{"id":13299,"date":"2021-02-09T12:41:56","date_gmt":"2021-02-09T12:41:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/?p=13299"},"modified":"2025-05-09T07:39:51","modified_gmt":"2025-05-09T07:39:51","slug":"can-i-change-status-while-on-e2-visa-us-can-i-apply-for-an-e2-visa-green-card","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/ja\/can-i-change-status-while-on-e2-visa-us-can-i-apply-for-an-e2-visa-green-card\/","title":{"rendered":"Can I change status while on E2 visa US? Can I apply for an E2 visa green card?"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"13299\" class=\"elementor elementor-13299\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-d9fdb35 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"d9fdb35\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-284483be\" data-id=\"284483be\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1c3fa76c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1c3fa76c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><strong style=\"color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(1.325rem + 0.9vw);\">Changing your status while on E-2 visa USA.<\/strong><\/h2><p>Have plans to work on the US under E-2 visa and ultimately apply for an E-2 visa green card? That&#8217;s very possible.\u00a0 Here&#8217;s how to go about it.<\/p><p>The E-2 investor visa is a work permit for foreign investors, from E-2\u00a0visa countries, looking to leave and work in USA.\u00a0 There are set requirements for E-2\u00a0visa applicants.<\/p><p>If you comply with all the requirements and ultimately get your E-2\u00a0visa USA, you can choose to change status at the lapse of your E-2\u00a0visa period.\u00a0 Changing status implies opting for a permanent residency in the US.\u00a0 Of course, there are set E-2\u00a0visa requirements for a status change.<\/p><h2><strong style=\"color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(1.325rem + 0.9vw);\">How to change your status while on E-2 Visa<\/strong><\/h2><p>You can choose to change from the nonimmigrant status to a permanent US resident.\u00a0 If you are on E-2\u00a0visa US, there are two ways to go about this.\u00a0 First you can file a 1-129 petition for E-2 visa change of status.\u00a0 Secondly, you can opt for a change of status via consular processing.<\/p><p>The latter option is commonplace.\u00a0 There are many advantages associated with change of status while on E-2 visa USA.\u00a0 It comes with lots of rights and privileges enjoyed by all US citizens.<\/p><h2><strong style=\"color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(1.325rem + 0.9vw);\">Requirements for change of status on E-2 visa US.<\/strong><\/h2><ul><li>Only those on valid E-2\u00a0visa may apply for a change of status.\u00a0 You can choose to file for the change while in E-2\u00a0visa in USA or do so via a consulate.<\/li><li>You need to file an I-129 petition under the E-2 investor visa classification.<\/li><\/ul><p>Approval of your status change request may take 6 months on average.\u00a0 It could take a shorter or much longer duration depending on a couple of reasons.\u00a0 For instance, the number of applications being processed by the particular USCIS service center, etc.<\/p><p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/e2-v1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"302\" height=\"201\" \/><\/p><p>You can expedite the process by opting for premium processing, at a small fee.\u00a0 This option shortens the duration to a maximum of 15 days.\u00a0 Premium status change processing also improves your chances of approval.<\/p><h3><strong>Disadvantages of Applying for Status Change while on E-2 Visa <\/strong><\/h3><p>A major disadvantage associated with E-2\u00a0visa status change is visa retrogression.\u00a0 That has to do with the exhaustion of your monthly E-2\u00a0visa quotas while your application for status change is still pending.<\/p><p>Visa retrogression holds very dire consequences to the investor and their business enterprise.\u00a0 It might compromise the legality of the entire investment.\u00a0 However, you can avoid all that drama by making your E-2\u00a0investor visa status application through a US consulate.<\/p><p>The 1-129 petition method of change of status is rather expensive compared to the consular processing.<\/p><h2><strong style=\"color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(1.325rem + 0.9vw);\">Consular Processing of E-2 visa USA status change<\/strong><\/h2><p>If you are inside the US, applying for the status change can be done in two ways; USCIS option and consular option.\u00a0 Those outside the US have only one option; consular processing.<\/p><p>The whole process involves a one-on-one interview with the immigration officers.\u00a0 So, you\u2019ve got to be prepared to answer a couple of questions.\u00a0 Be sure to carry all the necessary documentation with you.<\/p><h3><strong>Advantages of Consular processing<\/strong><\/h3><p>There are many advantages associated with consular processing of E-2\u00a0investor visa change of status.<\/p><ul><li>It is much faster and more affordable.<\/li><\/ul><p>You won\u2019t have to pay hefty premium processing fees.\u00a0 You can choose to expedite the whole process by paying a small fee.\u00a0 That is optional though.<\/p><ul><li>It eliminates the cost of having to travel back to your home country to file for the E-2 visa change of status.<\/li><\/ul><p>Other than travel to your native country, a non-immigrant status such as H-1B or L-1, consular processing saves you all the hassle.<\/p><h3><strong>Disadvantages of consular processing<\/strong><\/h3><p>The consular E-2\u00a0visa status change processing also comes with some disadvantages.\u00a0 For instance:<\/p><ul><li>Little chance of success compared to the 1-129 petition method.<\/li><li>It is up to the immigration officers to turn down or approve of your request.<\/li><\/ul><h2><strong style=\"color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(1.325rem + 0.9vw);\">Can you apply for a green card with an E-2 visa?<\/strong><\/h2><p>It is possible to change from E-2 visa to green card.\u00a0 The same is true for E-2 dependent visa holders; spouses, children, and employees.\u00a0 However, the E-2 visa US shouldn\u2019t be reason enough to be granted the US green card.<\/p><p>Once you file your application for change from E-2 visa to green card, the USCIS will review it and approve or deny request.\u00a0 If successful, you will be granted a permanent resident status and be entitled to all the rights and privileges associated.