Orlando E-2 Visa Attorney

Helping Foreign Investors & Entrepreneurs in Orlando, FL

If you're an investor or entrepreneur looking to establish or expand your business in the United States, the E-2 visa offers a unique opportunity. At Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., our experienced Orlando E-2 visa lawyers are dedicated to helping investors navigate the complex E-2 visa process, offering clear guidance and expert representation. Our firm is committed to providing personalized legal support to investors in Orlando, FL, and beyond.

Call (407) 630-8455 or contact us online today to request a consultation.

What is an E-2 Visa?

The E-2 visa, or the Treaty Investor Visa, is a non-immigrant visa that allows nationals of certain countries with a U.S. treaty of commerce to enter and work in the United States through a substantial investment in a U.S.-based business. Unlike other visa categories, the E-2 visa is specifically designed to encourage investment by allowing foreign investors and entrepreneurs to actively direct and develop their U.S.-based enterprises.

The E-2 visa offers several benefits for investors:

• Active Involvement: The visa allows the investor to be actively involved in their business operations within the U.S.
• Family Access: The E-2 visa holder’s spouse and minor children may also apply for dependent visas to live in the U.S., with the spouse eligible for work authorization.
• Renewable Status: The E-2 visa can be renewed indefinitely, provided that the business remains operational and continues to meet the visa’s requirements.
• Path to Permanent Residency: Although the E-2 is a non-immigrant visa, it may open avenues for future residency options.

Eligibility for E-2 Visa

To qualify for an E-2 visa, both the applicant and the investment must meet specific criteria. The primary eligibility requirements for an E-2 visa include:

• Nationality: The applicant must be a citizen of a country that maintains a qualifying treaty with the United States. The U.S. Department of State publishes a list of countries eligible for the E-2 visa, which includes nations such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, and Australia, among others.
• Investment: The applicant must make a substantial investment in a U.S.-based enterprise. Although the exact dollar amount is not specified, a “substantial” investment generally refers to an amount sufficient to ensure the success of the enterprise. This amount can vary depending on the nature of the business, with higher-risk industries requiring larger investments.
• Active Participation: E-2 visa applicants must demonstrate an active and operational role in the business, meaning they are not simply passive investors but are directly involved in the management and growth of the enterprise.
• Legitimate Source of Funds: The investment funds must come from a legitimate source and be at risk in the commercial sense. The applicant must be able to demonstrate that the funds were lawfully obtained.
• Business Viability: The enterprise must have a real, operating business and not be merely speculative or marginal. The business should generate enough revenue to provide for the investor and any family members without relying on a supplemental income source.
• Intention to Depart: Although the E-2 visa can be renewed indefinitely, it is still a non-immigrant visa. The applicant must have the intention to leave the United States when their E-2 status ends.

How to Get an E-2 Visa

The E-2 visa application process involves careful planning and thorough documentation. The steps to obtain an E-2 visa typically include:

1. Investment Planning and Business Preparation: Before applying, it’s essential to have a business plan that outlines the purpose and operational scope of the enterprise. Our attorneys can help create a detailed, comprehensive business plan that meets U.S. immigration standards and highlights the potential for growth and job creation.
2. Gathering Required Documentation: E-2 visa applications require extensive documentation, including proof of the investment, evidence of lawful source of funds, and documents showing the business’s operational status. Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. assists in gathering, organizing, and reviewing all required paperwork to avoid any delays or complications.
3. Filing the Application: Once the documentation is in place, we submit the E-2 visa application to the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate. This process involves filing forms such as the DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application) and supporting documentation that evidences the investment’s eligibility under E-2 requirements.
4. Interview at U.S. Embassy or Consulate: E-2 applicants are required to attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country. Our Orlando E-2 visa lawyers provide clients with preparation for the interview, including guidance on likely questions and ensuring all necessary information is communicated clearly and effectively.
5. Approval and Entry to the U.S.: If approved, the E-2 visa allows the investor to enter the U.S. and begin working in their business. The visa is usually valid for an initial period of up to two years and can be renewed if the business continues to operate successfully.
6. Extensions and Compliance: As an E-2 visa holder, it is crucial to maintain compliance with U.S. immigration laws and ensure the continued operation of the business. Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. offers ongoing legal support to help clients maintain their E-2 status and explore any additional immigration options.

Why Choose Us?

Choosing the right legal partner is critical when applying for an E-2 visa. At Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., our experienced team of Orlando E-2 visa lawyers is dedicated to supporting foreign investors with personalized, results-driven representation. Here’s what sets us apart:

• In-Depth Knowledge: Our attorneys have extensive experience with E-2 visa cases and understand the complexities of immigration law.
• Comprehensive Support: We provide end-to-end assistance, from planning your investment to gathering documentation and representing you through the application process.
• Local Expertise: As a law firm based in Orlando, FL, we understand the local business environment and can provide insights that are beneficial for investors entering the Orlando market.
• Commitment to Clients: We prioritize our clients’ goals and work tirelessly to help them achieve their U.S. business objectives.

Contact us today at (407) 630-8455 to let our firm get started on your visa application!