Can E2 visa holders apply for permanent residency (green card)?
Can E2 visa holders apply for permanent residency
The E2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to invest in and manage a business in the United States. While it does not provide a direct pathway to permanent residency or a green card, E2 visa holders may explore other avenues to obtain permanent residency if they meet the eligibility criteria of other immigrant visa categories.
One such option is the Employment-Based Fifth Preference (EB-5) immigrant visa program. The EB-5 program is designed for foreign investors who make a qualifying investment in a new commercial enterprise that creates or preserves a certain number of full-time jobs for U.S. workers. By investing a specific amount of capital in a designated area, usually a targeted employment area, EB-5 investors can potentially apply for a green card and obtain permanent residency.
Get an E2 Visa holders who wish to transition to the EB-5 program would need to meet the eligibility requirements and make a qualifying investment. The investment amount for EB-5 varies depending on whether the investment is made in a targeted employment area or a non-targeted employment area. Generally, the minimum investment amount is $1.8 million, but it can be reduced to $900,000 if the investment is made in a targeted employment area.
Can E2 visa holders apply for permanent residency (green card)?
In addition to the investment requirement, EB-5 applicants must demonstrate that their investment has created or preserved at least ten full-time jobs for qualifying U.S. workers within a specific time frame. The EB-5 program offers a direct investment option, where the investor establishes and manages their own business, or a regional center option, where the investment is made in a USCIS-approved regional center that manages multiple projects.
Transitioning from an E2 visa to an EB-5 visa requires careful planning and consideration. It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney who specializes in EB-5 immigration to understand the specific requirements, process, and potential risks associated with the transition.
Alternatively, E2 visa holders may explore other employment-based immigrant visa categories that align with their qualifications and meet the eligibility criteria. For example, they may qualify for an employment-based immigrant visa in categories such as EB-1 (Extraordinary Ability), EB-2 (Advanced Degree), or EB-3 (Skilled Worker).
Each employment-based immigrant visa category has its own specific requirements, such as demonstrating extraordinary ability in a specific field, obtaining a job offer from a U.S. employer, or having an employer sponsor the visa application. Meeting these requirements can potentially lead to permanent residency through the green card process.
It is important to note that transitioning from an E2 visa to permanent residency requires careful consideration and planning. Engaging with an experienced immigration attorney can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the process, ensuring that all eligibility criteria are met and the appropriate steps are taken to maximize the chances of obtaining permanent residency.
In conclusion, while the E2 visa does not provide a direct pathway to permanent residency or a green card, E2 visa holders can explore other immigration options, such as the EB-5 immigrant visa or other employment-based immigrant visa categories. Transitioning to permanent residency requires meeting the specific eligibility requirements and adhering to the processes of the chosen visa category. Seeking professional guidance from an immigration attorney is crucial to navigate the complexities of the immigration system and increase the chances of a successful transition to permanent residency.