What is E-2
E-2 (Treaty Investor) is a nonimmigrant visa for citizens of countries that have a qualifying treaty with the US. Ukraine is on this list. The visa allows you to live in the US and to develop and personally direct the business you have invested in.
Main requirements
- Citizenship of a treaty country (including Ukraine);
- A substantial investment in a real US business — the funds must already be invested or irrevocably committed;
- Lawful source of the invested funds;
- The business must be a real, active enterprise and not “marginal” — it must generate more than just a living for your family;
- You own at least 50% of the business or control it, and you are coming to direct it.
The law does not set a minimum investment amount — it must be “substantial” relative to the cost of the particular business.
Advantages of E-2
- The visa can be renewed as long as the business operates and the requirements are met;
- Your spouse can work in the US;
- Children under 21 can attend US schools;
- You can buy an existing business or start a new one.
E-2 is not a Green Card in itself. But for many clients it becomes the first step and later a foundation for immigrant categories.
How we help
- Assessment of your goals, budget and business idea.
- Investment structure and documenting the source of funds.
- Document package and preparation for the consular interview.
Why Veritas does not write business plans. An E-2 business plan is a professional financial and analytical document: market research, a financial model and a 5-year forecast, a hiring plan and a justification for every number. Consular officers scrutinize it closely, so it should be prepared by business-planning specialists who work with financial models and E-2 requirements every day. We deliberately do not take on this work so that every part of your case is done by professionals in their field. At the same time, you are not left on your own: we will help you find vetted business-planning experts and manage all processes — so that the business plan, the investment structure and the document package work together as one strong case.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum investment for E-2?
There is no fixed minimum. The investment must be substantial relative to the cost of the business and sufficient to launch it and operate it successfully.
Does E-2 lead to a Green Card?
No, E-2 is a nonimmigrant visa. However, it can be a step toward other categories, such as EB-1C, EB-2 NIW or EB-5.
The information on this page is general in nature and is not legal advice. Veritas Immigration is a consulting company, not a law firm. Decisions on petitions are made by USCIS; no outcome is guaranteed.