Author: visaadmin

The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows nationals of treaty countries to enter the United States to invest in and manage a business. It is possible to qualify for the E-2 visa by purchasing an existing business or starting a new one.

In this article, we will discuss the investment amount for purchasing an existing business.

For details on how much to invest for a new startup business, click here

Understanding the E-2 Visa Investment Amount for Buying an Existing Business

No Fixed Minimum Investment

U.S. immigration law does not specify a fixed minimum investment amount for an E-2 visa. Instead, it requires that the investment be "substantial." Unfortunately, the term “substantial” lacks a clear numerical definition, making it difficult for investors to know exactly how much to invest. We understand that with tens of thousands of businesses available at varying prices, this ambiguity can cause significant stress and uncertainty.

Many investors worry about purchasing an existing business only to be denied the visa for not investing the right amount.

In this article, we'll explore some investment ranges for purchasing existing businesses to clarify how visa officers determine if an investment is substantial for an E-2 visa. By examining specific examples, we'll illustrate what constitutes a strong investment and what factors visa officers consider.

Key Considerations When Purchasing an Existing Business

Purchase Price, Financial Performance, and American Workers

The purchase price of an existing business is crucial but not sufficient on its own to meet E-2 visa requirements. When considering the investment amount, you MUST consider these two main factors:

1. Business Financial Performance: Determine whether the business generates sufficient profits for the E-2 investor and their family to live comfortably in the U.S. This factor is part of the E-2 visa requirements and visa officers will evaluate an existing business’ past performance to determine the E-2 investor’s potential income.
2. American Workers: Assess if the business can maintain and/or hire additional American workers, providing them with a livable wage. The E-2 visa aims to bring economic benefits to the U.S., so hiring American workers is essential.

Depending on the business's financial performance and payroll, additional investment beyond the purchase price may be necessary. While several factors determine E-2 visa eligibility, this article will focus on the above two main factors to help investors understand how much they should invest in an existing business.

Now let’s apply these two main factors (Business Performance and Job Creation) to the following investment ranges.

Existing Business with Purchase Prices of $100,000 or More

Purchasing an existing business with a purchase price of $100,000 or more, assuming it is the fair market value, could make for a substantial investment if:

1. Financial Performance: The business's financial performance over the past few years generates enough profits to allow a comfortable living for the investor and their family. This depends on the cost of living in the area where the investor and their family will reside and the number of household members. The chart below provides a general example.
2. American Workers: The business employs sufficient American workers. The employee payroll should demonstrate livable wage for the workers.

If these factors are met, then the business purchase price could be considered “substantial” and would make a promising E-2 visa application.

If these factors are not met, the business may be considered marginal (too small), and the investor may need to make additional investments to improve the business, increasing their investment beyond just the purchase price.

Businesses with Purchase Prices Below $100,000

From our years of experience evaluating thousands of businesses, many priced below $100,000 often have losses or mediocre profits. This does not mean they cannot qualify for the E-2 visa, but E-2 investors need to adjust their expectations regarding the investment amount.

Purchasing a business below $100,000 may not be considered a substantial investment if:

1. Financial Performance: The business’s financial performance over the past few years does NOT generate enough profit for the investor and their family to live comfortably in the U.S. Comfortable living depends on the cost of living in the area and the number of household members. The chart below provides a general example.

2. American Workers: The business does NOT employ a sufficient number of American workers or provide a livable wage for them. The E-2 investor is expected to create or maintain meaningful jobs for the U.S. labor market. What is considered meaningful jobs depends on a variety of factors, including the number of employees, wage levels, part-time or full-time workers, professional, skilled or unskilled occupations, etc.

If the business does not show strong financial performance or adequate employment of American workers, then it may be considered marginal and not qualified for the E-2 visa. In such cases, additional investments to improve the business will likely be necessary to present a viable E-2 visa case, increasing the total investment beyond just the purchase price.

ANNUAL INCOME FOR COMFORTABLE LIVING IN THE UNITED STATES

Conclusion

As you can see, due to these additional factors, the E-2 visa law cannot specify an exact investment amount. However, we have a clear methodology to evaluate whether an investment amount is sufficient for the E-2 visa. We have successfully applied these methods in over 600 approved E-2 visa cases so far.

Purchasing an existing business can be a viable path to obtaining an E-2 visa, but it requires careful consideration. If you'd like an evaluation of your investment amount for an existing business, we are here to help. Please contact our office to request a business evaluation.

