In order to qualify for an E2 visa, the applicant must invest a “substantial” amount of money into the business. The term “substantial” is subjective, but it is understood that the more money you invest in your business, the better your chances are of obtaining an E2 visa. The investment required to obtain an E2 visa for your business should at least cover:
1. The building: security deposit and first three months’ rent –or- The amount you paid for the building/land if you purchased the building/land
2. Computers and office equipment
3. Initial stock or merchandise or supplies
4. Initial marketing costs (website design, flyers, ads, etc.)
5. Attorneys’ fees
6. CPA/Accountant fees
7. And much more depending on the nature of your business.
The purpose of your business (what your business does) is essential to determining the amount of investment required to obtain an E2 visa for a business in Florida. For example, a hair salon or pet grooming shop will require less of an investment than a restaurant, which will both require less of an investment than a service business.
In order to qualify for an E2 visa for a business in Florida, your business must not be “marginal.” You should be able to hire full-time employees other than your family members and that you have a plan to grow the business in the future. One purpose of the E2 visa treaties is to grow the economy for the country, so this stipulation is to ensure that the business will contribute to the economy and not just benefit the E2 visa applicant(s) and their family.
If you are interested in seeing if your qualify for an E2 visa for a business in Florida or anywhere else in the United States, then contact Boyer Law Firm’s immigration attorneys today to see how we can help you.
