Singapore is a treaty country under United States immigration law. Citizens of Singapore qualify for the E‑2 Treaty Investor visa, which allows them to invest in and manage a business while living in the U.S.
Who Qualifies
Applicants must:
- Hold Singaporean citizenship
- Make a substantial investment in a real, active U.S. business
- Own at least 50 percent of the business or control its operations
- Show the business will generate profit and create jobs
- Intend to leave the U.S. when the visa ends
There is no fixed minimum investment, but it must be enough to support and operate the business successfully. Passive investments, such as undeveloped land or stocks, do not qualify.
Application Process
- Invest in or establish a qualifying U.S. business
- Complete Form DS-160 online
- Pay the visa fee and schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Singapore
- Provide documentation showing the investment, the business’s readiness, and the lawful source of funds
If approved, the visa is typically issued for up to 24 months for Singaporean nationals and can be renewed as long as the business remains eligible.
Family and Employees
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may apply for dependent visas. The spouse may request work authorization in the United States. Children may attend school but are not allowed to work. Essential employees with the same nationality may also qualify if they hold senior or specialized roles within the business.
Official Sources
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services – E-2 Treaty Investors: https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/e-2-treaty-investors
- U.S. Department of State – Form DS-160 Instructions: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/forms/ds-160-online-nonimmigrant-visa-application.html
- U.S. Embassy Singapore – Visa Interview Instructions: https://sg.usembassy.gov/visa-navigator/
- U.S. Department of State – Visa Reciprocity for Singapore (24-month validity): https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/Visa-Reciprocity-and-Civil-Documents-by-Country/Singapore.html