Can Nationals of Non E-2 Treaty Countries Obtain an E-2 Visa?

Many nationals of non E-2 treaty countries wonder whether it is possible to obtain an E-2 Visa even though their countries do not qualify. The answer is yes; however, an extra step is involved. Nationals of non E-2 treaty countries can apply for an E-2 Visa by first obtaining citizenship of a qualifying E-2 treaty country. This, of course, is not easy. The E-2 Visa application process is already incredibly complex by itself, and having to take an extra step is certainly not going to make your life any easier. However, if you are serious about investing in a U.S. business, then becoming a citizen of a qualifying country can be a great move for you.

Here are some of the best options:

Grenada

Becoming a Grenadian citizen has many advantages. Grenada’s key industries of food exports and tourism offer significant investment potential. Some of the advantages of this particular E-2 treaty country include:

• It has a strong Passport;
• It has a stable and strong economy;
• It has a cost-effective route to citizenship;
• You can obtain citizenship in less than three months;
• You do not have to be physically present to apply;
• You do not have to live in the country to maintain your citizenship once you have obtained it;
• There are no taxes on worldwide income;
• You can include your spouse, children, and parents in your application; and
• You can have dual citizenship.

Turkey

Turkey is another great option for nationals of non E-2 treaty countries who wish to obtain an E-2 Visa to invest in a U.S. business. Some of the benefits of becoming a Turkish citizen include:

• The country has a strong passport that gives citizens visa-free access to 115 countries;
• The processing times of citizenship applications are generally fast (4 to 6 months);
• Applicants are not required to live in Turkey to qualify for citizenship;
• Dual citizenship is allowed, so giving up your existing citizenship is not required; and
• Citizens obtain access to free medical care for all included family, members for life.

Italy

The process of becoming an Italian citizen is called naturalization, and it is open to individuals who can prove they have an Italian grandparent, great-grandparent, or any other relevant family connection further back. The benefits of becoming an Italian citizen include:

• The ability to live and work in Italy and the 27 members of the European Union without having to obtain any visas;
• It is easier and more cost-effective to purchase real estate in Italy;
• Access to public medical care; and
• The ability to transfer Italian citizenship automatically to all children under the age of 18.

Israel

Israel became an E-2 treaty country in 2019, which makes it the latest E-2 treaty country. Israeli citizens can apply for E-2 visas to develop, direct, and control U.S. businesses in a wide variety of industries. The most popular options include:

• Digital Technology and Integrated Circuits
• Biotechnology
• App development
• Pharmaceuticals
• Specialty Restaurants

According to the Observatory of Economic Complexity, the United States is Israel’s leading export market. After the diamond industry, Israel’s biggest exporting industries are technology and biotechnology.

The E-2 visa is an ideal way for Israeli citizens in these sectors to start or expand businesses in the United States, as the Federal government offers special incentives and assistance for businesses in the technology and biotechnology industries.

Are you considering applying for an E-2 Visa? If the answer is yes, contact Attorney Romy B. Jurado today by calling (305) 921-0976 or by emailing [email protected].

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