The E-2 Visa for Australians and the Path to American Entrepreneurship

e2 visa for australian citizens
Patrick Findaro
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Published on 13 Oct 2023 Time to read 7 min read Last update on 23 Oct 2023

E2 Visa For Australian Citizens! In an era characterized by global connectivity and boundless innovation, aspiring entrepreneurs from around the world seek avenues to realize their business dreams in thriving markets. For Australians with a vision to establish or expand their enterprises in the United States, the E-2 Visa presents an invaluable opportunity. This specialized visa category, often hailed as the “Investor Visa,” offers a unique pathway for Australian entrepreneurs to immerse themselves in the dynamic American business landscape.

As the economic ties between Australia and the United States continue to strengthen, the E-2 Visa program stands as a testament to the mutually beneficial relationship shared by these two nations. This article aims to shed light on the nuances of the E-2 Visa, its eligibility criteria, application process, and the myriad advantages it affords to Australian entrepreneurs.

E2 Visa For Australian Citizens - Benefits

The E2 Visa For Australian Citizens bestows a multitude of advantages upon Australian entrepreneurs seeking to establish a presence in the United States. Firstly, it offers the freedom to operate and expand a business within the U.S. market, providing a platform for growth and exposure to a diverse customer base. Moreover, this visa category permits investors and their families to reside in the United States for an extended period, offering a unique opportunity for cultural immersion and fostering invaluable international connections. Additionally, the E-2 Visa doesn’t impose stringent capital requirements, making it accessible to a wide range of entrepreneurs, from startups to more established businesses. Perhaps most importantly, this visa is renewable indefinitely, as long as the business remains operational and meets the visa criteria, providing a stable foundation for long-term success. These combined benefits make the E-2 Visa a powerful tool for Australian entrepreneurs, offering them a clear pathway to thrive in the heart of the world’s largest economy.

How do I get an E2 visa from Australia?

Securing an E-2 Visa from Australia involves several essential steps. 

  • Ensure eligibility by being a citizen of Australia, as the E-2 Visa is specific to certain treaty countries.
  • Invest a substantial amount of capital into a U.S.-based enterprise, with no fixed minimum investment threshold.
  • Demonstrate that invested funds cover startup costs and sustain the business.
  • Gather relevant documentation: business plans, financial records, contracts, etc., to prove the venture’s viability.
  • Establish and register the business entity in the United States, navigating legal and administrative processes that vary by state and industry.
  • Prepare and submit the E-2 Visa application, providing comprehensive evidence of investment, business plan, and its substantial impact on the U.S. economy.
  • Attend an interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy in Australia.
  • Upon successful approval, the E-2 Visa will be granted, allowing entrepreneurs and their families to begin their American business journey.
  • Seek guidance from immigration experts or legal counsel to navigate this process effectively.

How long does it take to get an E2 visa from Australia?

Securing an E-2 visa involves a process that varies in duration depending on several factors, particularly the location of the Australian investor. For those already present in the United States, the average processing time hovers around five months. However, for individuals seeking expedited processing, a premium processing option is available, promising a swift turnaround from the USCIS of 15 days for an additional fee of $2,500. Conversely, for applicants outside the U.S., the processing time through a consulate can range from as little as two weeks to a maximum of four months. It’s worth noting that these timelines are approximate and subject to change based on various factors, including the volume of applications and any potential procedural adjustments. Therefore, applicants are advised to stay updated with the latest information from the relevant authorities to plan their visa application process effectively.

Why clients choose Visa Franchise?

Since our inception in 2015, Visa Franchise has been instrumental in turning the aspirations of over 1,200 immigrants from 65+ countries into tangible success stories. Together, our clients have generated a staggering 2,500 American jobs, with numerous businesses achieving revenue milestones exceeding $1 million. In an industry characterized by transience, Visa Franchise stands as a steadfast partner, annually assisting more than 100 clients. This starkly contrasts with the majority of brokers who only handle a handful of E-2 visa cases each year.

Our unwavering dedication to prioritizing client needs and our specialization in facilitating U.S. legal residency through business opportunities truly distinguishes Visa Franchise in the realm of E2 Visa Business Brokers. We take immense pride in not only helping foreigners identify their ideal American franchise, but also in being a part of the journey towards realizing their dreams. Recognizing the potential challenges of relocating to a foreign country, particularly for non-native English speakers, we go the extra mile to ensure the process is seamless and ultimately, highly rewarding.

E2 Visa Minimum Investment

While there isn’t a fixed threshold mandated by U.S. authorities, it’s imperative to demonstrate a substantial commitment to the venture. Based on our extensive experience and industry insights, we highly recommend a minimum investment of $100,000. This amount not only showcases a significant dedication to the enterprise but also enhances the likelihood of a successful visa application.

Can Australian citizens get green card in the USA?

Yes, Australian citizens can apply for a green card, also known as lawful permanent residence, in the United States. There are several pathways available for Australians to obtain a green card. One common route is through family sponsorship, where a close relative who is a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident can petition on their behalf. Employment-based options are also viable, particularly for individuals with specialized skills or those who secure job offers from U.S. employers.

Additionally, investors and entrepreneurs may explore avenues like the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. It’s important to note that each pathway has its own set of eligibility criteria, application process, and waiting times. Consulting with immigration experts or legal professionals is highly recommended to navigate the complexities of the green card application process effectively.

Furthermore, Australian citizens may also consider the EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) as an option for obtaining a green card in the United States. This category is designed for individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional skills in their field, and who can demonstrate that their presence in the U.S. is in the national interest. The NIW allows qualified applicants to bypass the labor certification process, streamlining their path to permanent residency. 

Navigating Economic Waves: E-2 Visa Trends (2019-2022)

The rollercoaster ride of E-2 visa issuances from 2019 to 2022 paints a fascinating picture of fluctuating economic tides and global shifts. In 2019, a robust 517 E-2 visas were issued, a testament to the allure of the American dream for entrepreneurs and investors worldwide.

However, the following year saw a surprising dip, with only 248 visas granted, hinting at the uncertain times that lay ahead. The pandemic-ridden year of 2021 continued this trend, with 155 brave individuals taking the plunge into the U.S. market.

Yet, hope emerged on the horizon in 2022, as 333 E-2 visas were granted, indicating a revival in confidence and a resurgence of faith in American business prospects. This four-year journey exemplifies the dynamic nature of global economies and the resilient spirit of those who dare to pursue their dreams in the land of opportunity.

e2 visa for australian citizens

Conclusion

In conclusion, the E-2 Visa offers a golden opportunity for Australian entrepreneurs to thrive in the dynamic American business landscape. With benefits ranging from operational freedom and cultural immersion to flexible capital requirements and indefinite renewability, it stands as a powerful tool for realizing business aspirations in the U.S. Navigating the application process involves crucial steps, from meeting eligibility criteria to substantial investments and thorough documentation. Timelines for securing the E-2 Visa vary based on location, with expedited options available for those in the U.S. or willing to invest in premium processing.

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Mentioned visas

EB2-NIW (green card)

An employment-based visa intended for those who either have an advanced degrees or exceptional ability

Get NIW information

E2 Visa

An employment-based visa intended for those who either have an advanced degrees or exceptional ability

Access E-2 visa details