E-2 Treaty Investor Visa

What is the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa?

The E-2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa. It allows individuals from specific treaty countries to live and work in the United States. This visa suits those who want to invest in a U.S. business or work as an essential employee, executive, or manager for a U.S. company owned by someone from their home country. Over 80 countries have a trade agreement with the U.S., making their citizens eligible.

As an E-2 investor, you can invest a significant amount of money in a U.S. business. This can be a new venture or an existing one. You can also work directly for the business you’ve invested in. If you are an E-2 employee, you can work for a U.S. business owned by a national of your home country in an executive, managerial, or essential capacity.

A key benefit of the E-2 visa is its flexibility. You can bring employees from your home country to work in your U.S. business if they also qualify. The visa is initially valid for two years. However, you can extend your stay indefinitely as long as you continue to meet the requirements. Extensions are typically granted for two years at a time. You can also travel outside the U.S. and re-enter to extend your stay.

The E-2 visa requires a “substantial” investment. This means the money must be committed and at risk, not just sitting in a bank account. The business must be viable and have the potential to create jobs and generate significant income beyond just covering your living expenses. This is not a visa for marginal businesses. You must also play an active role in managing the business, typically by owning at least 50% of it.

Eligibility Requirements for an E-2 Visa

To qualify for the E-2 visa, you must meet several specific criteria. The first is nationality. You must be a citizen of a country that has a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. There are over 80 such countries. Check the official list to confirm your country’s eligibility.

The second crucial requirement is investment. You must demonstrate that you have invested, or are actively in the process of investing, a substantial amount of money into a U.S. business. The investment must be “at risk.” This means the funds are committed to the business and subject to potential loss if the business fails. The investment cannot be speculative. The business itself must be a real, operational enterprise. It cannot be a “marginal” business, meaning it must be capable of generating significant income and creating jobs, not just providing a basic living for you and your family. For example, simply buying a home in the U.S. does not qualify as an E-2 investment.

Third, active management is required for E-2 investors. You must show that you will play a significant role in developing and directing the business. This often means owning at least 50% of the business. You will be responsible for making key decisions and overseeing daily operations. For E-2 employees, you must fill an executive, supervisory, or essential skill role within the treaty enterprise.

Fourth, the business type matters. The business must be an active commercial venture. Examples include retail stores, consulting firms, manufacturing businesses, or franchises. Owning undeveloped land or holding uncommitted funds in a bank account do not qualify. The business must have the potential for growth and positive economic impact in the U.S.

Finally, you must show the source of funds. You need to prove that the money for your investment was obtained legally. This can include personal savings, business earnings, or legally secured loans. You will need to provide documentation to support the legitimate origin of your funds.

E-2 Visa Timeline and Costs

The processing time for an E-2 visa varies depending on where you apply. If you are already in the U.S. and applying for a change of status, decisions typically come within 2 to 5 months. For faster processing, you can use premium processing, which shortens the timeframe to 15 calendar days for an additional fee.

If you are applying from outside the U.S. through a consulate, the timeline depends on the specific U.S. embassy or consulate. Processing times can range from a few weeks to several months. It is best to check with the specific consulate where you plan to apply for their current estimates. Consular processing generally involves a visa interview.

The E-2 visa has two main types of costs: the investment cost and the application cost. There is no official minimum investment amount set by USCIS. However, the investment must be “substantial.” This means it needs to be enough to ensure the successful operation of the business. The amount will vary based on the type and nature of the business. A common guideline is often considered to be at least $100,000, but it can be less for certain businesses.

Application costs include government filing fees and potential professional service fees. For U.S.-based applications (Form I-129):

• Form I-129: $460 – $3,200, depending on the petition type (E-2, H-1B, L-1, etc.) and specific filing scenarios.
• Form I-539 (for dependents): $420 (online) or $470 (paper filing).
• Premium Processing (Form I-907): $2,805 (optional for faster processing).

For consular processing:

• Form DS-160: No fee for filing.
• E-2 visa processing fee: $315.
• Reciprocity Fee: Some countries may charge additional fees based on their visa agreements with the U.S.
• Premium Processing (Form I-907): $2,805 (optional for faster processing for petitions filed with USCIS that are then sent to a consulate).

