IS THE E-2 INVESTOR VISA STILL VIABLE?

 IS THE E-2 INVESTOR VISA STILL VIABLE?

Is the E-2 investor visa still viable?

Following the reform introduced in November 2019, which reduced the duration of the E-2 investor visa, it has become difficult for potential entrepreneurs to consider buying or starting a business in the United States. With its current duration of 25 months, is the E-2 investor visa still viable?

Is the E-2 investor visa still viable?

These articles on the E2 visa might interest you!

Obtaining the E-2 visa by creating your company

With the reduction of the E-2 visa from 60 to 25 months, many entrepreneurs have been wondering about the sustainability of their business. Good news for those who already have a business in the United States, as they retain their visa duration at 5 years. But what about those who want to start their own business in the United States?

The process of creating a company in the US and obtaining an E-2 visa can be complicated. Is it worth the financial evaluation of the project and the jobs created? Even if your application is well-prepared, it can be rejected by immigration, so should you take the risk of a 25-month visa? It's possible, if you're confident in your project, can afford it financially (you may be asked for a year's rent in advance to rent a space), and create jobs. Your visa is renewable, but you'll need to provide proof of your company's financial performance in accordance with your business plan.

Read also: Investing in a franchise to succeed in the United States

What are the solutions for obtaining the E-2 investor visa?

The franchise

When you're unfamiliar with the U.S. entrepreneurial market, having support through a franchise can be reassuring. The franchise system provides you with a concept and marketing, and helps you grow your business. You can also share your experiences with other franchisees.

Franchising is a good way to obtain an E-2 visa. Even though you must provide a 50% down payment and hold a management position, you're not starting from scratch; you're supported by the franchisor, which reassures immigration officials about your process and increases your chances of obtaining an E-2 investor visa.

Other investments

Investing in ATMs or water dispensers is another viable solution. Indeed, you can obtain the E-2 visa with these solutions. However, there are criteria to meet. Just like with starting a business, you must have your own funds. You should start the activity as soon as possible to generate results quickly. The advantage of this system is that it requires a lower investment, since, for example, the cost of setting up an ATM is $7,500 plus $2,000 for working capital. In addition, you don't need to be on-site; specialized companies as suppliers take care of everything (technical support, detailed reports, selection of points of sale, etc.).

Despite the reduction in the E-2 visa duration, entrepreneurs continue to apply. However, it is still simpler and safer to be supported, as with the franchise. In fact, immigration is more likely to issue the E-2 visa in this case.