Can the E-2 visa be partially financed by a local partner?

The question of partial financing by a local partner is quite relevant for those considering the E-2 visa, which is intended for investors from countries with trade treaties with the United States. This visa requires the investor to prove having made a substantial investment and that the funds are indeed ‘at risk’ in the business, so that the capital is committed to the success of the enterprise.

In general, the E-2 allows the company’s capital structure to be composed of different sources, including contributions from local partners. However, for the visa to be granted, it is essential that the applicant investor maintains operational and ideological control of the business. This means that, although it is possible to count on contributions from partners or local investors, the investor applying for the visa must have the majority participation or, at least, hold decision-making authority in business management.

Furthermore, it is fundamental that all applied funds are properly proven and that it is understood that the total amount invested does not necessarily have to come entirely from the foreign investor’s personal savings. Still, the available origin of the resources, even if coming from a local partner, must be aligned with the principles of ‘at risk’ investment required by the program. Immigration officers examine the company’s structure in detail to ensure that the invested capital is genuinely allocated to the business and that the investor has the capacity to independently conduct its operations.

It is always important to emphasize the relevance of strictly following the United States immigration laws and seeking reliable information. Consulting specialists or companies experienced in the field helps avoid mistakes and falling into traps of miracle promises or marketing campaigns that assure results without proper case-by-case analysis.

In summary, partial financing by a local partner can be viable as long as the investor maintains control of the business and meets the specified requirements for ‘at risk’ investment. Each case, however, must be analyzed individually to ensure that all E-2 visa criteria are met.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.