Remember to budget for legal fees if you use an immigration attorney. You might also have costs for business plan writers or other consultants.

What Happens After Your E-2 Visa Is Approved?

Once your E-2 visa is approved, the next steps depend on your application method.

If you applied from within the U.S. (Change of Status):

• You will receive a Form I-797 (Notice of Action) from USCIS. This confirms your status has changed to E-2.
• Work authorization begins immediately upon receiving this approval. You can start working for the business you invested in.
• If you plan to travel outside the U.S., you will need to get an E-2 visa stamp in your passport from a U.S. consulate abroad. This involves a new E-2 application and review by the consulate. Your I-797 approval only grants status, not a travel visa.

If you applied from outside the U.S. (Consular Processing):

• The U.S. consulate will stamp your passport with the E-2 visa. This officially grants you entry into the U.S. under E-2 status.
• You can then travel to the U.S. Upon arrival, a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry will inspect you.
• The CBP officer will create an I-94 travel record. This record indicates your E-2 status and the length of your authorized stay. Always review this for accuracy.
• Work authorization begins after you pass inspection. You are authorized to work for the business you invested in.

For all E-2 visa holders:

• Social Security Number (SSN): If you do not have one, you will need to apply for an SSN to work legally in the U.S.
• Taxes: As an E-2 visa holder, you are subject to U.S. tax laws. You must file both federal and state tax returns for any income earned in the U.S.
• Business Operations: Focus on running your business as outlined in your business plan. Ensure you continue to meet the E-2 eligibility requirements, especially regarding the “substantial” investment and the non-marginal nature of the business.
• Extensions: The E-2 visa is typically granted for two years. You can apply for extensions for two years at a time as long as your business continues to meet the requirements. You can also extend your stay by traveling outside the U.S. and re-entering with a valid E-2 visa.

Types of Businesses that Qualify for an E-2 Visa

The E-2 visa offers flexibility regarding the type of business you can invest in. You can establish a new business, purchase an existing one, or even buy a franchise. The main factor is whether the business demonstrates potential for growth and significant economic impact.

Qualifying businesses are active commercial or entrepreneurial ventures. They are not passive investments. This means the business must be operational and provide a service or product. Examples include:

• Service-based businesses: Hair salons, consulting firms, cafes, restaurants, IT services, marketing agencies, or healthcare clinics. These businesses rely on providing a service to customers.
• Retail businesses: Clothing stores, grocery stores, specialty shops, or online retail operations with physical presence.
• Manufacturing: Small to medium-sized manufacturing plants that produce goods.
• Import/Export businesses: Companies involved in the international trade of goods.
• Legal practices or other professional services: Lawyers, accountants, or architects can establish their practices if they meet the necessary professional qualifications and licensing requirements in the U.S.
• Franchises: Purchasing a franchise is a common and often successful option. Franchises often come with established business models, brand recognition, and operational support, which can simplify the E-2 application process. Examples include food franchises, retail franchises, or service franchises.

The key is that the business must be real, operational, and non-marginal. This means it should generate income beyond simply covering your living expenses. It should also have the potential to create jobs for U.S. workers. Investing in undeveloped land, purely speculative ventures, or businesses that only provide a minimal living wage would not qualify. The investment must be “at risk,” meaning the funds are genuinely committed to the business’s success.

Focus on a business plan that clearly shows how your investment will contribute to the U.S. economy. It should detail job creation, revenue projections, and operational strategies.

Do I Need an Additional Work Permit If I Have an E-2 Visa?

No, you do not need a separate work permit if you hold an E-2 visa. The E-2 visa itself serves as your authorization to work in the United States.

When you are approved for an E-2 visa, either through a change of status within the U.S. or through consular processing abroad, you are legally permitted to work for the specific business you have invested in. Your E-2 visa status directly grants you this work authorization.

Think of the E-2 visa as a combined visa and work permit. It allows you to reside in the U.S. and engage in employment directly related to the qualifying investment. You do not need to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from USCIS, which is often required for other visa categories or for certain dependents.

Once you have your E-2 visa or an approved I-797 (Notice of Action) showing your change of status to E-2, you can begin working. You will need to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) if you do not already have one. Your E-2 visa stamp in your passport or your I-94 travel record will be sufficient proof of your work authorization for employment verification purposes.

