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Old 08-02-2007, 12:03 AM  
Axeman
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Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Swamp
Posts: 5,201
This is what I found about E2 Visas - so unlike the other one you don't seem to get permanant residence just unlimited 2 year visa extensions where E5 you have the chance to become a permanent resident.

1. What is E-2 treaty investor visa?

The E-2 treaty investor visa is a nonimmigrant visa which allows foreign entrepreneurs from treaty nations to enter into the U.S. and carry out investment and trade activities.

Note: Investment activities include purchase of a new business. The investment must be significantly proportional to the total investment, that is, usually more than half the total value of the enterprise or, if a new business, an amount normally considered necessary to establish the business.
2. How do I qualify for E-2 visa?

To qualify for E-2 visa:


• You must be the national of the country that has an investor treaty with the U.S. and you are involved in international trade
• You must be serving your company in a capacity that is supervisory or executive in nature or involves skills essential to the operation of the business (key employee); or you are a 50 per cent owner of the company
• Your nationals own at least 50 per cent of the stock of your company i.e. the firm has the nationality of the treaty country
• You are investing or your company has invested substantial amount that is at risk, meaning subject to potential loss if the business does not succeed, in a bona fide enterprise in the U.S.
• The U.S. business will involve in active trade or rendering of services
• You intend to depart at the conclusion of your duties in the U.S.
3. What is a 'substantial investment'?

An investment of at least $200,000 is considered substantial. However, it is not fixed and there are a few consulates which accept as low as $100,000, while a few demand as much as $500,000. Ideally $200,000 would be the most appropriate figure.

Note 1: These figures are not the regulations of the USCIS, but they reflect our experience in these cases over the years.

4. What privileges do I enjoy on E-2 visa?

On E-2 visa, you may:


• Work legally in the company that is the investment vehicle in the U.S.
• Travel freely in and out of the U.S.
• Stay on a prolonged basis with unlimited two year extensions as long as you maintain E-2 qualifications
• Bring your dependents or accompanying relatives and your spouse may also work while in the U.S.
5. What are the limitations of E-2 visa?


• E-2 visas are available only to nationals of countries having trade treaties with the U.S.
• You are restricted to work only for the specific employer or self-owned business that acted as your E-2 visa sponsor
• E-2 visas are approved for two years at a time which makes the application/extension process cumbersome
6. How long can I stay in the US on investor visa?

You may stay on a prolonged basis with unlimited five year visa extensions or two year status extensions as long as you maintain E-2 qualifications. There is no limit on the number of extensions you can take.
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Last edited by Axeman; 08-02-2007 at 12:04 AM..
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