How We Can Help

Tailored Solutions for E-2 Visa Applicants

Our law firm specializes in providing in-depth knowledge and tailored solutions for E-2 visa applicants. We go beyond standard regulations to address unique business, visa, and logistical challenges.

1. Real Strategies: Proven strategies that have helped hundreds of clients achieve E-2 approval.
2. Expert Guidance: Our team has extensive experience with E-2 visas, offering step-by-step guidance.
3. Referral Network: Access to a network of professionals who understand the E-2 process.

Contact Us

The E-2 Investor Visa provides Canadians with the opportunity to live in the United States while working and managing their own U.S. based business.

There are lots of questions that surround the E-2 visa. In this article, we’ll walk you through the submission process such as where to apply, how to apply, what forms are required, and visa fees.

Most importantly, we’ll highlight the investment process which is all the pre-work that needs to be done even before an E-2 application is prepared and submitted.

The following application and submission information is specific for Canadian citizens and legal residents of Canada.

• Where to Apply
• Submission Process
• After Submission
• Investment Process (Before Submission)
• Summary FAQ

Please note that each U.S. Embassy or Consulate has its own procedures and requirements. E-2 Visa submission procedures and processes are subject to change without any given notice by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Where to Apply

Toronto U.S. Consulate

Canadians can apply for the E-2 Investor Visa at the U.S. Consulate in Toronto, which is specifically designated for handling E-2 visa applications. Once approved, Canadians can receive an E-2 visa valid for up to five years, allowing multiple entries into the United States during this period. This means that the E-2 visa for Canadians authorizes travel in and out of the U.S. without restrictions.

What About Other U.S. Consulate Locations?

All other U.S. Consulates in Canada do not process E-2 investor applications, except for E-2 dependent spouses and children, or employees filing separately from the primary E-2 investor applicant.

Can I Apply Inside the U.S.?

Applying within the U.S. is known as a Change of Status (COS). This process differs from applying for an E-2 visa at the U.S. Consulate in Toronto. There are significant differences that lead most Canadians to prefer applying in Toronto. For details about COS verses Consular visa processing, watch our video.

This article will focus on E-2 visa submission to the U.S. Consulate in Toronto.

Submission Process

The submission procedure for the E-2 Investor Visa involves several key steps outlined below. Before filing an E-2 application, the investor must first meet the E-2 visa requirements by making a qualifying buisness investment, as described in the section titled "Before Submitting the E-2 Application" in this article.

Completing the DS-160 Form

Once an applicant has completed their investment, the first step in the submission process is to fill out the Form DS-160, online non-immigrant visa application. This form typically requires details about your visa and U.S. travel history, education and work history, and, most importantly, information about your investment amount, expenditures, business details, and employees.

If an investment has not been completed through either starting a new business or purchasing an existing business, you will be unable to properly complete the business information section of the DS-160, and thus, preventing you from submitting the application form. It is crucial to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date, as any discrepancies between your answers and the supporting documents can delay your visa processing or result in E-2 visa denial.

You should not submit the DS-160 form for your E-2 visa application, until you have made a business investment that meets the E-2 visa requirements. For more details on making a qualifying investment, please refer to the section titled "Before Submitting the E-2 Application" in this article.

Prepare and Submit Form DS-156E, Treaty Investor Application

Form DS-156E is used for the E-2 Investor Visa to demonstrate the applicant is making a substantial investment in a qualifying U.S. business by either starting a new business or purchasing an existing one. This form is typically submitted together with supporting documents for the E-2 investment.

Key Sections of DS-156E

Part 1: Information About the U.S. Enterprise

• Details about the U.S. business, including name, address, nature of the business, and proof of the enterprise's nationality.
• Information about the total investment amount and the applicant’s role in the business.

Part 2: Information About the Staff

• Information about the U.S. business personnel, such as managers and employees.

Part 3: Information About the Applicant

• Description of the applicant’s qualifications and how they are essential to the enterprise's operations.

Form DS-156E may seem straightforward with only three pages, but it is more complex than it appears. Completing sections such as "Total Investment" requires a deep understanding of what constitutes a substantial investment in relation to the business; the appropriate balance of remaining cash; and which equipment purchases count toward the investment (e.g., whether a vehicle purchase is included). There is significant preparatory work and understanding required to make an investment eligible for the E-2 visa before filling out this form. Additionally, any discrepancies between this form, the supporting documents, and the DS-160 can lead to visa delays or even denial of the visa application.

