The E2 Visa in 2018 Under the Trump Administration – Opportunities and Risks
The E2 Visa in 2018 under the Trump Administration
After the 2016 election and inauguration of President Trump in 2017, many immigrants and potential immigrants to the United States were rightfully concerned about his hardline stance on immigration. Although the initial focus appeared to be only on certain types of immigration, he has since broadened his scope to include various types of immigration, including business and investment visas.
One area for potential concern lies with the E2 investor visa. While it has not been specifically targeted by Trump as a potential source of restriction, the overall policies of his administration make it likely that immigration under this type of visa could be restricted or subject to increased scrutiny.
The Buy American, Hire American Executive Order
In April 2016, President Trump signed what is known as the Buy American, Hire American Executive Order. In doing so, he placed a priority on American-run businesses and in hiring American employees. This has created a specific mandate within the American government to protect the interests of American workers. For investors seeking to invest in the United States, this could create difficulties as they attempt to secure approval of their visas.
To obtain an E2 visa, an applicant must be a national of a country that has a commerce treaty with the United States. He or she then must make a “substantial investment” in a business or commercial enterprise the United States. The investment must be in a real operating enterprise, and must not be marginal, and the investor must be coming to the United States to develop and direct the enterprise. The E2 visa gives the investor temporary residence for a period of two to five years, with the opportunity to extend it indefinitely.
Under the Trump administration’s new direction, Consular Officers are taking a harder look at E2 visa applications to ensure that they are not in any way fraudulent and that the business itself will not displace American workers. This higher level of examination may lead to more denials of E2 visas which makes it even more important that you ensure that your E2 application is diligently prepared.
>> Related Content: Do You Qualify For An E2 Visa?
