Determine eligibility:
The first step in obtaining an E-2 visa is to determine if you are eligible. The E-2 visa is available to citizens of countries that have a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States, and you must be coming to the U.S. to engage in substantial trade or investment.
Establish a qualifying business:
The next step is to establish a qualifying business in the U.S. The business must be owned and controlled by the treaty investor, and it must have the potential to generate sufficient income to support the investor and their dependents.
Prepare a comprehensive business plan:
The third step is to prepare a comprehensive business plan that outlines the nature of the business, the market and industry, the sources of capital, the management structure, and the projected financial performance. The business plan should also demonstrate that the investment is substantial and at risk.
File Form DS-160:
After the business plan has been prepared, the next step is to file Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, with the U.S. Department of State. This form is used to provide information about the applicant and the purpose of their trip to the U.S.
Attend a visa interview:
The next step is to attend a visa interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy. During the interview, the consular officer will review the applicant’s business plan and assess the viability of the business, the likelihood of success, and the investor’s ability to support themselves and their dependents.
Receive visa approval:
If the visa interview is successful, the next step is to receive visa approval. The approved visa will be stamped in the applicant’s passport, and they will be authorized to travel to the U.S.
Enter the U.S.:
The final step in the E-2 visa process is to enter the U.S. Upon arrival, the investor must present their passport and visa to a Customs and Border Protection officer, who will determine the length of stay and issue an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.