E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Granted for person who bought a Quiznos
The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is a premier gateway for foreign entrepreneurs from treaty countries to establish and manage businesses in the United States. Unlike other categories, the E-2 offers unlimited renewals, provided the enterprise remains operational and profitable.
Key approval factors include a substantial investment—typically $100,000+—that is “at risk” and committed to a real, active enterprise. Successful applicants demonstrate that their business is non-marginal, meaning it creates jobs and contributes significantly to the U.S. economy.
Can an approved E-2 visa lead to a green card? — short answer and realistic routes
Short answer: No — the E-2 visa is a nonimmigrant treaty investor classification and offers no automatic path to permanent residence. However, E-2 holders can pursue separate immigrant routes (family-based petitions, employer sponsorship, EB-5, EB-2 NIW, etc.) that can lead to a green card.
Common immigrant routes for E-2 holders
- Family-based: marriage to a U.S. citizen (immediate relative) is often the fastest route to a green card.
- Employer sponsorship: PERM labor certification → I-140 (EB-2/EB-3) and then adjustment or consular processing.
- EB-5: convert investment strategy to meet EB-5 thresholds to obtain conditional lawful permanent residence and later remove conditions.
- EB-2 NIW: self-petition for exceptional professionals where a national-interest showing is possible.
Key cautions
- Maintain lawful E-2 status while immigrant petitions proceed.
- Be mindful that E-2 does not permit guaranteed dual intent — coordinate travel and consular steps with counsel.
- Visa numbers and priority dates affect timing for most employment and some family routes.
Contact us for an E-2 to Green Card strategic audit — we’ll map the fastest viable route, prepare the needed documentation, and manage status and travel risks throughout the process.