E-2 Investor Visa: Expand Your Business to the United States
If you’re a citizen of a treaty country looking to invest in or expand a business in the U.S., the E-2 visa could be your pathway to success. Based in London, Ortega-Medina & Associates has helped clients from around the world secure E-2 visas for over 20 years.
Complete our E-2 Visa Assessment Form
What Is the E-2 Visa?
The E-2 Treaty Investor visa allows nationals of certain countries to enter the United States to:
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Develop and direct a business in which they’ve invested (or are actively investing) a substantial amount of capital;
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Invest in an existing U.S. business;
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Oversee investments made by a treaty-country business.
This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs, business owners, and expansionists.
What Counts as a “Substantial” Investment?
There’s no set dollar amount. The investment must:
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Represent a significant share of the total value of the business, or
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Be sufficient to launch and operate a profitable and viable business of the type proposed.
For startups, consulates like the U.S. Embassy in London may accept realistic job creation projections rather than existing payroll.
What Are the Key Requirements?
Successful E-2 visa applicants must show:
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A credible business plan with a path to profitability;
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Proof of source of funds and capital at risk;
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Evidence the business will create U.S. jobs;
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Personal commitment to develop and direct the enterprise.
For How Long Is the Visa Valid?
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U.K. citizens typically receive E-2 visas for 5 years.
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Visa duration varies by nationality, per the U.S. Reciprocity Table.
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Renewals are unlimited as long as the investment continues.
Can Family Members Join?
Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may obtain derivative E-2 status:
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Spouses can work in the U.S. without restriction;
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Children may attend school or university.
Can an E-2 Lead to a Green Card?
Yes—in specific situations. If your E-2 visa results from expanding a foreign business to the U.S., you may be eligible for EB-1C permanent residency after:
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At least 1 year of U.S. operations; and
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Both U.S. and foreign entities remain staffed and active.
How We Can Help
At Ortega-Medina & Associates, we handle every aspect of your E-2 application, including:
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Reviewing your investment documentation and business plan;
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Forming your U.S. entity and obtaining a federal EIN;
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Evaluating escrow arrangements for compliance;
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Advising on business address setup and licenses;
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Preparing your full petition and representing you before the U.S. government.
We also handle appeals at no extra charge (unless fraud or criminality is involved) and may offer alternate visa strategies in case of denial.
With over 20 years of experience, our firm has turned around cases other lawyers deemed unwinnable.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you’re considering an E-2 visa, contact us today to discuss your eligibility and business plans. We’ll give you an honest assessment—and if we take your case, it’s because we believe in its chances of success.
Ortega-Medina & Associates is committed to protecting and respecting your privacy.
