Why Is This the Right Time to Apply for an E-2 Visa?

2.5 minute read

"The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is one of the most popular business immigration visas for international entrepreneurs and investors. However, signs indicate that now is the best time to apply for an E-2 Visa. But why is that?"

Written by My Visa Source Team
Published on: Jul 21, 2021

The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is one of the most popular business immigration visas for international entrepreneurs and investors. However, signs indicate that now is the best time to apply for an E-2 Visa. But why is that?

Why Is This the Right Time to Apply for an E-2 Visa?

The E-2 Visa approval rating has remarkably remained the same over years at 89%. This approval rating is significantly higher compared to other nonimmigrant visas.

The over denial rate for nonimmigrant visas increased to 26% in 2019 compared to 22% in 2018. However, only the denial rate for E-2 Visas remains unaffected. Applicants from the following countries have the highest approval rate for E-2 Visa applications:

Australia
Argentina
Canada
Colombia
France
Great Britain
Germany
Japan
Italy
Mexico
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Taiwan
Turkey

What Are E-2 Visas?

The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is for international business owners and investors who want to establish their business in the United States. The E-2 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa that requires a substantial amount of investment by the applicant in the US. The E-2 Visa is also for employees in executive, managerial, or supervisory positions and employees with specialized knowledge that make their services essential to the enterprise.

What Are the Different Types of US investors?

There are 2 types of US investors:

Strategic/Financial Investor:

These include individuals or financial corporations seeking to enter a new market or diversify the product being offered. This requires a minimum investment ranging from $80,000 to $1,000,000. The main focus of such investors is to generate a high return on investments by expanding their business operations.

Lifestyle Investor:

These include international investors with a net worth of at least $1,000,000. These individuals are more likely to prioritize working fewer hours over generating more income. The minimum required investment ranges from $150,000 to $350,000. These investors prioritize the longevity of the business over profit generation. These investors are likely to sell their business after 2-4 years to return to their home country or to pursue permanent residence in the US.