E-2 Visa Services
What is the E-2 Visa?
The E-2 Visa, known as the Treaty Investor Visa, allows individuals from treaty nations to come to the United States temporarily to manage and direct the operations of the business in which they have made a substantial investment. This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners looking to grow their operations in the United States.
Who is Eligible for the E-2 Visa?
To qualify for an E-2 visa, applicants must be nationals of a country that maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. They must have made, or be in the process of making, a substantial investment in a legitimate business within the United States.
At Patel Law Group (PLG), we recommend clients invest a minimum of $100,000 to reduce the risk of denial by USCIS for not being substantial. However, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Department of State (DOS) use a proportionality test that compares the investment to the total business cost, so a $100,000 investment might not be substantial for a business that is valued at $1 million. Generally, the lower the business cost, the higher the percentage of investment required, with businesses costing $500,000 or more typically needing a 50% or less investment.
Additionally, the investor must be seeking to enter the U.S. solely to develop and direct the enterprise, demonstrated by owning at least 50% of the enterprise or possessing operation control through a managerial position or other corporate device.
Benefits of the E-2 Visa
The E-2 Visa offers several benefits, including an initial stay of up to two years with unlimited extensions in increments of up to two years each, as long as the investment enterprise is operational. E-2 visa holders can bring their spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age. Spouses can apply for work authorization, and children can attend school. E-2 visa holders can also travel in and out of the United States without restrictions. However, E-2 visa holders must maintain the intention to depart the U.S. once their status expires.
Our E-2 Visa Services
At Patel Law Group, we provide comprehensive E-2 visa services to help you navigate the complexities of the application process. Our services include:
1. Initial Consultation: We assess your eligibility and provide personalized advice on meeting the E-2 Visa requirements and navigating the application process.
2. Business Plan Review: Our team assists in reviewing business plans to ensure compliance with the stringent requirements of USCIS and DOS.
3. Application Preparation and Filing: We handle all aspects of the application process, including preparing and submitting Form I-129, documentation related to the business, source of funds for the investment, and the investor’s role in the operations of the business, demonstrating their managerial or executive capacity.
4. Consular Interview Preparation: We provide comprehensive guidance and preparation for the consular interview, including mock interview sessions and strategies on presenting your case effectively.
5. Ongoing Support: After your visa is granted, we offer continuous support to help you maintain your status and address any immigration-related challenges that may arise.
At Patel Law Group, our attorneys are qualified specialists in U.S. immigration law and have helped many clients acquire their E-2 visas. Our approach is centered around each client’s unique needs and goals, ensuring personalized attention every step of the way. From initial consultations to post-approval guidance, we are committed to ensuring success in achieving your immigration goals.