Dallas E-2 Visa Lawyer
The US has entered into numerous bilateral treaty agreements with other countries, which serve to bolster the economies of both nations, boost commerce, and enhance cooperation. To further these purposes, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) established the E-2 visa for treaty investors. Those that qualify can gain status as a temporary, nonimmigrant worker, and eligible employees of treaty investors may also obtain an E-2 visa.
Still, it is one thing to qualify and an entirely different matter to get USCIS approval for a treaty investor visa. The application process and rules can be overwhelming, so allow BBA Immigration to tackle the burdens. We coordinate efforts between officials in the US and in the home country, ensuring that errors do not stand in the way. Please contact us today to schedule a consultation. A Dallas E-2 Visa lawyer can provide personalized advice, and an overview of the laws is also useful.
Summary of USCIS E-2 Visa Rules
This nonimmigrant classification is dedicated to those foreign nationals who invest considerable capital in a US business. The person must be a national of a country that has a treaty with the US or another qualifying international agreement. In addition, the individual must:
- Have invested or be currently investing a substantial amount of capital;
- The investment must be supporting a bona fide, US-based enterprise; and,
- Enter the US solely to develop the business, which is evidenced by having at least 50 percent ownership or management control.
Steps for E-2 Visa Applications
The nature of the petition process depends upon where the relevant parties are located at the time. An individual in the US under a lawful nonimmigrant status must apply for change of status to E-2. Someone physically outside the US must get their visa abroad and then present it at the port of entry.
Upon receiving the E-2 visa, the initial period of stay is 2 years. A treaty investor may request an extension of stay in increments of 2 years, for an unlimited number of stays.
Challenges with E-2 Visas
Our Dallas E-2 lawyers at BBA Immigration will advise you on the following:
- An E-2 visa application must be accompanied by information proving eligibility, which will typically require extensive financial documents.
- E-2 visa holders can only work at activities as designated by the initial application.
- Organizational changes, such as a merger or acquisition, could require reporting to USCIS.
- When the treaty investor is outside the US, it is important to coordinate efforts abroad. The individual will need all documentation in order when arrival at the port of entry.
Get Legal Help from a Dallas E-2 Attorney
At BBA Immigration, our firm’s primary practice area is visas and immigration matters. We have in-depth knowledge of the process for getting a treaty investor visa and the experience needed to overcome challenges. Please contact our office to set up a consultation with a skilled Texas E-2 lawyer. We can advise you on what to expect with the process once we review your unique situation.
