If you are a founder eyeing the US market, the E2 Investor Visa is your ticket in. The market is one of the largest, accounting for 32% of global consumer spending. Although this visa won’t give you permanent residency, you will still have a solid foothold.
In fact, SaaS experts and startup leaders are discussing the E2 extensively. Everyone is chasing scale, funding, and that sweet spot in the US innovation scene. Additionally, it makes sense, as the E2 allows you to build, operate, and grow without the hassle of obtaining a green card.
However, it is definitely not a walk in the park. You must follow the latest immigration rules and complete the necessary paperwork, which can be extensive. Hence, getting a good immigration lawyer is a smart move.
Anyway, this visa has gained significant traction, especially among global entrepreneurs who want to expand their operations without committing fully. Therefore, read on to get a better idea of how to make the most of the E2 investor visa.
What Is the E2 Investor Visa?
The E2 Investor Visa is a non-immigrant visa. It allows you (a non-US-based entrepreneur) to live and work in the US by investing in a bona fide enterprise.
However, the E2 is a bit different. It is not based on fixed capital thresholds or point systems. Instead, it mainly focuses on the business’s viability and the substantial nature of the investment.
Generally, this visa is valid for up to 2 years. However, it is renewable indefinitely (renewed countless times) to maintain your legal status in the US. Also, the E2 Investor Visa does not lead to permanent residency in the US. However, you can switch to an eligible US visa to remain in the country permanently.
There are many routes to it. These include:
- Family-based
- EB1A
- EB2 NIW
- EB5, and more.
Hence, it feels like a maze. Each one has its own set of rules, forms, and timelines. So, it is not plug-and-play. Instead, you will need a plan as well as a lawyer. This is because US immigration law is layered, complicated, and definitely not a DIY thing.
Why the E2 Visa Appeals to Global Entrepreneurs?
Primarily, E2 has that pull and that flexibility. You don’t have to live in the US full-time. You will be able to run things from abroad. That’s huge for global founders.
When it comes to renewals, as long as the business stays alive and growing, you are good to go. Hence, there is no fixed expiry. In fact, people from the tech sector love it. For instance, SaaS, fintech, and digital services seldom get access to US investors, infrastructure, and customers.
Additionally, you won’t have to deal with green card drama. All you have to do is just set up in NYC, Silicon Valley, or wherever the next big hub is. In this case, you must meet specific criteria. Hence, if you play things right, it might be the game-changer for you.
Eligibility Criteria for E2 Investor Visa
Foreign entrepreneurs must fulfil the eligibility requirements to obtain an E2 Investor Visa. To be eligible for this visa, entrepreneurs must:
- Come from a country that maintains commerce and navigation treaties with the US.
- Must invest a generous amount of capital in a US business. While a specific investment amount is not specified, it should be sufficient to demonstrate your financial commitment. It should also be a significant portion of the total business cost.
- Invest in a real, for-profit, active enterprise.
- Intend to direct and develop the enterprise.
- Invest in a business that must be capable of generating more than a minimal living for you and your family. It should also have the potential to create jobs.
Growing Startups Through the E2 Investor Visa
The E2 Investor Visa enables entrepreneurs to expand their businesses in various ways, including:
1. Access to the US Market
As the largest global consumer with over 300 million people and with a business-friendly environment, the US remains a top destination for scaling business operations. Through the E2 Investor Visa, entrepreneurs can establish regional offices, subsidiaries, or ventures in green energy or health technology sectors.
2. Building Credibility and Investor Confidence
Having a US-based business presence through the E2 Investor Visa enhances your business’s international credibility. It also demonstrates your long-term commitment and operational seriousness to potential investors and business partners.
3. Freedom of Reinvesting and Innovating
Unlike the US B1 Business Visa, which imposes significant operational limitations, the E2 Visa encourages reinvestment and innovation. This allows entrepreneurs to adjust their business plans, introduce new products, or expand into new markets, provided the enterprise meets the relevant visa requirements.
Application Steps for E2 Investor Visa
To apply for an E2 Visa, entrepreneurs can adhere to the following steps:
- Establish your company, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN), and open a bank account.
- Create a comprehensive business plan including financial projections, a marketing strategy, and a detailed funding allocation.
- Provide your supporting documents.
- Complete Form DS-160 with the correct information.
- Pay the required application fee online.
- Schedule an appointment for your E2 Visa interview to submit your biometric information (digital copies of your fingerprints and photograph).
- Attend the appointment with all the relevant documents.
- Get your E2 Visa upon a successful application. If your application went through consular processing, you will receive an E2 Visa stamped in your passport. If you are applying for a change of status, you’ll receive an approval notice.
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Start Applying for the E2 Now!
The tech industry is booming. However, the borders are not. The E2 Visa remains a viable option for founders seeking a US base without uprooting their entire life. The best thing about the E2 is that it’s flexible, allowing you to build, expand, and partner up.
Meanwhile, there is some paperwork, eligibility rules, and documents you have to go through. Hence, avoid mistakes in those cases. Moreover, you will also be able to apply on your own. However, if you miss even a small detail, you could damage your chances of getting the E2.
Therefore, if you wish to apply for an E-2 visa, we recommend consulting with a lawyer now. This is because they are familiar with the process and understand what is essential. In fact, a solid E2 application increases your chances.