<\/p><p>If you are planning to pursue an E-2 visa green card and you have a pending immigration petition, it is advisable to apply for your E-2 investor visa change of status through the 1-129 petition.\u00a0 Steer clear of consular processing for this particular case.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-f02ec34 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"f02ec34\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-b0aafa9\" data-id=\"b0aafa9\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-206f670 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"206f670\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What is the step-by-step process for applying for a Change of Status to an E-2 visa in the US?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-3d236e1 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"3d236e1\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-1d66da0\" data-id=\"1d66da0\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b1ed598 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b1ed598\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">If you&#8217;re looking to change your status to an E-2 visa while remaining in the U.S., here&#8217;s a detailed guide to walk you through the process:<\/span><\/p><p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">1. Prepare Form I-129<\/span><\/strong><\/p><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Begin by completing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. This form is the foundation of your request to change status to E-2.<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Be sure to include the E supplement and gather documents such as proof of your ownership interest, details of the U.S. business, and the source of your investment funds.<\/span><\/p><p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">2. Compile Supporting Documentation<\/span><\/strong><\/p><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Assemble a robust packet of supporting materials, including:<\/span><\/p><ul><li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">A detailed business plan<\/span><\/li><li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Financial statements or investment records<\/span><\/li><li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Evidence of your treaty <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">country<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> nationality<\/span><\/li><li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Documentation showing the enterprise is active and not marginal<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">3. Submit to USCIS<\/span><\/strong><\/p><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> File your completed I-129 application with USCIS, along with all supporting documents and the required fees. Accuracy and thoroughness at this stage are key to preventing delays or a Request for Evidence (RFE).<\/span><\/p><p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">4. Wait for USCIS Decision<\/span><\/strong><\/p><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> USCIS will review your submission. Unlike many visa categories, this process does not typically require an in-person interview, and you are not expected to leave the U.S. while your change-of-status request is pending.<\/span><\/p><p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">5. Receive Approval Notification<\/span><\/strong><\/p><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Upon approval, USCIS will issue an I-797 Approval Notice. <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> includes an updated I-94 indicating your new admission class as &#8220;E-2.&#8221;\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This process enables eligible individuals already in the U.S. to obtain E-2 status without leaving the country, offering a practical and efficient <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">route to launching a qualifying busine<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">ss.<\/span><\/p><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-c0ea25a elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"c0ea25a\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-bb772fc\" data-id=\"bb772fc\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1a24f18 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1a24f18\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What are the limitations of the E-2 Change of Status in terms of travel and validity?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-92d207a elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"92d207a\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-fd812ba\" data-id=\"fd812ba\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7cacb84 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7cacb84\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">When opting for an E-2 Change of Status, it&#8217;s important to understand its specific travel and validity constraints.<\/span><\/p><h4><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Travel Limitations<\/span><\/strong><\/h4><ul><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Domestic Stay Only<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: This change allows you to remain in the United States to manage your business. However, it does not permit re-entry into the U.S. if you travel internationally. <\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Visa Necessity for Re-entry<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: To re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad, you must obtain an E-2 visa from a U.S. Consulate in another country. <\/span><\/li><\/ul><h4><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Validity Concerns<\/span><\/strong><\/h4><ul><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Validity Duration<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: An E-2 Change of Status usually offers a validity period of two years. This is shorter than the typical five-year maximum for E-2 visas obtained directly from U.S. Consulates, depending on your country&#8217;s treaty terms. <\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Approval Differences<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: An approval from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) doesn&#8217;t promise success in acquiring an E-2 visa from a U.S. Consulate. Each application at the consulate requires a complete resubmission of documentation, and consulates may not consider previous USCIS approvals as influential. <\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Despite these limitations, having a successfully operating E-2 business established in the U.S. may positively impact the consulate&#8217;s decision if you apply for a visa abroad. Understanding these nuances can help you manage expectations and make informed decisions about your business operations and travel plans.