Do I need to prove managerial experience for the E-2?

For the principal investor, the E-2 generally does not include an explicit requirement to demonstrate managerial experience. The visa focuses on the nature of the investment, its substantiality, and the ability of the enterprise to operate and create jobs. What typically matters most is showing that you will have control and active involvement in running the business.

The situation shifts somewhat depending on your role:

• Investor who controls the business: the essential element is a real investment and active control; managerial experience helps, but it is not a strict requirement.
• Employee or executive of the business: when the E-2 is sought for someone designated to a supervisory or specially qualified position, managerial skills or specialized expertise do tend to carry more weight in justifying the role.

Even without a rigid rule for the investor, demonstrating that you are capable of running the business strengthens the petition. Because criteria are assessed on a case-by-case basis, it is worth confirming the current requirements with USCIS and the Department of State and reviewing your profile with a qualified professional.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

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.