The E-2 visa is one of the most flexible of all of the temporary visas. Although initially issued for 2-5 years, it is commonly renewed for 5 years every time you apply for renewal. Is there a limit to the number of renewals? Absolutely not. That means that so long as you and your business continue to satisfy the requirements laid down by the U.S. Government, you can continue to stay in the United States.
What’s more, every time you leave the United States under a current and valid E-2 visa, the U.S. Immigration officials at your U.S. airport of entry are required (by way of internal advisory) to issue you an entry stamp for two years at a time even if there are only a few days left on your visa.
If the spouse of the investor is not a principal investor in the business, he/she is entitled to apply for a general work permit enabling him or her to work and provide an additional income stream.
The majority of E-2 investors purchase an already running business as opposed to setting up a business.
Purchasing an ongoing business has several advantages over setting one up anew.
The main advantage is that it is possible to assess and analyze the past performance of the business and confirm that it has been financially vibrant in the recent past and thus has a good track record and consequently will continue to thrive post-purchase.
We have found time and again that the secret behind a sustained stay in the U.S. on an E-2 visa is to purchase a business that is not only going to be able to support the investor and his accompanying family members, but also will be able to generate additional income.
Finding the right business is the main hurdle. We as a law firm have over the years established links with competent business brokers across the United States who can and will help to find the right business for you.
We can also at your request get the purchasing entity incorporated and obtain a FEIN number.
So if you wish to purchase a business in the United States then contact us immediately so that we can advise what needs to be done next.