E2 Visa Franchise: Your Path to Entrepreneurial Success

Name:(Required)

Email: (Required)

Phone: (Required)

Select your Country

My question: (Required)

E2 Visa Franchise: Your Path to Entrepreneurial Success

What is E2 Visa E2 Visa FAQs List of E2 Treaty Investor Countries E2 Visa Costs and Fees E2 Visa requirements E2 Visa Process E-2 Visa Processing Time E2 Visa Renewal

E2 Visa defined

An E-2 Work Visa is a non-immigrant visa which allows a foreign investor or business owner from treaty countries to make a substantial investment in a U.S. enterprise. Its primary purpose is to encourage economic interaction and development between the U.S. and the treaty countries.
A treaty country is a country that maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation with the U.S., or with which the U.S. maintains a qualifying international agreement, or which has been designated as qualified by law.
However, the E2 Visa is not a direct path towards a lawful permanent residence, but it can be extended indefinitely as long as the business meets the requirements.

E2 Franchise Businesses

Before getting into the why of a franchise, we must first define what's a franchise. A franchise is a legal and commercial relationship between the owner fo the trademark and an individual who wants to use the identification in a business. A franchisee is someone who sells goods or services supplied by the franchisor or that meet the franchiser's standards to commercial customers.
Franchise businesses are a popular choice for E2 foreign entrepreneurs due to its established business model, operational strategies and franchise brand recognition. Immigration officials view franchises favorable due to its lower possibility of failure compared to a startup or an independent business.
A franchise owner can also receive extensive training and ongoing support from the franchisor, which is beneficial for foreign investors who are fairly new in business ownership.

Benefits of Franchises for an E2 Visa

One of the advantages of a franchise is that it helps streamline and simplify the E2 Visa process. It is also provides a flexible way to gain entry in the U.S. Other than that, here are additional advantages of an E2 Visa franchise:

Legally work in your own business

When you start a franchise business, it allows you to conduct your own business legally in the U.S. as you'll have at least a partial ownership.

It's important to take note that one of the requirements in an E2 Visa is that you must be able to show proof that you'll be developing and directing the E2 business by either demonstrating that you have at least 50% ownership of the enterprise or that you have significant control through a management position. This is why you should play a vital role in the franchise business.

Upon submission of your application, you will need to list down the owners of the franchise you'll be starting and have them add their signatures. This will show that you have a significant and controlling interest in the business.

Receive support for your franchise business

If you're fairly new with owning a business, you might be scared of starting your own business. Starting a new company by your own would mean you need to manage all the paperwork and create the business plan.

If you decide to start a franchise business instead, you can receive help and support from the company providing the franchise.

A franchise consultant can also help you with the information on the required minimum investment for franchises or should you need any assistance on being a franchise owner.

Established franchise model and brand recognition

When you invest in a franchise, it also comes with proven business models, and operational and marketing strategies which can increase the success of the business.

Moreover, if you invest in a well-known franchise business which can be prove your credibility during your visa application as the immigration officials recognize the brand and see it as a legitimate enterprise.

Minimum investment funds not required

The cost of E-2 Visa includes the application fees, legal fees, and most importantly the capital investment you would need to make into a U.S. enterprise.

However, the greatest advantage of an E2 Visa is that it doesn't have a set minimum investment amount required. This means that if you have limited funding, you still have a good chance of qualifying for entry in the U.S. It only requires that you must invest substantial amount of money to successfully launch a non-marginal business.

Spouse can work on your franchise

If you have a spouse, they can accompany you to the U.S. and help you run the new business without the need anymore of an Employment Authorization Document.

The validity of your spouse's visa is the same as your E2 Visa, and they may also file an extension together with you once the validity has reached its end.

Children can attend school of their choice

Your unmarried children under the age of 21 can also accompany you to the U.S. and study in the country. They can attend any school of their choice. Usually, children must file an F-1 Visa but this only allows them to attend a specific school. An E2 Dependent Visa gives them a wide range of options for schools.

Stay indefinitely in the U.S.

Foreign investors initially receive a 2-year validity period on their visa. Once their visa expires, they may extend it indefinitely as long as they still meet the requirements.

Travel freely in the U.S. and abroad

As an E2 Visa holder, you are allowed to leave and return to the U.S. as you please so long your visa remains valid. You are even allowed to live outside the U.S. for an indefinite amount of time, if so you wish.