It is important to note that your work authorization under the E-2 visa is tied to the specific business. You cannot work for another employer or start another business without a new E-2 visa application or a change of status for that new entity. Your work is limited to the enterprise that qualified you for the E-2 visa. This contrasts with some other visa types that offer more flexible work options.

Can Employees of the Primary E-2 Visa Holder Also Obtain E-2 Visas?

Yes, in certain situations, employees of the primary E-2 visa holder can also qualify for an E-2 visa. This is a significant benefit for businesses needing to bring in key personnel from their home country.

For an employee to qualify for an E-2 visa, they must meet specific criteria:

• Same Nationality: The employee must hold the same nationality as the principal E-2 investor or the treaty enterprise. For instance, if the investor is a British national, the employee must also be a British national.
• Executive or Supervisory Role: The employee must be coming to the U.S. to fill an executive or supervisory position. This means they will oversee and direct a significant component of the enterprise’s operations. They should have control over a large proportion of the enterprise’s assets or employees. This role requires the ability to make broad policy decisions or to manage other supervisory, professional, or essential employees.
• Essential Skills: Alternatively, the employee can qualify if they possess “essential skills” that are critical to the efficient operation of the enterprise. These are specialized skills that are indispensable for the business. Examples include highly specialized technicians, unique product designers, or individuals with specific industry knowledge not readily available in the U.S. labor market. The skills must be unique and directly related to the business’s core function. The company must prove that the U.S. cannot fill this position.

The E-2 employee’s role must be necessary for the successful operation of the treaty enterprise. The U.S. government examines the employee’s qualifications, the nature of their duties, and how critical their role is to the business. The employee’s visa duration will typically align with the primary E-2 investor’s visa.

Bringing employees on E-2 visas can support the growth and efficiency of the U.S. business, especially in its early stages or for specialized operations. This allows the business to leverage specific expertise from the home country.

Can I Apply for a Green Card While on an E-2 Visa?

Applying for a Green Card while on an E-2 visa is possible, but it is complex. The E-2 visa is a “nonimmigrant” visa. This means it is for temporary stays in the U.S. A core requirement for E-2 visa approval is demonstrating “nonimmigrant intent.” This means you must intend to return to your home country when your authorized stay expires.

This nonimmigrant intent can conflict with the intent required for a Green Card application, which is a desire for permanent residency. This creates a potential challenge, often referred to as “dual intent.” While some nonimmigrant visas, like the H-1B, permit dual intent, the E-2 visa generally does not.

However, having an E-2 visa does not prevent you from pursuing a Green Card. You must carefully navigate the process. You cannot apply for a Green Card directly through the E-2 visa. Instead, you would need to qualify for a Green Card through an alternative pathway. Common options include:

• Employment-Based Green Cards: If your U.S. business grows and meets specific criteria, you might qualify for an employment-based Green Card. This could be through an EB-1 (for individuals with extraordinary ability or multinational managers), an EB-2 (for professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability), or an EB-3 (for skilled workers, professionals, or other workers). These categories usually require a U.S. employer to sponsor you, which could be your own company if structured correctly.
• Family Sponsorship: If you have an eligible U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family member, they could potentially sponsor you for a Green Card.
• EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program: This is another investment-based Green Card option. It requires a significantly higher investment (typically $800,000 or $1,050,000) and the creation of at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. This is a direct path to a Green Card, unlike the E-2.

The key is to seek guidance from an immigration attorney. They can help you understand the implications of “nonimmigrant intent” and plan your strategy. You must demonstrate that your intent to depart the U.S. after your E-2 stay is consistent with your current visa status, even if you eventually seek permanent residency through a different path. Careful planning is essential to avoid issues during your E-2 visa extensions or a Green Card application.

How Long Can I Stay in the U.S. on an E-2 Visa?

With an E-2 visa, you can initially stay in the U.S. for up to two years. The visa itself is typically issued for a maximum of five years, but the period of stay granted upon each entry is usually two years.

