E-2 Investor Visa Guide: Access Through a Treaty-Country Citizenship 2026

The US E-2 investor visa lets nationals of countries with a treaty of commerce with the United States live and run a business in the US by investing in a genuine enterprise. Most nationalities are not covered by such a treaty, so for many investors the route to E-2 begins with acquiring the citizenship of a country that holds one, such as Turkey or Grenada. In this guide we explain the requirements, the process and family rights.

What Is the E-2 Visa?

E-2 is not an immigrant (Green Card) visa; however, it offers a long-term status that can be renewed indefinitely. You are expected to manage a real and active business you establish or buy in the US.

Main Requirements

• Citizenship of a treaty country (Turkey and Grenada are both treaty countries).
• A substantial investment in a real and operating business (generally USD 100,000 and up; varies by sector).
• The business must not be marginal (it should have income and job-creation potential).
• The investment must be actually transferred to the business and at risk.

Duration and Family

E-2 is usually granted for 2-5 year periods and can be renewed without limit as long as the conditions hold. Your spouse can obtain a work permit in the US, and your children can attend school.

E-2 via Turkey and Grenada

Turkish citizenship makes the holder directly eligible for E-2. If you are a national of a country without an E-2 treaty, Grenada citizenship also opens a route (since Grenada has an E-2 treaty with the US). If your goal is permanent residence in the US, we can also assess the US EB-5 program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my country has no E-2 treaty with the US?

Then the route runs through a second citizenship. Because Turkey has an E-2 treaty with the US, Turkish nationals can apply directly; Grenada holds an E-2 treaty as well, and both citizenships are obtainable through investment.

What is the minimum E-2 investment?

There is no fixed floor in law; the investment must be 'substantial' relative to the type of business. In practice, investments of USD 100,000 and up are generally preferred.

Is E-2 a Green Card?

No. E-2 is a non-immigrant visa; it does not provide permanent residence (a Green Card) but can be renewed indefinitely as long as the conditions hold. For permanent residence, programs such as EB-5 are considered.

Can my family come too?

Yes. Your spouse and children under 21 receive E-2 status as your dependants; your spouse can apply for a work permit.

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