Legal Question in Immigration Law in Massachusetts
Hi all,
I am Italian with some capital to invest and I would like to open a little restaurant in Boston. I would like to know some more information about the visa process. I know that I need an E2 visa, but how it works? Or what do I need?
Any advice will be appreciate.
Thank you in advance.
2 Answers from Attorneys
A quick overview on the E visa. Call my office for a free consultation.
Caro Kinsella-Immigration Attorney
954-304-2243
� Does not allow you to become LPR
� Renewable indefinetly
� Spouse can also work
� All you need is to have the treaty trader investor rel, majority control of the US company, be a citizen of the country + put at risk $$ into US Co.
� If you do it all at consular level � initially get 5 years, otherwise if you do the I-129 it�s 2 years
� Make sure the money is at risk (not just sitting in bank account, but committed, e.g. contracts
� You must have at least 51% owner of the Co.
� State that their intent is to return home
You will need the at least the following:
1. Online Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application, Form DS-160.
2. Nonimmigrant Treaty Trader/Treaty Investor Application, Form DS-156E, completed and signed, if you are an Executive/Manager/Essential Employee.
3. A passport valid for travel to the U.S. and with a validity date at least six months beyond the applicant's intended period of stay in the U.S.
4. One (1) 2x2 photograph.
Keep in mind that an applicant for a Treaty Trader (E-1) or Treaty Investor (E-2) visa must first establish that the trading enterprise or investment enterprise meets the requirements of the law, and complies with the many requirements for the E visa classification. The consular officer may provide the applicant with special forms for this purpose. The applicant can expect the consular officer to request additional documentation, to make a determination about eligibility for a treaty trader or treaty investor visa. It is impossible to specify the exact documentation required since circumstances vary greatly by applicant.
Also, consider certain activities can make you ineligible for a U.S. visa. In some instances an applicant who is ineligible, but who is otherwise properly classifiable for a certain type of visa, may apply for a waiver of ineligibility and be issued a visa if the waiver is approved.
As an alternative, you can apply for a B1 visa. It will allow you to come in to scout a location and/or lease a building. However, you will not be able to stay long to manage the business. If you have someone you trust in place to manage things in your absence, this can be a great option.
For a free consultation, please contact my office at 904-371-3538 or email me at [email protected].