The good news is that the E-2 visa offers the potential for unlimited extensions. As long as your U.S. business continues to operate and you meet the E-2 eligibility requirements, you can request extensions of stay. Each extension is typically granted for another two years. There is no maximum number of extensions you can apply for. This means you can effectively stay in the U.S. for an extended period, as long as your business remains viable and compliant with E-2 rules.

There are two primary ways to extend your stay:

• Applying for an Extension of Status (Form I-129) within the U.S.: You can file Form I-129 with USCIS to request an extension of your E-2 status. If approved, your authorized stay will be extended for another two years. This method means you do not have to leave the U.S. during the process.
• Travel outside the U.S. and Re-entry: If you have a valid E-2 visa stamp in your passport (which can be valid for up to five years), you can travel outside the U.S. and re-enter. Each time you re-enter, you are typically granted a new two-year period of admission. This method can be a simple way to extend your authorized stay if your visa stamp is still valid.

The E-2 visa provides significant flexibility for long-term presence in the U.S. for qualified investors and essential employees. However, it is important to remember that it is still a nonimmigrant visa. This means you must continue to demonstrate that you are maintaining the requirements of the E-2 classification, including active involvement in your business.

Can I Travel Outside the U.S. While on an E-2 Visa?

Yes, E-2 visa holders are generally allowed to travel outside the U.S. You can leave the country and re-enter as long as your E-2 visa stamp in your passport is valid.

When you return to the U.S. with a valid E-2 visa, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the port of entry will typically grant you an automatic two-year period of re-entry. This is recorded on your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record. This re-entry period essentially acts as an extension of your authorized stay.

However, while travel is permitted, there are a few important considerations:

• Valid Visa Stamp: Ensure your E-2 visa stamp in your passport has not expired. If it has, you will need to apply for a new E-2 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad before you can re-enter.
• Purpose of Travel: Your travel should generally be for business or personal reasons that do not suggest you are abandoning your E-2 enterprise in the U.S. Frequent or extended trips outside the U.S. could raise questions about your intent to actively run your U.S. business. Immigration officials want to see that you are primarily present in the U.S. to manage your investment.
• Maintaining E-2 Status: Continue to meet all E-2 visa requirements, such as actively running your business and demonstrating its viability. Travel should not negatively impact your ability to fulfill your role in the U.S. enterprise.
• I-94 Record: Always check your I-94 record upon re-entry to ensure it accurately reflects your E-2 status and the correct admission period. You can access your I-94 record online.

In summary, the E-2 visa allows for international travel. This provides flexibility for business needs or personal vacations. The automatic two-year admission upon re-entry with a valid visa stamp is a convenient way to maintain your authorized stay in the U.S.

Can Dependents (Spouses and Children) of E-2 Visa Holders Obtain E-2 Visas?

Yes, the spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old of the primary E-2 visa holder can also obtain E-2 dependent visas. This allows families to stay together in the U.S. while the primary E-2 visa holder manages their business or works.

Here are key points regarding dependents:

• Visa Duration: Dependents are typically granted the same duration of stay as the main E-2 visa holder. If the principal E-2 holder receives a two-year period of admission, their dependents will also receive a two-year period.
• Nationality: An important distinction for dependents is that they do not have to share the same nationality as the primary E-2 visa holder. For example, if the primary E-2 visa holder is a British national, their spouse could be from Canada, and their children could have dual nationality. As long as they are a qualifying spouse or unmarried child under 21, they can obtain an E-2 dependent visa.
• Application Process: Dependents can apply for their E-2 visas either concurrently with the primary applicant or at a later date. This can be done through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad, or through a change of status if they are already in the U.S. on a different nonimmigrant visa.
• Work Authorization for Spouses: A significant benefit for dependent spouses of E-2 visa holders is that they are generally granted work authorization without needing to apply for a separate Employment Authorization Document (EAD). They can use their unexpired Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) as proof of work authorization. This allows E-2 spouses to seek employment in almost any field, with few restrictions. This is a considerable advantage compared to dependents on many other visa types.
• Children’s Activities: Dependent children can attend school in the U.S. but are not authorized to work. Once a child turns 21 or gets married, they are no longer eligible for E-2 dependent status and must pursue their own independent visa status if they wish to remain in the U.S.

