What is an E2 Visa? How Long Does It Last?

• FRONT JANUARY 16, 2025 / IN BLOGS, E2 INVESTOR VISA, TR

Ergül Çeliksoy, Immigration Lawyer, CK Law Firm

In this article, I answer the question, "What is an E2 visa?" and answer the most frequently asked questions I hear about the US E2 visa. Many Turkish citizens want the opportunity to live and work in the US. By applying for the visa that best suits your needs from the various visa options offered by the US, you too can gain the opportunity to work and live in the US. Now, let's address the questions I'll address in this article:

• What is an E2 Visa?
• What are the E2 Visa Requirements?
• How Long Does It Take to Grant an E2 Visa?

Along with these topics, I'll also touch on a few subtopics I hear frequently. If you're planning to apply for an E2 visa but aren't sure how to apply, you can reach us through our website or the comments section of our blog. You can also send me a message through my LinkedIn account to connect with me privately.

What is an E2 Visa?

First, the E2 visa allows citizens of countries with investment agreements with the US (including Turkey) to establish businesses that contribute to the economy in the US or invest in existing businesses. This visa covers families of investors, meaning you can live in the US with your spouse and children under the age of 21. The US E2 investor visa is designed specifically for entrepreneurs and those looking to make a difference in the business world, and it offers significant opportunities.

What are the E1 and E2 visas? What are the differences?

I hear many clients ask me what the E1 and E2 visas actually mean and what their differences are. If I were to briefly explain both visas, I would say:

• E1 Visa: Allows citizens of countries that have a trade agreement with the United States to trade internationally.
• E2 Visa: More investment-oriented. It also requires a certain investment amount.

To access our more detailed review of the E1 and E2 visas, you can access our content from the link.

What are the E2 Visa Requirements?

As of 2025, USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) has more clearly defined the requirements for the E2 visa. According to USCIS, the criteria applicants must meet are as follows:

• E2 Visa Investment Amount: The investment must be large enough to meet the planned business's operating costs. A minimum of $100,000 is generally expected. However, this amount can vary depending on the business's industry and location.
• Active Investment: Passive investments (e.g., purchasing real estate) are not accepted. The investment must actively contribute to the U.S. economy.
• Control and Management: The investor must retain control of the business and be responsible for its active management.
• Economic Contribution: Demonstrating that the business contributes to the U.S. economy. For example, creating new jobs is a key requirement.

Is It Difficult to Get an E2 Visa?

Another question I frequently receive is whether or not it's difficult to obtain an E2 visa. The answer to this question depends entirely on the applicant's preparation. However, with the 2025 update, I can say that the application process has become more transparent. This means that applicants can easily assess themselves.

If you believe you meet the criteria, the next step is to prepare the correct documentation and develop a business plan. If you need any assistance, please contact us via our Contact page with any questions or support.

How Long Does It Take to Grant an E2 Visa?

Now, let's move on to another important point: the length of time an E2 visa is valid. If you're eligible for an E2 visa, congratulations! While the duration of an E2 visa varies, it's generally granted for one to five years. This allows you to work in the United States seamlessly with an E2 visa. Furthermore, the good news is that you can renew your visa indefinitely as long as your investment activities continue. This means that as long as you can successfully operate your business, your right to remain in the US continues.

Does the E2 Visa Make It Easier to Get a Green Card?

The E2 visa doesn't directly lead to a Green Card. This means it doesn't automatically grant citizenship. However, those who use this visa have a very high chance of obtaining permanent residency in the future. With options like the EB-5 investor program, the E2 visa can be a crucial step toward a Green Card. Furthermore, the economic impact of your business and the jobs you create can significantly benefit you in your Green Card application.

Conclusion

In this article, I discussed the significant opportunities the E-2 visa offers entrepreneurs who want to establish or invest in a business in the US. However, I should also emphasize that successful completion of this process requires detailed preparation, a meticulous business plan, and an active role for the investor in the management of the business. For information about your E-2 eligibility, paperwork, and much more, please contact us at cklawfirm.org or by email at info@cklawfirm.org. You can also reach me directly on LinkedIn with any specific questions.