E-2 Treaty Investor
🇺🇸 United States visas · Business
What it is
For nationals of treaty countries who invest a substantial amount of capital in a bona fide U.S. enterprise and come to direct and develop it. Also available to essential employees of qualifying E-2 enterprises.
Key facts
- Category
- Business
- Duration
- Up to 2 years per stay, renewable in 2-year increments with no statutory maximum
- Processing time
- 8 weeks
- Maximum validity
- 2 years
- Extendable
- Yes
- Dependants
- Yes
- How to apply
- Embassy
Standard figures for this route. Some applicants pay a reduced fee or none at all, so confirm your own case on the official page.
Fees
- Application fee
- USD 315
Key requirements
- National of a country with a qualifying treaty of commerce with the U.S.
- Substantial, irrevocably committed investment in a real, operating U.S. enterprise
- At least 50% of the U.S. enterprise owned by treaty country nationals
- Investment must generate more than marginal income
- Intent to depart the U.S. when E-2 status ends
Working on this visa
Entry is solely to develop and direct the treaty enterprise (8 CFR 214.2(e)).
Bringing family
Spouse may apply for work authorization.
Facts checked against the official source. Last updated 1 August 2026.