Yes, it is possible to extend an E-2 visa in the USA. However, the extension process may require meeting certain eligibility criteria and providing necessary supporting documents to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
For more information read below
Yes, it is possible to extend an E-2 visa in the USA. The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows individuals from certain treaty countries to invest in and operate a business in the United States. When the initial E-2 visa expires, individuals may seek an extension to continue their business activities.
To extend an E-2 visa in the United States, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria and provide necessary supporting documents to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Here are some key details to consider when extending an E-2 visa:
-
Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for an E-2 visa extension, the applicant must continue to maintain their investment in a qualifying enterprise. This means demonstrating that the business remains operational, profitable, and provides a significant economic impact in the United States.
-
Supporting Documentation: The applicant must provide updated financial records and business documents to showcase the ongoing viability of the enterprise. This may include tax returns, bank statements, contracts, leases, employee records, and any other relevant proof of business operations.
-
Business Plan: It is essential to submit an updated business plan detailing the company’s growth potential, expansion plans, and job creation projections. This plan should demonstrate the long-term viability of the business and the applicant’s continued investment commitment.
-
Visa Extension Application: The applicant must file a Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, along with supporting documentation, with USCIS to request an extension of their E-2 visa. It is crucial to submit the extension application well in advance of the visa expiration date.
Now, let’s supplement this information with a quote on the topic:
“The greatest test of courage on Earth is to bear defeat without losing heart.” – Robert Green Ingersoll
Interesting Facts About E-2 Visas:
- The E-2 visa allows investors and their dependents to live and work in the United States for the duration of the visa.
- The main purpose of the E-2 visa is to promote foreign investments in the U.S. economy, creating job opportunities and fostering economic growth.
- The United States has treaties with over 80 countries that allow their citizens to apply for E-2 visas.
- E-2 visas can be granted for up to five years, and extensions can be requested indefinitely as long as the eligibility requirements are maintained.
- E-2 visa holders can travel in and out of the United States freely during the visa’s validity period.
To provide a structured overview, here’s a table outlining the key points:
Key Points |
---|
Eligibility Criteria |
Supporting Documentation |
Business Plan |
Visa Extension Application |
Remember, it is essential to consult with an immigration attorney or authorized professional for personalized guidance and up-to-date information on extending an E-2 visa in the United States.
Response to your question in video format
In this YouTube video, the process of extending an E2 visa without leaving the US is discussed. The speaker advises filing Form I-129 with the necessary supporting documents to the USCIS, along with the option of premium processing for faster results. They also mention the importance of including dependents in the application and paying the extra fee for them. The video provides tips to minimize the likelihood of receiving a Request For Evidence and states that if everything is filed correctly, approval should be granted within two weeks. The speaker also recommends obtaining another visa in their home country once travel restrictions are lifted.
There are other opinions on the Internet
For immigrants who have approved for E2 visas one question that arises is how they can obtain an extension of their visa. As a general rule, E2 status can be renewed domestically or the Visa can be obtained through a U.S. Consulate abroad as long as you remain invalid E2 status.
E-2 visas are valid for a period of 5 years and can be renewed with 2-year extensions as long as you maintain the necessary qualifications. However, you are not allowed to reside in the U.S. for 5 years without leaving the country, you must renew your E-2 visa after 2 years of being in the U.S.
Renew your visa in the US, by filing an extension request with the USCIS. You must submit a new I-129 petition, I-539 form, and other E-2 visa extension documents.
If you are in the United States, you can apply for an extension of your E-2 status. In order to do this, you will have to file Form I-129, Petition for Non-Immigrant Worker. Along with it, you will need proof that: You satisfy the requirements for E-2 Visa Renewal; You have maintained your E-2 non-immigrant status;
If you have an E-2 visa, you have been granted an initial two-year period of stay within U.S. borders. Should you require more time, an E-2 visa renewal, if granted, will grant you two more years per extension. It is important to note that you must prove your intention to depart upon the expiration of your E-2 visa.
For any reason including COVID-19 related travel restrictions, if you are in the US on an E-2 visa and your status is expiring, you can renew or extend your E-2 visa directly with USCIS to continue working for your E-2 business.
The investor is able to renew the E-2 Visa once the status has expired. There is no limit on the number of extensions an investor can take, however, each will be in increments of two years. Moreover, the enterprise must generate enough revenue to support the investor and their relatives throughout the duration of the visa.
You have to file the E-2 extension application before your I-94 status expires. That way, you can stay in the U.S. and you can also keep working for the E-2 company for up to 240 days after your I-94 expired. Please see our blog post on the E-2 visa & 240 day extension when you click here.
Before the 2-year period comes to an end, the E2 visa holder can either: 1) leave the US and then re-enter with a valid visa; or 2) they can request an “extension of status.”
The E2 visa is not eligible for permanent residency or a green card. However, it can be renewed with a two years extension once the duration ends. There is no limit on the E2 visa renewal, as long as you meet all the requirements.