What is the E-2 visa?
The E-2 visa allows Thai citizens to enter and work in the United States based on an investment in a U.S. business. Thailand qualifies for the E-2 visa because it maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States, as recognized by the U.S. Department of State.
The visa is non-immigrant, meaning it does not directly lead to permanent residency. It is renewable as long as the business remains active and the investor continues to meet all visa conditions.
Why Thai entrepreneurs are well positioned
Strong bilateral investment relationship
According to the Royal Thai Embassy in Washington, D.C., the United States is one of Thailand’s largest trade and investment partners. The Thai government actively supports outbound investment, with official participation in U.S. investment forums such as SelectUSA and other bilateral dialogues focused on economic development.
Government support and economic alignment
Thailand encourages outbound investment in key sectors that align with U.S. market demand. These include:
- Advanced technology
- Food and agriculture
- Wellness and healthcare
- Energy and green industries
According to the 2024 Investment Climate Statement by the U.S. Department of State, Thailand has a robust investment promotion program, and Thai investors are encouraged to invest abroad as part of the country’s economic globalization strategy.
The report also states that U.S.-Thailand trade and investment ties are supported by long-standing bilateral frameworks, making it easier for Thai entrepreneurs to expand into the U.S. market.
According to the Thai Embassy, Thailand actively encourages investment cooperation and the expansion of Thai businesses abroad through government coordination and support programs.
E-2 Visa Eligibility for Thai Citizens
To qualify for an E-2 visa, Thai nationals must:
- Hold a valid Thai passport
- Invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business (no fixed amount)
- Own at least 50 percent of the business
- Direct and develop the business actively
- Show that the investment is not marginal (i.e., the business must support more than just the investor and their family)
- Demonstrate an intent to depart the U.S. when the visa status ends
Application Process (From Thailand)
- Complete Form DS-160 (Online Non-immigrant Visa Application)
- Complete Form DS-156E (Treaty Investor Supplement)
- Pay the visa application fee (USD 315 for Thai applicants)
- Prepare supporting documents:
- Business plan with job creation and financial forecasts
- Proof of investment funds and transactions
- Legal formation documents for the U.S. business
- Evidence of Thai citizenship and ownership percentage
- Schedule and attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok
Duration and Family Benefits
- E-2 visas issued to Thai citizens are typically valid for up to 5 years
- There is no limit to renewals, provided the business remains eligible
- Spouses and children (under 21) can accompany the investor
- Spouses can apply for U.S. work authorization
- Children can attend school but are not eligible for work
Industry Focus and Strategic Compatibility
Thailand’s international investment focus includes sectors the U.S. actively supports. This improves the chance of success for Thai E-2 applicants entering industries such as:
- Clean energy and technology
- Agricultural innovation
- Specialty foods and Thai cuisine franchises
- Wellness tourism and healthcare services
Sources:
- U.S. Department of State – Treaty Countries List
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/fees/treaty.html - 2024 Investment Climate Statement: Thailand (U.S. Department of State / trade.gov)
https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/thailand-investment-climate-statement - Royal Thai Embassy, Washington, D.C. – Trade & Investment
https://washingtondc.thaiembassy.org/en/page/treade-and-investment?menu=641d80c2554db9590526d092 - Royal Thai Embassy – SelectUSA Participation
https://washingtondc.thaiembassy.org/en/content/thailand-showcases-investment-readiness-at-u-s-tha - U.S. Embassy in Thailand – E-2 Visa Application
https://th.usembassy.gov/visas/treaty-trader-investor-visas-e/ - 9 FAM 402.9 – E-2 Visa Policy (U.S. Department of State)
https://fam.state.gov/fam/09FAM/09FAM040209.html