Investor Work Visas
Foreign investors wishing to work temporarily in the United States may apply for Investor Work Visas. This documentation allows the foreign national to live and work in the U.S. for a specific time period. Although the investor visa does not provide a direct pathway for a “green card”, it provides a relatively fast way for an investor to start up a business in the U.S. and bring his/her spouse and children to the U.S. Once they are in the U.S., they may come across opportunities to peruse permanent residence.
E-1 Treaty Trader Visa
This visa can be granted to foreign investors who wish to carry on substantial international trade between themselves, another foreign person, or a foreign organization in a country with which the United States has a treaty. They must intend to depart the U.S. upon the expiration of their visa.
General Details:
- Qualified treaty traders and employees will be allowed a maximum initial stay of two years.
- Two-year extensions or changes in status may be granted.
- There is no limit to the number of extensions that may be granted.
- Qualifying treaty countries include Canada, Mexico, Australia, France, Germany, the UK, and numerous others.
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
This visa allows a foreign entrepreneur to enter the U.S. to manage or direct his/her investment. This nonimmigrant (temporary) visa option offers a fairly quick way to enter the U.S. to start a business or purchase an existing one. It can also provide a way to transfer essential or managerial employees to the U.S. if you already have an established E-2 business. The E-2 visa is not limited to any specific type of business.
General Details:
- Qualified treaty investors and employees will be allowed a maximum initial stay of two years.
- Two-year extensions or changes in status may be granted.
- There is no limit to the number of extensions that may be granted.
- Qualifying treaty countries include Canada, Mexico, Australia, France, Germany, the UK, and
numerous others.
The E-2 visa is a perfect vehicle for entrepreneurs outside the U.S. wanting to start or invest in a business in the U.S.
There are many factors involved that determine if you should apply for an E-1 or E-2 visa. An experienced Arizona Immigration Lawyer can help you review the requirements for each, gather the required documentation, and complete the application process.
We can also help those with existing E-1 or E-2 visas apply for extensions or changes of status.
