Spanish nationals may apply for an E-2 visa to operate a business in the United States. The visa is available under the treaty between Spain and the U.S. and allows entry based on a qualifying investment in a U.S. company.
The investment must be substantial and directed toward an active, for-profit business. The applicant must have control over the enterprise and be responsible for its development. Passive investments or ownership without day-to-day involvement do not qualify. There is no fixed minimum amount, but the investment must match the scale and needs of the business.
The E-2 program does not limit the type of business. Spanish investors may choose to start or purchase companies in services, retail, distribution, food, or other sectors. The business must be operational or near launch, with funds already committed at the time of the application.
All U.S. visa services in Spain are provided at the U.S. Embassy in Madrid. Applicants must complete the DS-160 form, pay the non-immigrant visa fee, and submit the E-2 application package directly to the embassy or consulate. Required documents typically include a business plan, proof of investment, source of funds, corporate records, commercial agreements, and evidence of operational readiness. Consular officers evaluate whether the business is real, viable, and compliant with E-2 requirements. Each application is reviewed individually.
Spain promotes several key sectors for international business through Invest in Spain. These include agri-food, renewable energy, biotechnology, infrastructure, automotive technology, and digital services. While sector alignment is not required under E-2 rules, these industries may reflect areas where Spanish applicants already have commercial experience, supplier relationships, or long-term interest in expansion. This context can help investors identify viable business models that are both familiar and capable of meeting E-2 criteria.
Source
Invest in Spain – Strategic Sectors: https://www.investinspain.org/content/icex-invest/en/sectors.html