USA E2 – Employment Second Preference
The USA E2 Employment Second Preference Visa is a non-immigrant visa that enables foreign entrepreneurs to enter, manage, and operate their businesses in the United States. Specifically designed for business owners, senior executives, and highly skilled professionals, this visa offers opportunities to establish or invest in a U.S.-based enterprise.
The E2 Visa Program is available only to citizens of countries that have signed bilateral investment treaties with the U.S. Applicants must demonstrate a significant investment in an American business and be actively involved in its management and daily operations.
1 – Investment Requirements for the USA E2 Entrepreneur Visa
To qualify for the E2 Business Visa:
- The investor must be a citizen of a treaty country (e.g., Pakistan is eligible).
- There is no fixed minimum investment, but generally, $100,000–$200,000 is recommended to ensure business success.
- The investor must own at least 51% of the business or hold a senior management role with decision-making authority.
- The investment must be “at risk” — committed to the business rather than held in a bank account.
- The business must be active and create jobs for U.S. workers.
2 – Benefits of the USA E2 Investor Visa
- Business Operations: Establish, manage, and expand a U.S. business.
- Spousal Work Authorization: Spouses can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
- Education for Children: Dependents under 21 can study in U.S. schools and universities.
- Flexible Stay: Initial stay up to two years, renewable indefinitely as long as requirements are met.
- No Green Card Requirement: Suitable for those seeking temporary business opportunities without permanent residency obligations.
3 – Business Eligibility Under the E2 Program
The investment must:
- Be in an active commercial enterprise (not passive investments like real estate).
- Generate sufficient income to support the investor and their family.
- Contribute to the U.S. economy through job creation or essential services.
- Require the investor’s active participation in daily management.
4 – Visa Validity & Renewal
- Initial validity: up to two years.
- Unlimited two-year renewals if conditions are met.
- No maximum renewal limit.
5 – Visa Validity & Renewal
- Spouse: Eligible for a work permit.
- Children: Can study in the U.S. under dependent status (under age 21).
6 – Key Differences – E2 vs. EB-5 Investor Visa
| Feature | E2 Visa | EB-5 Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Investment Amount | $100,000–$200,000 recommended | $800,000 (TEA) or $1.05M (non-TEA) |
| Business Type | Active enterprise | Regional center or direct investment |
| Duration | 2 years (renewable) | Conditional PR → full PR after 2 years |
| Spousal Work Authorization | Yes | Not applicable (PR grants work rights) |
| Path to Citizenship | No direct path | Eligible after 5 years of PR |
7 -Suitable Business Sectors for E2
8 – Latest Updates
The U.S. Government has tightened E2 visa regulations to:
Why Choose Stem Immigration Services for Your USA E2 Investor Visa?
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