Study in a U.S. University or College

Once you're in the U.S., you might be interested in studying. While generally, investors are not focused on getting education, you are still permitted to study while living in the U.S.

You are not, however, allowed to join a full-length college program due to the main interest of your visa, which is the business franchise. After all, it's required that you direct and develop the business.

Faster processing times

The E2 Visa process is much faster compared to other visas. Compared to an EB-5 Visa, the E2 Visa doesn't have limitations on how many visas are issued each year.

However, this still would depend on the workload of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

Apply for a green card

The E2 Visa doesn't give you a direct pathway to a green card, but you can apply for other visa classifications through change of status once you're in the U.S. once you have established your business.

Drawbacks of Franchises for an E2 Visa

Longer training period

There are franchises that require a long training period before the opening or final purchase of a franchise, which may delay the processing of your E2 Visa.

Separate franchise agreements

If you purchase an existing business through an escrow, it reduces the risk of delay or denial. However, with a franchise, there are separate franchise agreements and other requirements the company began franchising must meet.

Takes out some of the control from the investor

The franchisor may take some of the control during the application process as you will rely on them heavily for the relevant documents you will submit during your interview. This may consequently result to a delay in your application process.

Some franchisors require a franchisee to be a US citizen or permanent resident

There are franchisors that may require a prospective franchisee to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, which means that even if your really like the particular franchise business and you have the money to invest, you may not be able to.

Eligibility Requirements for an E2 Visa

There are several E2 Visa requirement that you must meet to be eligible:

You must be a national of a E2 treaty country. A treaty country is a country that maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation with the U.S., or with which the U.S. maintains a qualifying international agreement, or which has been designated as qualified by law;
You must invest or in the process of investing a substantial amount of funds in a genuine U.S. enterprise;
You must be entering the U.S. to develop and direct the E2 business;
Your E2 enterprise must have the capacity to generate more than enough income to provide a living for you and your family, and create jobs for qualified U.S. citizens, permanent residents or even foreign nationals with valid work authorization.
Your capital must be subject partial or total loss if the investment fails.

Business Choices for an E2 Visa

Existing Business

Aside from a franchise business, investors also have the option to buy existing businesses. You will then acquire the market and financial situation of the business, so you have to be extra diligent in making sure the business satisfies the requirements of an E2 Visa.

While the visa category itself doesn't specify the minimum business size, it still requires that you invest in a non-marginal enterprise.

Independent Business

If you already have your own business in your own country or if you have a unique business idea, you might want to establish an independent business in the U.S. Should you decide to do so, you would need to create a detailed and comprehensive business plan to be included with your application. In this case, you have to provide evidence that your investment is substantial enough to qualify for the E2 Visa.

Franchise Business

Since there are many risks and uncertainties surrounding with opening a new business in a new country, there are investors who would prefer a choice that has minimal risks in losing investment. This is why most would prefer to invest in franchises as they are already established business models.

Moreover, investors can receive support once they choose to invest in a franchise business. There are also franchise consultants who can guide you through the process of identifying and investing in franchise businesses should you need assistance with your search for your venture.

Davies & Associates have helped multiple investors to move to the U.S. through an E2 Visa. We're one of the first law firms to receive a CBI-based E2 Visa for a client. Inquire with our E2 Visa lawyers today.

FAQs

Yes, your dependent family members such as your spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 are eligible for a derivative E2 Visa. The validity period of their visa is the same as yours, and can also be extended indefinitely.

The validity of an E-2 visa depends on a reciprocity schedule. For most countries, the reciprocity schedule is 5 years, but you have to remember that for other countries, it could be 3 or 4 years or even 3 months. Regardless, of the visa validity, you will be given a period of authorized stay of 2 years in your I-94. Prior to the expiration of the 2-year period in your I-94, you need to leave the U.S. and re-enter the U.S. if your visa is still valid to get another two years. If your E2 visa has expired, you will have to apply to renew it. If you need to remain in the U.S. beyond the 2-year period, you also have the option to apply to extend your status with USCIS.

Yes, your spouse can work for your E2 franchise business without securing anymore an Employment Authorization Document. They can also work in another business or for another employer should they wish to do so.

