve U.S. citizenship.
• Non-Immigrant Intent: Since the E-2 visa does not serve immigrant purposes, it is only valid during the investment activities in the U.S. Therefore, it does not directly offer a transition to permanent residency (Green Card).

Potential Paths from an E-2 Visa to Citizenship

E-2 visa holders may pursue U.S. citizenship through several strategies. Here are some of the available pathways:

1. Transitioning to a Green Card

While the E-2 visa does not directly grant a Green Card, investors can take steps to start this process:

• EB-5 Investor Visa: Individuals who can make a larger investment may qualify for the EB-5 visa, one of the most direct routes to obtaining a Green Card. The EB-5 visa typically requires an investment of $800,000 to $1,050,000.
• Marriage or Family Sponsorship: Marrying a U.S. citizen or receiving sponsorship through a Green Card-holding family member is another route to citizenship.
• Employment-Based Green Cards: Investors may apply for an employment-based Green Card through sponsorship within the sector they work in with the E-2 visa.

2. Transitioning from a Green Card to Citizenship

Once an E-2 visa holder obtains a Green Card, they can begin the citizenship process. Green Card holders are generally eligible to apply for citizenship after legally residing in the U.S. for five years.

Challenges of Obtaining Citizenship with an E-2 Visa

The transition from an E-2 visa to U.S. citizenship comes with certain challenges:

• No Direct Path: The E-2 visa does not provide a direct transition to a Green Card or citizenship, requiring investors to explore alternative options.
• Sustainability of Investment: To continuously renew the E-2 visa, the business in which the investment is made must remain active, profitable, and sustainable. This requires adapting to changing market conditions and careful business planning.
• Complexity of Alternative Routes: Other pathways to transition from an E-2 visa to a Green Card or citizenship (e.g., family sponsorship or employment-based applications) involve long and detailed processes, which can be challenging for investors.

Conclusion

The journey from an E-2 visa to a Green Card and U.S. citizenship can be complex. At CK Law Firm, we are committed to simplifying this process and providing tailored solutions for investors’ needs.

For more information about the E-2 visa and U.S. citizenship, feel free to reach out to us.
To receive professional support, detailed information, and consultation services, contact us at cklawfirm.org, via email at info@cklawfirm.org, or through LinkedIn.

Who is Attorney Asım Kılınç?

Attorney Asım Kılınç is the co-founder of CK Law Firm and is recognized for his expertise in immigration law and U.S. asylum applications. Kılınç completed his Master’s degree at Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law and is a member of the Missouri Bar Association, with a focus on U.S. immigration law.

Attorney Kılınç’s extensive knowledge and experience in immigration law have significantly contributed to CK Law Firm’s success in this field. He has actively participated in the preparation of over 1,000 cases, demonstrating his expertise in this area. By providing comprehensive and professional legal support to his clients, he helps them adapt to their new lives in the U.S.

Attorney Kılınç is also well-versed in U.S. asylum applications. He meticulously guides his clients through the process and ensures they receive the best legal advice. He provides top-quality service to clients in matters of citizenship, Green Card, work permits, and other immigration processes, supporting them from start to finish on their journey to U.S. citizenship.

Attorney Asım Kılınç, who solidifies CK Law Firm’s leadership in immigration law and U.S. asylum applications, offers reliable and effective legal consultancy services to clients, assisting them in building a new life in the U.S.

By Ergul Celiksoy, Immigration Attorney at CK Law Firm

The E-2 visa is a special immigration status granted to foreign nationals who wish to invest in the United States under treaties of commerce and navigation between the U.S. and certain countries. However, eligibility for this visa depends not only on the size of the investment but also on the type of business and its contribution to the U.S. economy. So, which businesses qualify for the E-2 visa, and what should you consider during this process? In this article, we will cover the following points:

• General Characteristics of E-2 Visa Eligible Businesses
• Key Sectors for E-2 Visa Investments
• Importance of the Business Plan and the Application Process

If you have additional questions about this topic, feel free to leave a comment below, message me directly via LinkedIn, or contact me through the website of CK Law Firm, the immigration law firm I co-founded!

General Characteristics of E-2 Visa Eligible Businesses

Businesses eligible for the E-2 visa must meet specific criteria. The general characteristics of a qualifying business are:

1. Economic Contribution: The business must contribute directly or indirectly to the U.S. economy. This can include creating new jobs or supporting economic growth.
2. Non-Marginal Requirement: The investment must not merely provide the investor’s livelihood but also demonstrate a profitable business model.
3. Sufficient Investment Amount: The investment amount should be proportionate to the business’s size and the requirements of the sector. For example, a small café might require a modest budget, while technology startups may need significantly higher capital.
4. Operational Activity: The business must be active and operational. Passive investments, such as purchasing real estate alone, do not qualify for an E-2 visa.

Key Sectors for E-2 Visa Investments

Several sectors are popular among E-2 investors. Businesses in these industries tend to meet visa requirements and contribute significantly to the U.S. economy:

Restaurants and Food Services:

Restaurants, cafés, and other food-related businesses are popular choices among E-2 investors. Establishing a restaurant that caters to a demand for specific cuisines can lay a strong foundation for the visa application.

Retail Business:

Small-scale boutiques, grocery stores, and e-commerce platforms are suitable options due to their profitability and sustainability potential.

Technology and Software Startups:

Innovative technology startups are particularly advantageous for E-2 visas due to their high growth potential. A well-prepared business plan and sufficient capital are essential for this type of investment.

Service and Consultancy Firms:

Businesses offering consulting services, such as business management, education, or digital marketing, are also eligible for E-2 visa investments.

Hospitality and Tourism:

Hotels, motels, and other tourism-related businesses are commonly accepted for E-2 visas because of their job creation potential.

Importance of the Business Plan and the Application Process

The success of an E-2 visa application often depends on the strength of the business plan, in addition to the nature of the business. A detailed and convincing business plan is crucial for demonstrating the sustainability and profitability of the investment to immigration authorities.

Key Components of a Business Plan:

• The purpose and mission of the business
• Market analysis and industry research
• Business structure and organizational plan
• Projected revenues and expenses
• Employment opportunities created by the business

Another critical element is documenting the funding source. It is necessary to prove that the investment funds come from legal and personal resources.

Conclusion

The E-2 visa application process can be complex, requiring careful attention to detail. At CK Law Firm, our expert team ensures that investors navigate this process efficiently and successfully. From drafting business plans to compiling the necessary documentation, we provide professional support at every stage.

For professional assistance, detailed information, and consulting services, feel free to reach out to us via cklawfirm.org, info@cklawfirm.org, or 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.