E-2 Visa for Turkish Entrepreneurs: How to Invest in the U.S.
For Turkish entrepreneurs looking to expand from Turkey to USA, the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa offers a direction to establish and grow a U.S. business through a qualified investment.
This guide covers everything from eligibility requirements and application steps to investment options such as franchises. It also explains how to apply through the U.S. Embassy in Ankara or the U.S. Consulate in Istanbul, answers common questions, and highlights why experienced legal guidance can make all the difference in securing approval.
What Turkish Investors Need to Know About the E-2 Visa
The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is a compelling U.S. immigration option for citizens of certain treaty countries, including Turkey, who wish to invest in and actively manage a business in the United States. The bilateral investment treaty between Turkey and the United States makes Turkish investors eligible to apply for this visa, opening doors to live and work in the U.S. while running their own enterprise.
For Turkish investors, the E-2 visa can be pursued through several routes such as launching a startup, purchasing an existing company, or pursuing a Turkey to USA franchise investment for E-2 purposes. Unlike other investment visa categories, the E-2 does not require a minimum investment amount. However, the investment must be significant enough to ensure the business’s success and sustainability.
E-2 Visa Eligibility Checklist for Turkish Investors
To qualify for an E-2 investment visa, Turkish applicants must:
- Hold a valid Turkish passport, as Turkey maintains an E-2 treaty with the United States.
- Invest a substantial amount in a real and operating U.S. business. This may include starting a company, purchasing an existing business, or pursuing a Turkey to USA franchise investment for E-2 purposes.
- Own at least 50% of the business or have operational control, with the enterprise able to generate more than minimal living income.
- Ensure all investment capital is legally obtained and documented.
- Intend to leave the U.S. when E-2 status ends.
Most Turkish investors begin their application process at the U.S. consulate in Istanbul or the U.S. embassy in Ankara. Meeting E-2 visa investment requirements and working with experienced lawyers to obtain your Turkey to USA investor visa are essential steps for building a strong petition.
“The E-2 visa offers Turkish entrepreneurs unique advantages compared to other investment visas. The process is often much faster than a green card application, and the required investment is substantially lower (approximately $100K compared to $800K for an EB-5 green card). Additionally, Turkish investors benefit from one of the most favorable visa terms: a full 60 months of validity with multiple entry privileges. Combined with the fact that E-2 status can be renewed indefinitely, this provides exceptional flexibility and freedom of travel while operating a U.S. business.”
– Colombo & Hurd Partner Salvatore Picataggio
How Turkish Investors Apply for the E-2 Visa at the U.S. Embassy in Ankara or Consulate in Istanbul
Book Appointment
- Schedule online for the investor, spouse, and unmarried children under 21
- Wait for instructions from the E-2 visa unit
Prepare Application Package (after instructions)
- Follow the 7-tab PDF format (max 15MB each)
- Include: DS-156E, DS-160, passport, proof of Turkish nationality (vukuatlı nüfus kayıt örneği), cover letter and business plan, proof of 50% Turkish ownership, proof of investment, CV and qualifications
Submit Documents
- Email to EVisasIstanbul@state.gov when instructed
- Files must be clear, searchable, and labeled correctly
Attend Interview
- At the U.S. Embassy in Ankara or U.S. Consulate in Istanbul
- Be ready to explain the investment, funding source, and management role
Frequently Asked Questions for Turkish Entrepreneurs
Do all E-2 applications from Turkey go through Istanbul?
Yes. Even if the interview is scheduled at the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, the full E-2 application package must be emailed to EVisasIstanbul@state.gov following the U.S. Mission in Turkey’s guidelines.
How can I start a Turkey to USA franchise investment for an E-2 visa?
Turkish citizens can meet E-2 visa requirements by investing in a qualified U.S. franchise. This involves selecting a franchise that meets the “substantial investment” criteria, preparing a business plan, and demonstrating active management of the enterprise. For a detailed breakdown of costs, industry options, and step-by-step guidance, visit our E-2 Visa Franchise: Complete Investment Guide for 2025.
Can my family join me in the U.S. under the E-2 visa?
Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can be included in the application. Spouses are eligible to apply for work authorization once in the U.S., and children can attend school.
How long can I stay in the U.S. on an E-2 visa?
E-2 visas for Turkish investors are typically issued for a set validity period based on the U.S.–Turkey treaty. They can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business remains operational and compliant with visa requirements.
Can I apply if I already live in the U.S.?
Yes. A change of status to E-2 can be filed through USCIS, but re-entry after travel requires an interview and approval at the U.S. Embassy in Ankara or U.S. Consulate in Istanbul.
Maximizing E-2 Visa Approval Chances with Experienced E-2 Visa Representation
Approval for an E-2 visa depends on meeting eligibility requirements and on how well the case is prepared and presented. At Colombo & Hurd, our attorneys provide tailored legal guidance for Turkish investors, addressing potential challenges early, ensuring complete and consistent documentation, and preparing clients to face their interviews with confidence.
Working with our E-2 visa team means having experienced attorneys managing every stage of the process. Our team is committed to giving each client the strongest possible chance of approval while continuing to support renewals, business growth, and future immigration planning.