Latest case studies

Why make Davies & Associates Your E2 Visa Lawyers

Davies & Associates has helped hundreds of families move to the United States on the E2 Visa. In fifteen years we have yet to have any E2 visa application we have prepared denied when our clients have followed our recommendations.

Our immigration attorneys were one of the first law firms to obtain a CBI-based E2 Visa for a client. We achieved this through the Grenada Citizenship by Investment Program and have also used Turkish Citizenship by Investment.

Contact Davies & Associates Offices in United States

Check all of our locations around the world.

4.8

Based on 55 reviews

review us on

Eranjan Venura Parua

a month ago

"After finding D&A through an internet search in 2020, my wife and I had several free consultations with David Cantor. Despite our initial attempt at filing for our E2 visa independently ending in failure, we decided to hire D&A for their expertise and support. Over the course of four long years, Verdie and Cristina were incredibly patient as we took our time to prepare for the E2 submission. Verdie became our E2 Attorney in 2021, and from the start, Verdie and Cristina's patience was evident. Despite our intermittent engagement over the years, they always treated us with the utmost attention. Working with Verdie and the D&A team was a pleasure; their professionalism and support were unwavering. Verdie's calm demeanor and succinct communication style made navigating the process much smoother, even during complex discussions. I wholeheartedly recommend Verdie and D&A - Davies & Associates, to anyone seeking an immigration law firm who can efficiently handle their case with precision and without unnecessary fanfare. Their ability to get things done speaks volumes about their dedication to their clients' success."

Jeremy Abernathy

3 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Verdie and Nessa to obtain my E2 Visa. Their in-depth knowledge and experience allowed me to be fully prepared in my application and they were able to answer all questions leading up to the Visa interview.

Saeed Muhammad

4 months ago

Verdie was an amazing attorney, providing exceptional client care throughout the process. He had a great depth of knowledge in all areas on business visas in the US.

Satyabrat Chowdhury

7 months ago

I had a great experience with Davies & Associates. They are very thorough in the approach and their have experts in this field who know the domain very well.I would certainly be leaning onto them for any future needs as well.

Tanuj Dewan

10 months ago

Outstanding Immigration Attorney: Highly Recommended! Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5) I had the pleasure of working with Verdie Atienza and his team at Davies & Associates , a top-notch immigration attorney in the United States. Their professionalism, expertise, and dedication throughout the process were exceptional. With in-depth knowledge of immigration law, they provided accurate advice and addressed all my concerns, instilling confidence. Verdie Atienza and his team meticulously reviewed my documentation and maintained excellent communication, keeping me updated regularly. What sets Davies & Associates apart is their unparalleled attention to detail. Communication with Verdie Atienza and his team in USA and Sukanya Raman in India was always prompt and efficient. They promptly returned my calls and emails, providing regular updates on the progress of my case. This level of responsiveness and transparency significantly reduced my stress levels, as I knew I could rely on their support and guidance throughout the entire process. Their personalized approach, ethical conduct, and genuine care for my success made them an outstanding attorney. I highly recommend Davies & Associates for all your immigration needs.

See All Reviews

Looking to acquire an E2 Visa?

We are known for our creative solutions that obtain "impossible" visas, we solve the most complex immigration problems for businesses, investors, individuals, and families.

E2 Visa Immigration lawyer near me

Several lawyers told me I would not be able to get a TN visa. Two weeks after contacting Davies & Associates I was working in New York, visa in hand.

Individual seeking 'Impossible' TN Visa

D&A was very detail-oriented and was very thorough in what they did” L1 Visa Client. There was a lot of work on my case and worked on it 24/7 and was very patient answering all my questions.

E2 Visa Client

My case felt complex but D&A managed the whole process carefully and helped me move seamlessly from one stage to the next.

E2 + CBI Client

D&A was my guiding light through the entire EB5 Process.

EB5 Visa Client

I would definitely be a big advocate for the rest of my life for anyone wanting to explore the Grenada Citizenship by Investment Programme leading to the E2 Visa. The most important thing is a good team behind you.. with Davies & Associates you’re in safe hands… you need someone who can give you all the support at the ground level and, again, you are well take care of by D&A. The people are really warm, very helpful and quite openminded when it comes to business… Not to mention as a passport it’s great from a travel perspective…It’s just 4/5 hours from New York.

