Nyc’s E2 Visa Experts: Real Results, Real Fast

By Author: Berd and Klauss PLLC
Total Articles: 8
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If you're launching or investing in a US business, the immigration process can directly affect your timeline and funding. You need an experienced E2 visa lawyer in New York to spot red flags early, explain your options clearly, and help keep your case on track. The right attorney knows how to match your visa strategy with your business goals to eliminate avoidable setbacks.

Proven support for E2 visa investors

The E2 visa is designed for treaty investors — individuals or businesses from countries with specific trade agreements with the US — who want to start or acquire a business in the US. Whether you're launching a small enterprise or expanding an international brand, you’ll need an attorney who understands both the immigration system and the unique business needs that come with this visa.

An experienced E2 visa attorney in New York helps business owners and investors manage their applications, from the first consultation to final approval. They can provide tailored strategies that support your investment goals while ensuring your full compliance with US immigration law.

Clear guidance on ...
... E2 visa requirements

To qualify for an E2 visa, you must:

• Be a national of a country that has a treaty of commerce and navigation with the US (such as the United Kingdom)
• Prove that your investment will support more than just your personal income
• Show that you have already made — or are in the process of making — a substantial, irrevocable investment in a US for-profit business.

These rules can be difficult to interpret on your own. A skilled E2 visa attorney in NYC can break them down in plain language and help you take the right steps.

Avoid problems in E2 visa applications.

Don’t underestimate how closely USCIS or consular officers will scrutinize your investment and business plans. The E2 visa process can be confusing even for motivated investors, and small mistakes can lead to outright denials. Your E2 visa lawyer in New York can guide you past the following issues that often lead to denials:

1. Trouble proving a “substantial” investment

There’s no set dollar minimum, and what counts as “substantial” changes depending on your industry and business model. But your investment needs to be large enough to support the type of company you plan to launch or acquire and demonstrate your commitment as an investor. Your lawyer can help you commit the right amount as well as structure and document it properly to meet E2 requirements.

2. Inconsistencies in the business plan

USCIS expects a detailed and credible plan that matches your background as an investor. It should clearly outline how your investment will create US jobs and prove that your business is more than just marginal. An overly optimistic or vague plan can raise red flags.

3. Mistiming your investment

Your investment must be in place before you apply for the visa — you need to have already committed funds or taken concrete steps like signing a lease, buying inventory, or setting up operations before filing. It’s prudent to bring in a lawyer early in the process, so you don’t end up executing transactions that don’t meet E2 visa standards.

4. Disorganized documentation

You’ll need detailed proof of your funds and where they came from, as well as how they were spent. A New York-based E2 visa attorney can help you prepare a clean, well-documented paper trail.

The E2 visa process

1. Choose your business and form a US legal entity, then open a business bank account and start committing funds by signing a lease, purchasing equipment, placing inventory orders, or hiring initial staff. Your lawyer can help you choose the right business structure as well as review contracts and confirm that your early investments meet E2 requirements.
2. Build a detailed business plan that shows how your company will create jobs and contribute to the US economy. Make sure to provide clear evidence of ownership and investment activity. Your E2 visa lawyer in New York will help prepare your business plan and organize a strong evidence package that meets USCIS or consular expectations.

3. If you’re in the US, your attorney will file Form I-129 to request a change of status. If you’re applying from abroad, your attorney will submit your application to the US consulate in your country. Follow their specific rules for submission and supporting documents.

4. If you apply at a consulate, you’ll attend a visa interview. If you apply from inside the US, USCIS may decide your case without one.
5. Once approved, you can move to the US and run your business. The visa usually lasts two years and can be renewed indefinitely if your business remains active and qualifies. You can bring your spouse (who can apply for work authorization) and dependent children under 21. Your lawyer can help you ensure that your business stays in good standing with US immigration law to support your visa renewal.

Experience and reviews matter

Choose a lawyer with strong reviews that show they’re professional, responsive, and easy to work with. A lawyer who understands E2 cases can prevent delays and make the process less stressful.

Many leading E2 visa lawyers in New York also handle other immigration matters, like green cards and work visas. You’ll be able to rely on the same team if your immigration plans change later.

Speak with a trusted E2 visa attorney today

The immigration law firm Berd & Klauss, PLLC, has spent decades helping foreign investors and business owners set up successful ventures in the US. Their team also advises companies on hiring foreign national employees under the E2 visa program and beyond.

Ready to get started? Call 212-461-7152 to schedule a consultation with their E2 visa lawyer in New York or email info@berdklauss.com to ask about your eligibility and next steps.

Patrick Klauss, Esq., is an immigration attorney and partner at Berd & Klauss, PLLC, who specializes in all aspects of immigration law, from visas to deportation and waivers. Berd & Klauss, PLLC is a boutique, full-service immigration firm in New York dedicated to helping companies and individuals secure immigration benefits in the United States.