Pay the Visa Fee

The visa fee for the E-2 Investor Visa is $315 USD per person. For families, this fee will multiply by the number of applicants. For example, a family of four will need to pay a total of $1,260 USD (315x4).

Keep in mind that visa fees are subject to change, so please verify the current fee amounts before making payments.

Supporting Documents

Compile all necessary documents and evidence to support your E-2 application. This includes your DS-160 confirmation page(s), visa fee payment receipt, and any additional documents required by the U.S. Consulate, such as but not limited to:

• Passports
• Business registration documents
• Partnership agreement
• Shares/stock certificates
• Source of funds
• Receipts/Invoices of startup expenses
• Purchase agreement for purchasing existing business
• Bank statements
• Proof of payroll

For more examples, sign-up for the “Ultimate E-2 Visa Guide”, where you’ll receive our eBook containing a list of common supporting documents for the E-2 visa.

Prepare a Cover Letter and Table of Contents

The Toronto U.S. Consulate requires a cover letter explaining how the applicant's investment meets the E-2 visa requirements. Additionally, a table of contents outlining the supporting documents must be included in the application.

Submit the E-2 Visa Application Package

Submit the forms, cover letter, table of contents, and supporting documents to the Toronto U.S. Consulate, which only accepts digital submissions by email.

Disclaimer: Visa fees and submission procedures are subject to change. Always check the latest information on the U.S. Consulate's website before proceeding.

After Submission

Once you have submitted your E-2 visa application, the processing time can vary. Typically, it takes between 1-3 months for the U.S. Consulate in Toronto to review and process an E-2 application in most cases. The 1-3 months process includes:

Application Review

Consular staff will review your application to ensure all documents are complete and accurate. They may request additional information if needed. If they are satisfied, the Consulate will send you an invitation email to schedule a visa interview appointment. It may take between 2-4 weeks or longer to receive a reply from the consulate. Applicants will need to be patient.

Visa Interview Scheduling

If your application meets the necessary criteria, you will receive an email inviting you to schedule an interview appointment at the Toronto consular office. Note that interview dates are usually available one or more months into the future.

Visa Interview

During the interview, visa officers will assess your eligibility for the E-2 visa. Be prepared to discuss your investment, business plans, and personal background. After the interview, you will receive a response indicating whether your application is approved, denied, or requires further administrative processing.

Investment Process (Before Submission)

The E-2 visa requires that an investment be committed first. In simple terms, you need to actually invest your funds to start up a business or purchasing an existing business before submitting anything to the U.S. Consulate.

How To Get Started On The Investment Process?

1. Speak with an experienced E-2 Visa Attorney:

 Receiving proper guidance from the beginning is important. An experienced attorney can help you understand what qualifies as legitimate funding sources; how to transfer funds correctly; and other important details. Avoid common mistakes that could lead to E-2 visa denial.

Videos

• Two Essentials To Discuss With An E2 Attorney
• 3 Key Factors for E-2 Visa Approval
• Foundations To A Strong E-2 Application

Speak With Us – let us know your goals, get real-life strategies, get your questions answered. 

2. Determine the Right Investment Amount:

Make sure you have a substantial investment amount appropriate for the type of business, and have a clear understanding of how to allocate the investment spending to satisfy the E-2 visa requirements. Use the free resources below to learn how much to invest for the E-2 visa.

Reading Material

• Minimum Investment Amount for E-2 Visa Approval

Videos

• How To Get An E-2 Visa Without Spending A Fortune
• What Is A Substantial Investment?

3. Choose the Right Business:

Decide on a business to start-up or purchase. From evaluating thousands of businesses, Attorney Bobby Chung has developed a four factor formula to determine ideal business models for E-2 visa eligibility. You can find out what these four factors are in the links below.

Reading Material

• What Businesses Qualify for the E-2 Visa?
• Franchise Business for E-2 Visa

Videos

• 4 Must Have For Any E-2 Business
• Retail versus Non-Retail Business for E-2 Visa

Start-up Businesses: We assess start-up business models and provide feedback on how to make them qualify for the E-2 visa using our four-factor formula.

Existing Businesses: We evaluate the financial performance of existing businesses, growth potential, and offer insights into their eligibility for the E-2 visa or suggest improvements to meet E-2 visa requirements based on our four-factor formula.