<\/span><\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-d6106c9 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"d6106c9\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-2e8f03b\" data-id=\"2e8f03b\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-de4af76 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"de4af76\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What are the pros and cons of changing the status of an E-2 Visa in the U.S.?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-e754daf elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"e754daf\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-29c3c22\" data-id=\"29c3c22\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-168c1c5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"168c1c5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Transitioning to an E-2 visa via a change of status while in the U.S. can be a practical route for many entrepreneurs. However, it&#8217;s essential to weigh the advantages against the drawbacks.<\/span><\/p><h4><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Pros of Changing Status to an E-2 Visa<\/span><\/strong><\/h4><ul><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Expedited Processing:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> With premium processing, you can receive a decision in just 15 calendar days\u2014dramatically reducing the wait compared to the standard 1 to 3 months for regular applications.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">No Interview Needed: <\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Unlike consular processing, changing status within the U.S. allows you to skip the in-person interview, streamlining the application experience.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">High Convenience Factor:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Receiving your status change decision by mail eliminates the need for international travel. Once approved, you can dive straight into managing your business.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h4><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Cons of Changing Status to an E-2 Visa<\/span><\/strong><\/h4><ul><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Travel Limitations:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> This change does not come with a visa stamp. While it permits business management within the U.S., you cannot re-enter the country if you travel abroad without securing an E-2 visa from a U.S. Consulate outside the U.S.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Reduced Validity Period:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> The E-2 status obtained through change of status is usually valid for two years, compared to up to five years for those who obtain their visa at a U.S. Consulate, depending on the treaty country.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Approval Uncertainty for Future Applications:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> An approved change of status by USCIS doesn\u2019t guarantee that a U.S. consulate will issue an E-2 visa later. If you apply abroad, you\u2019ll need to submit a fresh, full application, and consular officers make independent judgments. However, demonstrating a stable, successful business can improve your chances during that future consular review.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Understanding these pros and cons can help you make a well-informed decision about your path to an E-2 visa in the U.S.<\/span><\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-74318a3 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"74318a3\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-ea698cc\" data-id=\"ea698cc\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-859065a elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"859065a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Who cannot change their status to an E-2 visa while in the U.S.?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-837881e elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"837881e\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-15f0787\" data-id=\"15f0787\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-60d8349 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"60d8349\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>Restrictions on Changing to E-2 Visa Status in the U.S.<\/strong><\/p><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Understanding visa limitations is crucial if you&#8217;re considering an E-2 visa. Here\u2019s a comprehensive look at who cannot change their status to an E-2 visa while in the United States:<\/span><\/p><ul><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">ESTA Travelers<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: Individuals entering the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program cannot switch to an E-2 status once inside the country.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Dual Citizens Using a Non-Treaty Passport<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: If you&#8217;re a dual citizen and entered on a passport from a country without an E-2 treaty, you won\u2019t be eligible to adjust to E-2 status.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Crew Members<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: Those in the U.S. on a D nonimmigrant visa, intended for crew members, are barred from making this transition.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Transit Visa Holders<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: Individuals visiting the U.S. on a C visa, typically meant for transit, cannot change their status to E-2.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Fianc\u00e9s and Their Dependents<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: Those here on a K visa, applicable to fianc\u00e9s of U.S. Citizens or their dependents, cannot adjust to E-2 status.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Informants on Terrorism or Organized Crime<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: S visa holders, including informants and their families, are not eligible for E-2 visa status changes.