The E-2 visa is an option for investors who wish to develop and manage their businesses in the United States, but the issue of control and corporate structure can be a delicate matter. In general terms, the investor applying for the E-2 visa needs to demonstrate substantial control over the company, which is an essential requirement in the evaluation of the application.
In a partnership composed of two partners each holding equal 50% shares, there may be a challenge in proving that one of the investors exercises the necessary control for the operation of the company. Typically, the authority to conduct and make strategic decisions is fundamental for visa granting.
If the corporate structure does not clearly demonstrate which partner – or how both partners – will have effective managerial power and the capacity to conduct business, the application may be considered more complex by immigration authorities.
It is important to note that the E-2 visa allows more than one investor to participate, provided each one can prove that their participation is active and that the invested funds are committed to the operation and development of the business.
Thus, if the two partners with 50% shares can structure the company so that specific management attributes, operational authority, or clear roles are assigned to each in a way that meets the control requirements, it may be possible to proceed with the E-2 route. However, this setup requires special care in drafting the business plan and defining each partner’s responsibilities.
It is always recommended to strictly observe United States immigration laws and seek guidance from professionals specialized in the area. This way, it is possible to avoid risks and guard against misleading information and guarantees of results that frequently circulate in marketing campaigns.
Each case has particularities that can significantly influence the outcome of an application. Always remember to analyze all details with specialized consultancy that can offer personalized guidance based on the concrete situation in order to ensure strict compliance with legal requirements.
Learn more about E-2
- Type
- Non-immigrant
- Initial validity
- 2-5 years
- Extension
- Unlimited (2 years each)
- Processing
- 1-4 months
About the author
Victoria Harper
Editor-in-Chief
As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.