The E-2 visa offers a strong pathway for entire families to reside in the U.S. while the primary investor or employee operates their business.

Can Dependent E-2 Spouses Work in the U.S.?

Yes, in most cases, dependent spouses of E-2 visa holders are automatically granted work authorization without needing to apply for a separate Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This is a significant advantage of the E-2 visa category.

Here’s how it works:

• Automatic Work Authorization: Spouses of E-2 visa holders receive work authorization as a benefit of their E-2 dependent status. They do not need to file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) to get an EAD card.
• Proof of Work Authorization: The unexpired Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record), which they receive upon entry to the U.S., serves as proof of their work authorization. The I-94 record should be annotated to indicate E-2S (E-2 Spouse) status. This annotation confirms their ability to work.
• Any Employer: Unlike the primary E-2 visa holder who can only work for the specific E-2 enterprise, the dependent spouse can work for virtually any employer in the U.S. They are not restricted to working for the principal E-2 holder’s business. This provides a great deal of flexibility for spouses seeking employment.
• Social Security Number (SSN): Like the primary E-2 holder, dependent spouses will need to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) if they do not already have one. The SSN is required for employment and tax purposes.
• Flexibility for Families: This work authorization for spouses makes the E-2 visa particularly appealing for families. It allows the spouse to pursue their career interests, contribute to the household income, and integrate into the U.S. economy.

This provision for dependent spouses distinguishes the E-2 visa from many other nonimmigrant visa categories. It reflects an understanding that family support is crucial for the success of treaty investors and essential employees.

Can I Change Jobs on an E-2 Visa?

No, the E-2 visa is tied to the specific business you have invested in or are employed by. You cannot generally change jobs to work for a different employer on an E-2 visa.

Here’s what this means:

• Specific Employer Limitation: Your E-2 visa grants you the ability to work only for the treaty enterprise that sponsored your visa. If you are the investor, you work for your own business. If you are an employee, you work for the specific U.S. company that applied for your E-2 visa.
• No General Work Authorization: The E-2 visa does not provide general work authorization that allows you to work for any employer in the U.S. This differs from other visa types, like certain types of work permits available to dependent spouses.
• Changes Within the Same Business: You are free to change roles or positions within the same business you invested in. For example, if you started as a general manager, you could transition to CEO as the business grows. This is permissible as long as you continue to fulfill the requirements of an E-2 investor or essential employee within that specific enterprise.
• Subsidiaries or Parent Companies: In some cases, you might be able to transfer to a subsidiary or parent company of the original E-2 qualifying business. However, this usually requires an amendment to your E-2 petition and careful review to ensure the new entity also meets E-2 requirements and the relationship to the original business is clear. This is not a simple job change and requires legal guidance.
• New E-2 Application for a New Business: If you want to invest in or work for a completely different business, you would typically need to file a new E-2 visa application (or a change of status petition) for that new enterprise. This would involve demonstrating that the new business qualifies and that you meet all E-2 criteria for that new venture.

The E-2 visa is focused on facilitating investment and trade between treaty countries and the U.S. It is not designed to provide broad employment flexibility. Your ability to work is directly linked to the success and continued operation of your qualifying E-2 business.

Do E-2 Visa Holders Pay Taxes?

Yes, as an E-2 visa holder, you are required to pay U.S. taxes. You will be subject to both federal and state tax laws for any income earned while in the United States.

Here’s what you need to know:

• U.S. Tax Residency: Depending on the length of your stay and your specific circumstances, you will likely be considered a U.S. tax resident. U.S. tax residents are taxed on their worldwide income, not just income earned in the U.S.
• Federal Income Tax: You will need to file an annual federal income tax return with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Your income from your E-2 business, as well as any other U.S. source income, will be subject to federal income tax rates.
• State Income Tax: Most U.S. states also have their own income taxes. You will need to file state tax returns in the state where your E-2 business operates and where you reside. State tax rates vary significantly.
• Social Security and Medicare Taxes: E-2 visa holders are generally subject to Social Security and Medicare taxes (FICA taxes) on their earnings from their U-2 business or employment.
• Other Taxes: Depending on your business activities, you might also be responsible for other taxes, such as sales tax, property tax (if you own real estate), or excise taxes.
• Tax Treaties: The U.S. has tax treaties with many countries, including some E-2 treaty countries. These treaties can sometimes reduce or eliminate certain types of U.S. taxes for residents of treaty countries. It is important to consult a tax professional to understand if any tax treaty provisions apply to your situation.
• Tax Planning: Given the complexities of U.S. tax laws and potential international tax implications, it is highly recommended to consult with a qualified tax advisor or accountant. They can help you understand your tax obligations, ensure compliance, and potentially identify tax-saving opportunities.

