Published on 08/20/2025

Are you thinking about living and working in the USA? Then the  E-2 Treaty Investor Visamight be the fastest and most cost-effective option for you.  

Here you will learn what the E-2 visa is, what requirements you have to meet, and why it is the most attractive option for many.

1. The Basics: What is the E-2 Visa?

The E-2 visa is a  non-immigrant visa  for investors. It allows you to start or buy a company in the USA and run it. Important to note is that there is no direct or automatic path to a green card. However, that does not mean that you cannot apply for a green card later; there is simply no fixed mechanism provided for that.

Important Note:  Every visa application is individual and considered in its entirety. This article does not constitute legal advice.

2. Requirements: Who Can Apply for an E-2 Visa?

There are some key requirements you must fulfill to get an E-2 visa:

1. Nationality:  The most important requirement is that you hold the citizenship of a country that has a corresponding trade treaty with the USA (a "treaty"). Fortunately, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland are included. Note, however, that the maximum visa validity varies depending on nationality (e.g., 60 months for Germans and Austrians, 48 months for Swiss citizens).
2. Investment:  You must make a  "substantial" investment  in a U.S. company. Important: there is  no set minimum investment amount. The investment must be made before the application or the investment process must be so advanced that the application is considered "at risk."
3. Management of the Company:  You must be able to develop and direct the company. This generally requires you to hold at least 50% of the company shares.
4. No Marginal Investment:  The investment must not be "marginal." That means the company must generate more than just enough to support you and your family. It should have the potential to stimulate the U.S. economy and ideally create jobs.

3. Advantages: Why the E-2 Visa Is So Attractive

Compared to other visa categories, such as the  EB-5 visa  (which requires a minimum investment of 800,000 to 1,050,000 USD and the creation of 10 full-time jobs), the E-2 visa offers significant advantages:

• No Minimum Investment Amount:  You don't have to invest millions. The amount only needs to be "substantial" or "considerable" relative to the company.
• No Sponsor Needed:  You are your own sponsor and thus independent of an employer.
• Long Validity Period:  The visa is issued for up to five years depending on nationality and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the requirements are met.
• Benefits for the Family:  Spouses and children under 21 also receive an E-2 visa. Since January 2022, your spouse is even allowed to work freely in the US labor market without needing a separate work permit.
• Fast Processing:  Ideally, you can receive your visa within 90 to 120 days. It usually does not take longer than six months, though this depends on multiple factors.

Conclusion

In summary, the E-2 visa is one of the fastest and most affordable ways for citizens of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland to live and work in the USA. It gives you the freedom to run your own business without fixed minimum investments or employer ties. Although it is a non-immigrant visa, it is an excellent starting point for your life in the United States.

Want to know more?

We are happy to help you meet the requirements for the E-2 visa and submit a strong application. Download our free guide or book a free initial consultation to discuss your plans with us. We look forward to hearing from you!