4. Make the Investment:

Allocate the spending of funds for the business.

For a start-up business, visa officers seek evidence of a commitment to future growth, such as adequate working capital, hiring American workers, securing commercial premises, purchasing inventory, conducting marketing, and establishing necessary infrastructures. Generally, a substantial investment is necessary to demonstrate this level of business operation and to be seriously considered by visa officers.

For an existing business, this means having a purchase agreement and proof of funds committed to the business acquisition. Depending on the business performance and financial strength, the visa officer may also expect to see additional investments to make business improvements and demonstrate future growth potential.

Check out our fantastic video that offers a detailed walkthrough of the E-2 process, featuring one of our Canadian clients.

In this video, we explore common concerns and discuss three major challenges that Dave, our client, encountered—challenges that many investors face. We also share practical solutions to help you overcome these hurdles.

Reading Material

• Frequently Asked Questions About The E-2 Visa

Video

• Canadian Client Case Study: Full Walk Through On The E-2 Visa Process

All Investment Funds Must Come from Qualifying and Traceable Sources (NO CASH)

The source of your investment funds may be scrutinized closely. Funds must be obtained legally, and you should be prepared to provide clear documentation proving their origin. This could include bank statements, tax returns, asset sales, and/or evidence of business profits.

How Do I Start or Purchase a Business if I am Not in the United States?

When you are ready to make an investment and have received full guidance from an experienced E-2 attorney, you can begin by visiting the United States to establish a physical business presence or search for and purchase an existing business. Canadians may seek entry into  the U.S. with their Canadian passport as B-1 Business Visitors.  Canadians normally do not need to apply for a visitor’s visa. While entering as a B-1 business visitor allows you to conduct business set-up activities, it does NOT authorize you to work, until you receive the E-2 visa. It is crucial to clearly communicate to the border CBP officers your intention to make a business investment and then depart the U.S. to apply for the E-2 visa with the U.S. Consulate to avoid the risk of being denied entry into the U.S.

Conclusion

The E-2 Investor Visa process for Canadians requires careful preparation and attention to detail. The right E-2 attorney can help you properly implement and optimize the business investment to satisfy the E-2 visa with actionable real-life strategies.

Get started with us – share your goals and find out how to make a strong investment for the E-2 visa

Summary FAQs

How long is the E-2 visa valid for Canadians?

The E-2 visa for Canadian applicants is valid for up to five years, allowing multiple entries into the United States during this period.

What is the visa fee for the E-2 application?

The consular visa fee is $315 USD per person. For a family of four, the total cost would be $1,260 USD.

Where should Canadians apply for the E-2 visa?

Canadians should apply with the U.S. Consulate in Toronto, which handles all E-2 visas for Canadian investors.

How long does the E-2 visa processing take?

The E-2 applicant must first make an investment.  The investment process can take between 2-5 months or  more for many of our E-2 clients. The time it takes will depend on the individual and how quickly they complete their investment process.

After submitting the E-2 application, the Toronto U.S. Consulate’s processing time usually ranges between 1-3 months in most cases, depending on the completeness and accuracy of the application, and the Consulate’s workload at the time you apply. Generally, the Toronto Consulate is one of the most efficient and faster U.S. Consulates to process E-2 applications in our experience.

What documents are required for the E-2 application?

Required documents include the DS-160 confirmation, visa fee receipt, Form DS-156E, Cover Letter, Table of Contents and supporting documents, including biographic documents, business plan, documents evidencing proof of funds, receipts/invoices/contracts evidencing investment expenditures, and any additional forms specified by the U.S. Consulate.

How do I get started?

Speak with an attorney, determine your investment amount, select a business, and then make your investment.

What should I expect during the E-2 visa interview?

During the interview, Consulate Officers will evaluate your E-2 visa eligibility based on your investment, business plans, and background. Be prepared to discuss details provided in the DS-160 and DS-156E as well as any unique challenges to your case and solutions to overcome them. Your E-2 attorney should help you prepare for the visa interview.

Please Note: This blog is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be regarded as legal advice. As always, it is advisable to consult with an experienced immigration attorney for personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.

Starting a business in the United States can be straight forward even for non-resident foreign nationals in certain circumstances. There are even some scenarios where you would not need to visit the U.S. to establish a business.

If you plan to visit the U.S. to form a business or to live in the U.S., then you’ll also need to consider the right visa. We will discuss the appropriate visa options, and how to visit the U.S. as a business visitor for starting a business.

