Treaty Investor (E-2)
United States
Last updated: December 29, 2025
2 years (renewable)
$315
3-6 months
Medium
About this Visa
The E-2 visa lets you move to the United States to start or buy a business. You must be from a country that has a trade agreement with the U.S. You invest your own money into a U.S. business. In return, you get a visa to live and work there. Your business must be a real company that makes money—not just a side project. This visa is for people with serious investment plans, not hobby businesses.
Key Benefits
- Work for your own business with no restrictions
- Bring your spouse (automatically gets work permission for any job)
- Bring unmarried children under 21 (they can go to school)
- Travel freely in and out of the U.S. with a valid visa
- Unlimited renewals every 2 years (no expiration limit)
- Change businesses while keeping your visa
- Hire employees from your home country
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Be a citizen of a treaty country (80+ countries qualify)
- Invest substantial money ($100,000–$300,000 typical)
- Control 50% or more of the business OR be the manager
- Have a real, operating business (not just an idea)
- Show the business is profitable (makes more than your living costs)
- Prove your money is clean (from legal sources)
- Intend to leave the U.S. when your visa ends
- No requirement for: Specific age, education, work experience, or English fluency
Financial Requirement
You must invest at least $100,000–$200,000 of your own money. This money must be "at risk"—it goes into the business, not sitting in a bank.
Documents
- Valid passportCurrent passport with biographical page
- Business ownership proofArticles of incorporation, stock certificates, or operating agreement
- Investment proofBank transfers, receipts, purchase contracts, escrow agreements
- Tax returns and financial statementsLast 2-3 years of business financials and profit/loss statements
- 5-year business planDetailed projections showing profitability and growth
- Ownership documentationProof you own 50% or control the business
- Family documentsBirth and marriage certificates if bringing spouse or children
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.