In summary, expect to pay U.S. taxes on your income as an E-2 visa holder. This is a standard obligation for individuals residing and earning income in the United States.

Can the E-2 Visa Lead to a Green Card?

No, the E-2 visa does not provide a direct path to a Green Card (permanent residency). The E-2 is classified as a “nonimmigrant” visa, meaning it is for temporary stays in the U.S. A core requirement for the E-2 is demonstrating “nonimmigrant intent,” which means you intend to return to your home country when your visa expires. This generally conflicts with the intent required for permanent residency.

However, holding an E-2 visa does not prevent you from pursuing a Green Card through other available pathways. If you wish to become a lawful permanent resident, you would need to qualify under a different immigration category. Common avenues include:

• Employment-Based Green Cards (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3):
  • EB-1: For individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors or researchers, or multinational executives/managers. If your E-2 business grows significantly and you meet the criteria for a multinational executive or manager, this could be an option.
  • EB-2: For professionals holding advanced degrees or individuals with exceptional ability. Your qualifications and the needs of your U.S. business could potentially lead to this.
  • EB-3: For skilled workers, professionals, or other workers. These employment-based categories usually require a U.S. employer (which could be your own company if structured appropriately) to sponsor you and may involve a PERM labor certification process.
• EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program: This is a direct path to a Green Card for investors. However, it has much higher investment requirements than the E-2 visa. Currently, the minimum investment is $800,000 in a targeted employment area (TEA) or $1,050,000 elsewhere, and it requires creating at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
• Family-Sponsored Green Cards: If you have an eligible U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative (e.g., spouse, parent, adult child), they could sponsor you for a Green Card.

The process of transitioning from an E-2 to a Green Card can be complex due to the differing intent requirements. It is crucial to work with an experienced immigration attorney. They can help you determine the most suitable Green Card category for your situation and develop a strategy that minimizes potential conflicts with your E-2 status. While not a direct path, the E-2 visa can provide a foothold in the U.S. economy, potentially setting the stage for a future Green Card application through other means.

Can My Family Join Me on an E-2 Visa?

Yes, your immediate family members can join you in the U.S. on E-2 dependent visas. The E-2 visa category is designed to allow families to remain together while the primary E-2 visa holder pursues their investment or employment in the United States.

The family members who can qualify for E-2 dependent visas are:

• Spouses: Your legally married spouse.
• Unmarried Children Under 21 Years Old: Your biological, adopted, or stepchildren who are unmarried and have not yet reached their 21st birthday.

Here are key aspects of family inclusion:

• Same Visa Duration: Your spouse and children will typically be granted the same duration of stay as you, the primary E-2 visa holder. For example, if you are admitted for two years, your dependents will also be admitted for two years.
• Nationality Flexibility: A significant benefit is that your dependents do not need to share your nationality. For instance, if you are a citizen of a treaty country, but your spouse is from a non-treaty country, your spouse can still qualify for an E-2 dependent visa.
• Work Authorization for Spouses: As discussed previously, dependent spouses of E-2 visa holders are generally authorized to work in the U.S. without needing a separate Employment Authorization Document (EAD). They can work for almost any employer. This provides considerable flexibility for the family’s financial well-being and integration into the U.S.
• Children’s Education: Dependent children can attend school in the U.S., including public or private elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as colleges and universities.
• Age-Out Rule: It is important to remember that children “age out” of dependent status when they turn 21 or get married. If they wish to remain in the U.S. after that, they will need to obtain their own independent visa status.

Bringing your family to the U.S. on an E-2 visa allows for a stable and supportive environment as you focus on your business or role. This family-inclusive aspect makes the E-2 visa an attractive option for many investors and essential employees.