Grenada CBI + E2 Visa Client

The entire process of getting an EB5 visa is handled in a professional way by Mark Davies and his team. EB5 is a wonderful option for anyone considering moving to the United States if you have the means. I was hoping to use the H1B route for my children, but it became unreliable and so I looked to the EB5 Visa instead. It is great for anyone who has the resources. Mark gives you the first meetings himself which gives you great comfort. Both Mark and Sanjay are abundantly available and I even had the pleasure of hosting them at my house.

Parent of 2 EB5 Visa Holders

I'm in a process of extending my L1 visa. I submitted a few questions regarding my case and he contacted me back almost immediately both by e-mail and telephone. Unlike other attorneys I met before, he gave me the impression of knowing from the top of his head what kind of visa I have, and what actions had to be taken to extend it. He is very thorough and clear regarding the process and what to expect in terms of timelines and issues that may arise. He is constantly in contact, so you definitely know he's working on your case.

L1B Visa Holder

Mark Davies is a joy to work with. His extensive knowledge, speedy response and attentive service took away all my fears of dealing with immigration and visa applications. He is very generous with his time in explaining every step along the way and I have already and will in the future recommend him to anybody who is looking for an immigration lawyer.

E2 Visa for Small Professional Business With International Offices

Davies & Associates assisted us with an immigration emergency involving my brother's fiancée who was outside the United States. They assisted us in an highly professional manner, working with the relevant US embassy, US immigration and the governments of two other countries. As a result of their efforts the individual involved is now working in the United States. While their knowledge of the law is exemplary what really distinguishes this firm and attorney Davies from any other firm we have worked with is their dedication to customer service and their unrivaled level of professionalism.

Complex Fiancée Visa Need Involving Multiple International Jurisdictions

Several lawyers told me I would not be able to get a TN visa. Two weeks after contacting Davies & Associates I was working in New York, visa in hand. I have recommended this firm to several friends and colleagues, they do an excellent job every time.

Individual Seeking 'Impossible' TN Visa

I was qualified as a physician in a foreign country. Being on a J1 visa I was facing having to leave the United States and return to my home country. Davies & Associates secured one of only 30 J1 visa waivers available in my State, allowing me to work for a US hospital and remain in the United States.

Doctor Seeking J1 Visa Waiver

I am very satisfied with the services Mark Davies has provided me. He has a very extensive knowledge in immigration laws and has a thorough approach to any case.

U Visa Applicant, A Victim of Crime

What Our Client Says

Looking to relocate or having trouble with a visa applicaton?

We are known for our creative solutions that obtain "impossible" visas, we solve the most complex immigration problems for business, investors, individuals and families.

Request Free Consultation

New York Office:
1 World Trade Center,Suite 8500 New York, NY 10007
+1 212 537 9196
Map and Driving Directions

New York Office:
200 E69th Street, 2N,New York , NY 10022
+1 212 537-9196
Map and Driving Directions

California Office:
18881 von Karman Avenue, Suite 220F, Irvine, CA 92612
+1 (949) 620 1811
Map and Driving Directions

London Office:
69 Old Broad Street, Dashwood House,London EC2M 1QS, United Kingdom
+44 20 38841812
Map and Driving Directions

Vietnam Office:
46th Floor, Bitexco Financial Tower, 2 Hai Trieu, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
+84 28 6287 5912
Map and Driving Directions

India Office:
Enam Sambhav C-20, G Block, Bandra-Kurla Complex, MUMBAI - 400051, 27-Maharashtra
+91 22 50323323
Map and Driving Directions

Italy Office:
Via Bonifacio Lupi, 29, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy
+39 055 0763054
Map and Driving Directions

Manila Office:
Unit 107 AIC Burgundy Empire Tower, ADB Ave. cor Garnet and Sapphire Streets Ortigas Center, Pasig City 1605, Metro Manila, Philippines
+63 (02) 7 2157878
Map and Driving Directions

Sydney Office:
Level 12, 210 George Street Sydney, Australia 2000
+61 2 91561032
Map and Driving Directions

Looking for an Immigration attorney?

Have a question or would like to discuss your visa requirements?

E2 Visa Franchise: Your Path to Entrepreneurial Success

E2 Visa Franchise: Your Path to Entrepreneurial Success

E2 Visa defined

E2 Franchise Businesses

Benefits of Franchises for an E2 Visa

Drawbacks of Franchises for an E2 Visa

Eligibility Requirements for an E2 Visa