5 Steps to Starting a Business for Non-Resident Foreign Citizens

1. Decide on a Business Structure:

The first step in starting a business in the U.S. is to decide on the most suitable business structure for your venture. Common options for non-resident foreign citizens include:

Limited Liability Company (LLC): An LLC offers flexibility, limited liability protection, and pass-through taxation. It's a popular choice for small businesses and startups.

Corporation: A corporation provides limited liability protection and allows for the issuance of stock, making it ideal for businesses seeking to raise capital or go public. There is the C Corporation and S Corporation. It’s important to note that non-residents foreign citizens are not permitted to own S Corporation, until residing in the U.S. for at certain period of time.

Partnership: A partnership involves two or more individuals or entities sharing ownership and management responsibilities. It's commonly used for professional practices or joint ventures.

Consider consulting with a legal or tax advisor to evaluate the pros and cons of each business structure and choose the one that best suits your needs and long-term goals.

2. Register the Business:

Once you've chosen a business structure, you'll need to register your business with the appropriate authorities. The registration process varies depending on the state where you plan to operate. Generally, you'll need to:

File formation documents, such as:

• Articles of Organization for an LLC or Articles of Incorporation for a corporation
• Secretary of State or other relevant state agency.

It's important to research the specific requirements and procedures for business registration in the state where you intend to conduct business.

3. Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN):

An Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, is a nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify your business for tax purposes. Even if your business doesn't have employees, obtaining an EIN is necessary for:

• Opening a business bank account.
• Filing federal and state taxes.
• Hiring employees in the future.
• In some cases, applying for appropriate business license(s) and permit(s)

You can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website, and the process is free of charge. If you want professional assistance with filing an EIN, a business attorney or a tax expert such as, Certified Public Accountant (CPA) can assist with the application.

4. Apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), if Needed:

If you don't have a Social Security Number (SSN) or are not eligible to obtain one, you'll need to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

It is usually not necessary to have an SSN to start a business. However, some businesses may require an SSN for the purpose of obtaining certain business license(s) or permit(s). If a business license or permit needs an SSN, then it may be possible to use an ITIN as an alternative, depending on the city, state and federal authorities.

To apply for an ITIN, you'll need to complete the Form W-7 and submit it along with supporting documentation, such as a valid passport or other identification documents to the IRS. It's important to note that an ITIN is for tax purposes only and does not confer any immigration status.

If you want professional assistance with applying for an ITIN, a tax expert such as, Certified Public Accountant (CPA) can assist with the application.

5. Open a U.S. Business Bank Account:

Opening a U.S. business bank account is essential for business-related transactions such as purchases and receiving payments. As a non-resident foreign citizen, you may encounter additional requirements or restrictions when opening a bank account in the U.S.

Some banks may require you to have physical presence in the U.S., such as a registered office (business premise) or a representative who can visit the branch in person. Additionally, you'll need to provide documentation to verify your identity and business ownership, such as your EIN, entity formation documents, and proof of address.

Research different banks and their account options to find one that caters to the needs of U.S. businesses owned by non-resident foreign citizens and offers suitable features and services.

If you hold an account with a bank that operates internationally, you may be able to open a U.S. business account remotely, bypassing the need for physical presence.

Do you need a visa to start a business in the U.S.?

In general, no, you don’t need a U.S. visa to start a business in the U.S. However, depending on your goals, such as whether you want to live in the U.S. or you just need to temporarily visit the U.S., will determine whether you need a visa.

Temporarily Visiting the U.S. to Start U.S. Business

For foreign nationals who do not intend to live in the U.S. and are able to operate the business remotely from abroad, a U.S. visa may not be required. However, if you plan to visit the U.S. for business-related activities such as opening a U.S. business bank account or scouting for business locations, you will need to enter the U.S. as a B-1 Business Visitor or with the ESTA Visa Waiver Business (WB). Most people achieve this by obtaining a B1/B2 Visitor’s Visa or an ESTA Visa Waiver travel permission for certain nationals. It's crucial to enter as a B-1 or WB business visitor, and not as a B-2 or WT pleasure visitor. As business visitor, foreign nationals are permitted to engage in certain business activities in the U.S., including investing-in or setting-up a business, but may NOT to work in the business.

