E2 Visa Navigator – Your Guide to U.S. Business Opportunities
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E2 Visa Navigator – Your Guide to U.S. Business Opportunities
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E2 Visa Eligibility by Country – Application Processes for UK, Canada, Portugal, and Mexico
Learn about the E2 visa eligibility criteria and processes for applicants from key E2 visa countries , including the UK, Canada, Portugal, and Mexico. Explore how nationals from these countries can successfully apply for the E2 investor visa and start or expand their businesses in the United States.
UK: E2 Visa Application Process
E2 Visa Eligibility for UK Citizens: UK nationals are eligible for the E2 visa based on the treaty agreement between the U.S. and the UK. To qualify, applicants must invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business and meet specific requirements:
- You must be a UK citizen and have ownership of at least 50% of the U.S.-based business.
- The investment must be substantial relative to the business, typically at least $100,000, though there is no fixed minimum. The investment should ensure the success of the business and show that it is not marginal (i.e., it must generate more than just a living for the investor).
- You must be entering the U.S. to direct and develop the business.
Key Steps in the Process:
- Business Preparation: Ensure the business plan is detailed, with clear financial projections demonstrating future success.
- Capital Investment: Deposit the funds in the U.S. or commit them to a business (e.g., purchasing property or securing contracts).
- Form DS-160: Complete this online form for a nonimmigrant visa.
- Supporting Documents: Include your passport, business plan, proof of investment, and financial documentation.
- Schedule a Consular Interview: Book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy in London for your visa interview.
Consular Process for UK Applicants: Once you have completed the required documentation and investment, the U.S. Consulate in London will process your application. During the interview:
- Be prepared to answer questions about your investment and business plan.
- Provide all financial and legal documents showing ownership and control over the U.S. business.
- If approved, the visa is usually granted for five years with potential renewals, provided the business continues to meet the requirements.
Canada: E2 Visa Application Process
E2 Visa Eligibility for Canadians: Canada is an E2 treaty country, and Canadian citizens can apply for an E2 visa if they meet the following requirements:
- You must be a Canadian citizen with ownership of at least 50% in a U.S. business.
- The investment must be substantial, and there is no official minimum amount, but the investment should be enough to ensure the success of the business.
- The business must generate more than just a living wage for the investor.
Key Steps in the Process:
- Business Research and Planning: Prepare a comprehensive business plan with a focus on how your business will thrive in the U.S.
- Invest Funds: Transfer the investment funds into the U.S. and either start a new business or buy an existing one.
- Submit DS-160 Form: This is the nonimmigrant visa application form that must be completed online.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Include evidence of your Canadian citizenship, financial statements, proof of investment, and your business plan.
- Schedule Consular Interview: Book an appointment at the U.S. Consulate General in Toronto or Vancouver.
Consular Process for Canadian Applicants: The consular process for Canadians involves submitting your documents and attending a visa interview at one of the U.S. Consulates. You will need to:
- Demonstrate control of the business and its operations.
- Provide financial and legal documents supporting your claims. If the visa is approved, Canadians usually receive it for up to five years, with the option to renew as long as the business remains viable.
- Provide financial and legal documents supporting your claims. If the visa is approved, Canadians usually receive it for up to five years, with the option to renew as long as the business remains viable.
Portugal: E2 Visa Application Process
E2 Visa Eligibility for Portugese Citizens: Portugal has an E2 treaty with the U.S., allowing its citizens to apply for an E2 visa under these conditions:
- • You must own at least 50% of a U.S. business or be in the process of purchasing one.
- The investment must be substantial, generally considered to be over $100,000, depending on the type of business.
- The business must generate more than a living wage for the investor and must contribute to the U.S. economy by hiring American workers.
Key Steps in the Process:
- Business Plan Development: Make sure your business plan demonstrates the potential for growth and profitability.
- Capital Investment: Invest in a U.S. business, and ensure that the investment is committed (e.g., purchasing property or equipment).
- Complete DS-160 Form: Submit this form online as part of the nonimmigrant visa application process.
- Collect Documents: This includes your Portuguese passport, evidence of investment, business plan, and financial projections.
- Schedule Consular Interview: Set an appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Lisbon for your interview.
Consular Process for Portugese Applicants: At the U.S. Embassy in Lisbon, you will undergo an interview to verify your eligibility for the E2 visa. You’ll need to:
- Provide evidence of your investment and ownership of the U.S. business.
- Answer questions about how you intend to manage and grow the business.
- Provide documentation proving that your investment is substantial. If approved, Portuguese applicants typically receive an E2 visa valid for up to five years, which can be renewed as long as the business continues to operate successfully.
Mexico: E2 Visa Application Process
E2 Visa Eligibility for Mexican Citizens: Mexican nationals are eligible for an E2 visa as Mexico is a treaty country. To qualify, you must:
- Be a Mexican citizen who owns at least 50% of a U.S.-based business.
- Invest a substantial amount in the business, which generally means an amount appropriate for the type of business, often above $100,000.
- The business must generate more than a living wage for the investor and contribute to the U.S. economy by creating jobs.
Key Steps in the Process:
- Develop a Detailed Business Plan: Ensure your business plan demonstrates future profitability and job creation.
- Make the Investment: Transfer the funds to the U.S. and show that the money is at risk in the business.
- Complete DS-160 Form: Submit this online as part of your nonimmigrant visa application.
- Gather Supporting Documents: Include proof of your Mexican citizenship, evidence of investment, business plan, and financial records.
- Schedule Consular Interview: Book your appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City or one of the U.S. Consulates in Mexico.
Consular Process for Mexican Applicants: During the consular interview, you’ll need to:
- Show that your investment is substantial and meets the E2 visa requirements
- Provide financial documents demonstrating the business’s potential to generate revenue.
- Answer questions about your business and its operations in the U.S. If approved, Mexican nationals typically receive an E2 visa valid for one year, with the option to renew as long as the business remains active and meets the requirements.