Is it possible to start a business with an E2 visa?
Is it possible to start a business with an E2 visa?
Date: January 27, 2025 / Category: Blogs, E2 Investor Visa, TR
Author: Ergül Çeliksoy, Immigration Lawyer, CK Law Firm
If you're planning to start your own business to live and work in the United States, the E2 visa is perfect for this dream. Those who want to start a business with an E2 visa must make a substantial investment. However, taking action without thoroughly understanding the terms, benefits, and processes of this visa can lead to both wasted time and financial losses. In this article, I'll cover the following topics about the E2 investor visa:
- What is an E2 Visa?
- What are the requirements for starting a business with an E2 visa?
- Documents Required for E2 Visa Application
- What is the E2 Visa Price?
- Future Plans in America with an E2 Visa
Along with these topics, I'll delve into the details of the E2 visa. If you have any questions about these topics, you can always reach me in the comments section of this blog or on our website. Alternatively, if you'd like to connect with me directly, you can reach me through my LinkedIn account.
What is an E2 Visa?
An E2 visa allows you to obtain legal work and residency in the United States by establishing a business or making a significant investment in an existing business. The US E2 visa is an option open to applicants from various countries, including Turkey. To qualify for an E2 visa, the investment must be "substantial." This means the investment must be large enough to operate a business effectively, not just a nominal amount.
What are the advantages of the E2 Visa?
- Faster Approval Process: Compared to other visa types, the E2 visa has a faster application and approval process, typically taking 3–6 months.
- Including Family Members: Spouses and children under the age of 21 of E2 investor visa holders are also eligible. Spouses have the right to work in the US, and children can attend American schools.
- Green Card Opportunities: While the E2 visa itself does not provide a green card, many investors research ways to obtain one over time and switch to different statuses.
- Renewability: The E2 visa is issued for a specific period, but if your investment continues, the visa can be extended indefinitely.
What are the requirements for starting a business with an E2 visa?
US E2 visa requirements evaluate the investor's financial capacity and the investment's potential contribution to the US economy. Here are the key requirements:
- Citizenship from a Partner Country: The US E2 investor visa is only available to citizens of countries that have an investment treaty with the US. Turkey is included in this agreement.
- Sufficient Investment Amount: While there is no official minimum, the investment should be "large and significant." For more details, see our article "E2 Visa Investment Amount: How Much Should I Invest?".
- Active Business: Passive investments like buying real estate do not qualify. You must operate an active business.
- Economic Contribution: The investment must create jobs or otherwise contribute to the US economy.
Documents Required for E2 Visa Application
When applying for an E2 visa, Turkish investors must provide the following documents:
- Passport: A valid Turkish passport, with at least 6 months of validity beyond the planned travel date.
- Financial Documents:
- Personal bank statements
- Proof of source of investment (e.g., income statement or asset sale documents)
- Company Documents:
- Company registration documents
- Investment-related financial reports
- Other Documents:
- Evidence of the investment’s economic contribution to the US
- Proof of previous business agreements or contracts
These documents form the foundation of the application process. English translations must also be included.
What is the E2 Visa Price?
The cost of an E2 visa depends on the application process, consular fees, attorney fees, and other costs:
- Consular Fees: Around $205
- Attorney Fees: $2,000–$7,000, depending on the complexity of the investment
- Other Costs: Business setup expenses, document translation fees, and necessary licenses
In total, costs typically range from $5,000 to $15,000. Professional financial planning is strongly recommended before applying.
Future Plans in America with an E2 Visa
Starting a business in the US with an E2 visa provides not only economic but also educational and cultural opportunities. This visa allows investors to quickly establish their businesses and build a new life for their families.
If you want to establish a company in the US or expand your current business, you can contact CK Law Firm through our official website for detailed information on E2 investor visa requirements. You can also connect with me via LinkedIn for further guidance.