Intending to Live Inside the U.S. and Work in the U.S. Business

For foreign nationals who wish to reside in the U.S. and actively work within their U.S. business, a common visa option is the E-2 Investor Visa. The E-2 visa allows foreign business owners to reside in the U.S. and legally work within their U.S. business. Additionally, the foreign investors may bring their spouse and unmarried children under age 21, as E-2 dependents. You can find more information about the E-2 visa option:

https://e2visalawyer.net/visa-resource-center/

Summary

For foreign nationals, starting a U.S. business can mean tremendous financial opportunities. Before taking actions, it’s crucial to understand the U.S. visa requirements and implications, depending on your goals. Whether you plan to operate the business remotely or reside in the U.S. and work within your business, there are specific visa options to consider.

For those intending to apply for the E-2 investor visa, it's essential to proceed with caution. Before taking any of the initial steps, it's strongly advised to consult with an experienced E-2 visa attorney. The setup of your business must follow the E-2 visa requirements from the outset. Incorrect business structures or improper fund transfers to the U.S. business account could potentially jeopardize your E-2 visa case. Therefore, seeking guidance from a knowledgeable reputable and knowledgeable attorney specializing in E-2 visas is crucial to maximize your chances of success. With proper planning and legal guidance, you can embark on your journey to start a successful business in the United States.

With the introduction of Portugal into the E-2 treaty country list under the AMIGOS Act signed by President Biden in December 2022, Portuguese citizens now have a unique opportunity to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions in the United States. As of May 2024, after a delay in implementation, the U.S. officially opens its doors to Portuguese investors under the E-2 Visa Program. This development presents a significant opportunity for those looking to establish and operate businesses in one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets.

Understanding the E-2 Investor Visa

The E-2 Investor Visa allows individuals from treaty countries to live and work in the U.S. by investing a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business. While the exact amount of investment required is not strictly defined, it must be sufficient to ensure the successful operation of the business. The investment must be in a real operating enterprise, and speculative or idle investments do not qualify.

Benefits of the E-2 Visa

1. Long-term Stay: The E-2 visa is initially valid for up to five years and can be extended indefinitely, as long as the business continues to operate and meet all requirements.
2. Work Authorization: Not only does the visa holder gain the right to work in their own business in the U.S., but spouses of E-2 visa holders also gain work authorization, providing additional support and flexibility for families.
3. Travel Flexibility: E-2 visa holders can travel in and out of the U.S. with fewer restrictions, making it easier to manage business operations both domestically and internationally.

Key Requirements for Portuguese Applicants

1. Substantial Investment: The investor must make a substantial capital investment in a bona fide enterprise in the U.S. There is no minimum amount specified, but generally, investments of less than $100,000 may be scrutinized more closely unless the nature of the business involves less capital.
2. Control of the Investment: The investor must control the funds, and the investment must be at risk in the commercial sense. Loans secured with the investment enterprise are not allowed.
3. Real and Operating Enterprise: The investment must be in a real operating enterprise. Passive investments like real estate purchases, unless part of a larger active business, do not qualify.
4. Capability to Generate More Than Enough Income: The enterprise must have the capacity to generate significantly more income than just to provide a living to the investor and family, or it must have a significant economic impact in the U.S.
5. Nationality Requirement: The primary investor must hold Portuguese citizenship.

Steps to Apply

1. Develop a Business Plan: This is crucial and must detail how the business will meet the requirements of the E-2 visa. It should include financial projections and a clear path to profitability.
2. Investment and Business Setup: Before applying for the visa, the applicant must make the investment and begin the business setup. This may include purchasing equipment, signing a lease, etc.
3. Visa Application Process: The application includes filling out relevant forms, preparing a comprehensive package of documents including the business plan, proof of investment, and evidence of business setup, and attending an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy.

Navigating Challenges

While the E-2 visa offers many opportunities, there are challenges as well. These include proving the legitimacy of funds, managing a business in a foreign country, and understanding and adhering to U.S. laws and regulations. It is highly recommended to consult with immigration and business professionals to ensure compliance and to streamline the visa application process.

Conclusion

For Portuguese entrepreneurs eyeing the vast American market, the E-2 Investor Visa represents a flexible and dynamic pathway to business development and growth in the U.S. With the right preparation, investment strategy, and legal guidance, Portuguese citizens can now leverage this opportunity to expand their entrepreneurial horizons and potentially create lasting impacts on both the U.S. and global economies.

Please Note: This blog is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be regarded as legal advice. As always, it is advisable to consult with an experienced immigration attorney for personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.