Florida is not only a place where our friends from abroad come to visit theme parks and resorts, but to invest in local businesses as well. The E-2 Visa allows foreigners interested in purchasing a U.S. business to reside in our country legally so long as the foreign investors continue to meet the necessary criteria.
In order to acquire an E-2 Visa, the applicant must hail from one of the countries that maintains a trade treaty with the U.S. The investor also must obtain at least 50 percent ownership in a U.S. business and make a significant investment of his own funds from overseas in the amount probably equivalent to $200,000.00 U.S. dollar under current standards. The business can either be an existing company or franchise.
The investment into the business must be significant and at risk of loss should the business fail. You must also demonstrate your company's future ability to hire employees and generate revenue to support you. You must be employed as an executive supervisor if you are not the principal investor. While in the U.S. on an E-2 Visa you are only penuitted to work for the company in which you have invested.
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may receive derivative visas so they may live with you in the U.S.. Your children may also attend American schools while your spouse can apply for authorization to work in outside employment while in the U.S.
In order to obtain an E-2 Visa you must complete and submit an application to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services or U.S. Embassy or consulate in your home country. A numerous amount of documentation will be needed such as annual reports, financial statements, articles of incorporation, by-laws, directors' minutes, operating agreements, evidence of ownership, shareholder agreements, partnership or joint venture agreements, deeds or leases, and more. Once an E-2 Visa is submitted, the processing time is approximately three to four months, expedited premiums are also available.
You will also have to attend a personal interview. During this time, you will have to be well prepared to support the information in your application and provide convincing evidence as to why you should receive the E-2 Visa. A correct business plan and estimated profit and loss information on your proposed U.S. business will be scrutinized. The E-2 Visa is good for two (2) years. A renewal of your visa to remain in the U.S. and manage your business is required periodically.
Please consider hiring an experienced lawyer who will guide you through the process by gathering supporting documentation, completing your application, and defending your case before an immigration official. Competent legal representation will increase your chances of approval, minimize delays, and protect your financial investment.
Mr. Andrew Barclay, a nine year Florida resident who comes from Great Britain, is employed by Law Offices of Grace Anne Glavin as a paralegal assistant, or Legal Executive as is commonly referred to in Europe, to first hand assist Attorney Glavin to interview all potential immigration clients and to assist in the application preparation with supporting documentation.
