The E‑2 Treaty Investor Visa is granted to individuals who invest in a U.S. business and take an active role in managing it. U.S. immigration authorities require ongoing oversight, meaning the entrepreneur must consistently participate in the direction and daily operations of the enterprise. Ownership alone does not meet the requirement. Key involvement is central to maintaining E‑2 status and must be demonstrated through continuous management responsibilities.
The following tasks reflect the kind of regular involvement that supports the E‑2 visa’s standards.
1. Reviewing financial activity
The day may begin with a review of the business’s financial status. The entrepreneur might check recent revenues, approve payments, review outstanding invoices, or adjust a supply order. These actions help ensure the business remains active and financially sound. Many start the day over coffee and accounting software, looking at daily numbers before opening the shop or logging into meetings. Having direct control over finances reinforces the entrepreneur’s role as the key decision-maker.
2. Managing internal operations
Throughout the workday, the entrepreneur may handle staff schedules, meet with vendors, or respond to customer concerns. In some cases, the entrepreneur approves job offers, oversees inventory levels, or troubleshoots delivery issues. These tasks demonstrate real-time involvement in running the business. A sudden shipping delay or a staff member calling in sick can turn a routine morning into one that requires quick decisions and personal follow-up. This hands-on leadership is critical to proving the business is being actively directed.
3. Overseeing compliance matters
The entrepreneur may work directly with legal or accounting professionals to confirm that required filings are up to date. This could include signing payroll reports, reviewing business licenses, or renewing insurance policies. These responsibilities show ongoing control of the company’s legal and regulatory standing. Often, this involves a quick phone call with a CPA between client meetings or uploading signed forms before the end of the business day. Delegating tasks is allowed, but the final authority must remain with the entrepreneur.
4. Making management decisions
During the course of the day, situations may arise that require the entrepreneur’s decision. This could involve approving a contract, adjusting pricing, or authorizing a marketing expense. Having final authority over these matters reflects the level of control expected from an E‑2 treaty investor. These decisions may happen at the office, on the road, or even during a conversation with a key customer. The ability to make and document these decisions is essential to maintaining compliance.
5. Updating records and documentation
Before closing the day, the entrepreneur may update operational records, sign internal memos, or prepare financial summaries. These documents serve a practical function and may also help demonstrate compliance during future visa reviews. Evenings are often spent reviewing what was done and planning for the next day, with a laptop open in a quiet office or at home once the phones stop ringing. Maintaining these records supports the required evidence of control during visa extensions.
E‑2 entrepreneurs are expected to remain actively engaged in directing the business. While tasks vary by industry and business size, the core requirement is consistent oversight and decision-making authority.