E2 Visa for UK Citizens: Key Requirements and Process

Last Updated April 2025

Article Written By

Alexander Jovy - Senior Immigration Expert

Article Written by Alexander Jovy, Co-Managing Partner at Global Immigration Partners. Senior immigration expert with 15+ years in business and investor visas.

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Reviewed By

Ruairidh Campbell , Senior U.S. Attorney, Co-Managing Partner.

Justia Profile ↗ California Bar #151846 ↗ Washington, D.C. Bar #90020424 ↗

Are you a UK citizen looking to invest in the United States? If so, you may be eligible for an E2 visa, also known as an investor visa. This visa allows individuals to enter and work in the US based on an investment they will be controlling while in the country.

Table of Contents

In this article, we will cover the basics of the E2 visa for UK citizens, including the requirements, application process, and investment opportunities.

What is an E2 Visa?

An E2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows individuals to enter and work in the United States based on an investment they will be controlling while in the country. This visa is only available to citizens of countries that have a treaty of commerce and navigation with the US, including the United Kingdom.

Requirements for an E2 Visa

To be eligible for an E2 visa, UK citizens must meet the following requirements:

Be a citizen of the United Kingdom
Have invested, or be in the process of investing, a substantial amount of capital in a US business
Be seeking to enter the US solely to develop and direct the investment enterprise
The investment must be in an active and operating business (passive investments such as real estate do not qualify)
The investment must be at risk (meaning there is a risk of losing the investment)
The investment must generate more than enough income to provide a minimal living for the investor and their family
The investor must have control of the funds and the investment must be made with their own money (borrowed funds do not qualify)

Application Process for an E2 Visa

The application process for an E2 visa involves several steps, including:

It is essential that you consult with an E2 visa Immigration Attorney. Global Immigration Partners PLLC can do a free consultation with you.

Filing Form DS-160: This is the online non-immigrant visa application form that must be completed and submitted to the US Embassy or Consulate in the UK.
Paying the visa application fee:
Scheduling a visa interview: Once the application and fee have been submitted, the applicant must schedule a visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in the UK.
Attending the visa interview: During the interview, the applicant will be asked questions about their investment and their plans for the US. They may also be asked to provide additional documentation to support their application.
Receiving the visa: If the visa is approved, the applicant will receive their E2 visa, which will be valid for up to 5 years.

Investment Opportunities for E2 Visa Holders

As mentioned earlier, the investment for an E2 visa must be in an active and operating business. This means that passive investments, such as real estate, do not qualify. However, there are many investment opportunities available for E2 visa holders in the US.

Franchises

One popular option for E2 visa holders is to invest in a franchise. Franchises offer a proven business model and support from the franchisor, making it a less risky investment for E2 visa holders. Some popular franchises for E2 visa holders include McDonald’s, Subway, and 7-Eleven.

Startups

E2 visa holders can also invest in startups in the US. This can be a riskier investment, but it also has the potential for high returns. Many startups in the US are looking for investors, and E2 visa holders can take advantage of this opportunity.

Existing Businesses

Another option for E2 visa holders is to invest in an existing business in the US. This can be a good option for those who are not interested in starting a business from scratch. E2 visa holders can purchase an existing business and use their investment to grow and expand the business.

Benefits of an E2 Visa for UK Citizens

There are several benefits of obtaining an E2 visa for UK citizens, including:

The ability to live and work in the US for up to 5 years
The ability to bring dependents, including spouses and children, to the US
The opportunity to invest in a business in the US and potentially earn a high return on investment
The ability to travel in and out of the US freely while the visa is valid

Conclusion

The E2 visa is a great option for UK citizens looking to invest in the United States. By meeting the requirements and going through the application process, UK citizens can obtain an E2 visa and take advantage of the many investment opportunities available in the US. Whether it’s through a franchise, startup, or existing business, the E2 visa opens up a world of possibilities for UK citizens looking to invest in the US.

Why not get a free consultation and find out more? Global Immigration Partners have a 100% track record with E2 Visas.

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E2 Visa Basics for UK citizens

What is an E2 Visa?

Requirements for an E2 Visa

Application Process for an E2 Visa

Investment Opportunities for E2 Visa Holders

Franchises

Startups

Existing Businesses

Benefits of an E2 Visa for UK Citizens

Conclusion

E2 Visa Latest posts

Can I Buy an Existing Business Instead of Starting One for the E-2 Visa?

How Long Does the E-2 Visa Last?

Should I Apply from Inside the U.S. or Through a Consulate for the E-2 Visa?

HOW WE HELP CLIENTS

Find an Immigration Lawyer in UK