The E2 visa is a unique type of non-immigrant visa that provides entrepreneurs and investors the opportunity to enter the United States and establish a business. It is often referred to as the key to enter the USA. However, there are a few essential aspects you must understand to ensure you can make the most of this opportunity.
To qualify for an E2 visa, you must buy or create a business that generates enough income to support you and your family while living in the US. This is an essential requirement, as you must demonstrate that the business will contribute to the American economy and provide you with a stable source of income. Therefore, careful planning and research into the type of business you want to establish is necessary.
While financial success is vital, it's equally important to enjoy what you do. Pursuing your passion will not only improve your chances of success, but also enhance your overall experience while living and working in the United States. Therefore, take the time to consider your interests and skills and how they can translate into a viable business opportunity. Aligning your passion with your enterprise will make the entire process more fulfilling and rewarding.
Though the E2 visa grants you entry into the USA, it is crucial to understand its limitations. It is not a direct path to citizenship, and thus, you must renew your visa periodically to maintain your legal status. Additionally, once your children turn 21, they must secure their own visas to continue residing in the country.
As your children approach the age of 21, they should explore alternative visa options to ensure they can remain in the United States legally. This may involve obtaining a student visa (F-1) for pursuing higher education, an employment-based visa (H-1B, L-1, or O-1), or even seeking sponsorship for a green card.
The E2 visa offers entrepreneurs and investors the opportunity to chase the American Dream. It is the key to enter the USA, but it's essential to be aware of its limitations. Establishing a sustainable and enjoyable business is crucial to making the most of this opportunity. Furthermore, understanding the visa's boundaries and planning for the future, especially for your children, is vital to ensure a smooth and successful journey in the United States. By taking the necessary steps to meet the requirements and embracing the challenges that come with this unique visa category, you can build a thriving business and create a rewarding life in the land of opportunity.
Sylvain Perret is a business professional who has been living in the United States since 2010. Along with his wife Daphnee, he has established several businesses in the country, including Integrity International Brokers, an agency based in Orlando where he works as a business broker, real estate broker, business consultant, and business plan writer. Over the years, he has helped numerous clients from around the world achieve success in their projects to create or take over a company in the United States with an E2 visa. He is highly knowledgeable about U.S. immigration issues and is the author of the book "S'expatrier aux USA grâce aux visas d'entrepreneurs," which is soon to be translated into English. Sylvain is also a Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) by the International Business Brokers Association and is regularly consulted on issues related to this field. At the age of 50, Sylvain chose to enhance his expertise in finance and strategy by pursuing a Master of Business Administration from the University of Central Florida. He successfully graduated in May 2023, adding a valuable finishing touch to his knowledge. He is active on LinkedIn and Twitter, where he shares his insights and experiences with a wider audience.
