The E-2 visa allows foreign investors and their families to live and work freely in the United States, representing one of the earliest visa types in the country. The origin of the E-2 visa is rooted in treaties between the United States and specific nations, namely the Treaty of Friendship, Commerce, and Navigation. The first of these treaties was signed with United Kingdom in 1815, aimed at fostering trade between the two nations, which had previously been at war.

With the enactment of the Immigration and Nationality Act in 1924, the E Visa category was incorporated into United States law, introducing the E-1 Treaty Trader category to facilitate trade by foreign merchants. The attraction of substantial foreign investment led to the creation of the E-2 Treaty Investor category in the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, thereby incorporating the E-2 Visa into law.

Applicants who meet one of the following conditions are eligible to apply for the E-2 Visa:

1. Primary investor;
2. Individuals employed by companies owned by nationals of treaty countries, holding executive, managerial, or roles requiring essential skills for the company’s successful operation. Workers with ordinary skills or lacking specialized skills are ineligible.

※Note that a detailed explanation may be required, justifying why the applicant’s skills are indispensable to the company’s operations in the United States, or explaining why the applicant qualifies for managerial or executive positions.

For E-2 Visa holders, their spouses, and unmarried children under the age of 21 may apply for derivative E Visas, allowing them to accompany or join their spouse or parent. When applying for an E Visa, they are not required to hold the same nationality as the principal applicant.

The E-2 Visa is a non-immigrant visa, and holders cannot convert to a green card status. However, dependents may apply for work authorization upon obtaining permission from DHS-USCIS after arriving in the United States.

Kaizen offers a service for E-2 Visa applications, including complete business registration in the United States, establishment of corporate and personal bank accounts, document collection, submission of the I-129 application for E-2 approval, preparation for visa application and interview, submission of any necessary documents for visa extension, and applying for a visa at a United States consulate post-I-129 approval. If you require our services, please contact our professional consultants.

See also：
United States – E-2 Non-immigrant Visa (For Non-Mainland China and Hong Kong Citizens) Application Procedures and Fees