E-2 Visa Costs, Investment Requirements, and Application Fees
The total cost of obtaining an E-2 visa varies depending on whether you are applying from inside the United States or through a U.S. consulate abroad, and whether you choose to use premium processing. Applicants should be aware of the main filing fees: $1,015 for Form I-129 (if applying from within the U.S.) and $315 for Form DS-160 (if applying abroad).
While there is no official minimum investment requirement, your investment must be considered “substantial” and cannot be classified as “marginal.” In other words, your enterprise must demonstrate the ability to generate more than minimal income for you and your family and should contribute positively to the U.S. economy.
With an E-2 visa, you may also bring your spouse and unmarried children under 21 as dependents. Extensions are possible either by departing and re-entering the U.S. (if your visa stamp is still valid) or by filing for a formal extension.
Because U.S. immigration law is designed to attract individuals who strengthen the American economy and workforce, investors and entrepreneurs receive special consideration under the E-2 program. Below, Green Card Link explains the details of E-2 visa fees and investment requirements.
E-2 Visa Fees and Application Costs
When pursuing an E-2 visa, applicants can expect the following primary fees:
- Form I-129 Filing Fee: $1,015 (for applicants in the U.S. in valid nonimmigrant status). Small employers or nonprofits pay $510.
- Dependent Applications: A separate I-129 must be filed for each spouse, child, or employee seeking E-2 classification.
- Form DS-160 Filing Fee: $315 for consular processing outside the U.S.
- Additional Costs: Travel expenses to attend a U.S. embassy or consulate interview may also apply.
Premium Processing for Faster Results
If you wish to expedite your case, USCIS offers premium processing for Form I-129. For an additional $2,805, USCIS will process your petition within 15 business days. While this does not increase your chances of approval, it can significantly shorten the waiting period.
E-2 Visa Investment Requirements
Although USCIS does not set a strict minimum or maximum investment amount, your funds must be substantial relative to the type and size of the business. The general guidelines include:
- The investment should represent a significant percentage of the purchase price for an existing enterprise or the startup costs of a new business.
- Your financial contribution must show clear commitment to the success of the enterprise.
- The investment should reflect a realistic ability of the enterprise to generate sustainable income and employment opportunities.
As a general rule of thumb, investments over $100,000 are viewed more favorably, though smaller investments may qualify if they are appropriate for the nature of the business. Because the standards are not defined with precise numbers, consulting with immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can help ensure that your investment is sufficient to meet E-2 requirements.
Extending an E-2 Visa
E-2 visa stamps can be issued for up to five years depending on your country of origin, but each admission to the U.S. is limited to two years. To extend your stay, you may:
- Re-enter the U.S.: If your visa stamp is still valid, leaving and returning automatically resets the two-year stay period.
- Apply for a New Stamp: Once your visa stamp expires, you must apply again at a U.S. consulate, which requires paying the $315 DS-160 fee.
Remember, each dependent must also apply separately for extensions.
Paying E-2 Visa Fees
The USCIS requires E-2 visa fees to be paid by cashier’s check or money order. Immigration attorneys at Green Card Link often advise clients to submit separate payments for each form to avoid confusion and reduce the risk of processing errors or costly delays.
Refunds for E-2 Visa Fees
In most cases, E-2 visa fees are non-refundable. However, USCIS may issue a refund if:
- A fee was requested in error.
- You were asked to pay more than the official fee amount.
- USCIS failed to process your petition within the 15-day premium processing window (only the premium fee is refunded, not the basic filing fee).
Immigration Attorney Fees
Legal fees vary depending on the complexity of your case. At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys provide clear guidance on costs and offer transparent fee structures, ensuring clients know what to expect from the start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my family members on an E-2 visa?
Yes. Treaty investors and employees can bring their spouse and children under 21. Each dependent must file their own DS-160 form. Spouses are eligible to work in the U.S., though children cannot.
What is the processing time for an E-2 visa?
Processing times vary by consulate. Some cases are resolved in weeks, while others take months. If applying from within the U.S., premium processing can reduce the timeline to just 15 business days. Buying an existing E-2-registered business may also speed up the process.
How Green Card Link Immigration Attorneys Can Help
Navigating E-2 visa requirements on your own can be overwhelming and risky. At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys have extensive experience helping investors and entrepreneurs secure E-2 visas, protect their financial commitments, and even explore long-term options like the EB-5 investor green card.
If you have questions about E-2 visa fees, investments, or application strategies, contact Green Card Link today to schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney.