Explore the E-2 visa step by step, traveling along the road from idea to arrival. At each stop, answer one question. At the end you get an E-2 readiness summary you can share, print or send to us for review.
Also available in: Türkçe · Español · Português · العربية · 中文
The E-2 treaty investor visa lets a citizen of a treaty country live in the U.S. to develop and direct a business in which they have invested a substantial amount of capital. It is a nonimmigrant visa: it can be renewed as long as the business qualifies, but it does not lead to a green card by itself.
The law sets no minimum. Consular officers apply a proportionality test: the investment must be substantial compared with the total cost of the business, and a smaller business usually needs a higher share of its cost invested. The funds must be at risk and irrevocably committed, and their lawful source must be documented.
The plan is where most E-2 cases are won or lost. It must show that the business is real and operating, that it will be more than marginal within 5 years, and that the investor will develop and direct it. Our guide on how to prepare an E-2 business plan walks through each section.
There is no fixed minimum. The investment must be substantial in proportion to the cost of the business, committed and at risk, and from a documented lawful source.
Yes. Türkiye has been an E-2 treaty country since May 18, 1990. For Turkish citizens, E-2 visas are issued for up to 60 months with multiple entries and no issuance fee.
Yes. Spouses in E-2 status are considered employment authorized incident to status, so they can work without a separate work permit in most cases.
Not by itself. The E-2 is a nonimmigrant visa that requires an intent to leave when your status ends. A green card needs a separate basis, such as EB-5, EB-2 NIW or a family petition.
A calculator gives an estimate. We review your full history, including trips, prior status and any complications, before you file.
Ozek Law Firm, LLC · Tolga Ozek, Attorney at Law
4500 East West Highway, Suite 150, Bethesda, MD 20814
+1 (202) 854-8545 · info@ozeklaw.com · ozeklaw.com/contact
Admitted in Maryland, New York and Washington, D.C.; federal immigration practice throughout the United States. Consultations in English, Turkish, Spanish and Swedish; interpreters for other languages.
This page is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Attorney Advertising. Results are estimates based on the dates you enter and the rules described on this page as of September 25, 2026. They do not cover every exception, and USCIS or the consulate makes the final decision. No attorney can guarantee a result.