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Certain J1 Exchange Visitors<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: If you&#8217;re a J1 visa holder subject to a foreign residency requirement and lack an approved waiver, changing to an E-2 visa is not possible.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">J1 Visa Holders in Medical Training<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: Holders engaged in receiving graduate medical training without an appropriate waiver cannot shift their status to E-2.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Understanding these restrictions helps ensure you\u2019re on the right path to achieving your visa goals in the United States.<\/span><\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-d536b5f elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"d536b5f\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-6bf8544\" data-id=\"6bf8544\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-76bd265 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"76bd265\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How long does the E-2 Change of Status process take in the U.S.?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-9f4e73b elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"9f4e73b\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-fac9a62\" data-id=\"fac9a62\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6ca50c4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6ca50c4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Approval of your status change request may take 6 months on average. It could take a shorter or much longer duration depending on a couple of reasons. For instance, the number of applications being processed by the particular USCIS service center, etc.<\/span><\/p><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">However, processing timelines can vary, and here\u2019s a more detailed breakdown:<\/span><\/p><ul><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Expedited Processing (15 Days):<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Premium processing lets you fast-track your E-2 status change for an added fee, with USCIS promising a decision within 15 calendar days\u2014provided there\u2019s no Request for Evidence (RFE). While it doesn\u2019t guarantee approval, the quicker turnaround can be a strategic advantage, especially if your application is strong and time sensitive.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Regular Processing (Up to 3 Months):<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Standard processing can take several weeks to as long as three months, depending on the USCIS service center\u2019s caseload and the specifics of your application.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">By weighing the urgency of your business needs against cost and flexibility, you can choose the processing route that best aligns with your immigration timeline and long-term goals.<\/span><\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-0f19848 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"0f19848\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-6188205\" data-id=\"6188205\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c8b8c8c elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"c8b8c8c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Can you apply for a green card with an E-2 visa?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-546332a elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"546332a\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-e937d0e\" data-id=\"e937d0e\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-627b5f8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"627b5f8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>It is possible to change from an E-2 visa to a green card. The same applies to E-2 dependent visa holders, including spouses, children, and employees. However, holding an E-2 visa shouldn&#8217;t be reason enough to be granted a U.S. green card.<br \/>Once you file your application for a change from an E-2 visa to a green card, the USCIS will review it and decide whether to approve or deny your request. If successful, you will be granted permanent resident status and enjoy all associated rights and privileges.<\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-55b4886 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"55b4886\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-5d82cc0\" data-id=\"5d82cc0\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6e11242 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"6e11242\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Who qualifies for an E-2 Change of Status in the U.S.?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-5d3a222 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"5d3a222\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-5dbb0cd\" data-id=\"5dbb0cd\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7e3cd04 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7e3cd04\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>Requirements for Change of Status on E-2 Visa in the U.S.<\/strong><\/p><ul><li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Only those on a valid E-2 visa may apply for a change of status. You can choose to file for the change while in an E-2 visa in the USA or do so via a consulate.<\/span><\/li><li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">You need to file an I-129 petition under the E-2 investor visa classification.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h3><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Eligibility for E-2 Change of Status<\/span><\/strong><\/h3><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">To qualify for a change of status to an E-2 visa while in the United States, you must meet specific criteria:<\/span><\/p><ul><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">E-2 Treaty Country Citizen<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: You must be a citizen of a country with an E-2 Treaty with the U.S. Without this, you cannot apply for an E-2 change of status.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Valid U.S. Visa Status<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: Ensure you are currently in the U.S. on a valid, unexpired visa, such as a B1\/B2 (business\/tourist) or F-1 (student) visa.<\/span><\/li><li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Canadians Traveling Visa-Free<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: If you are Canadian and traveling visa-free, you are still eligible.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">It&#8217;s important to note that being a citizen of a treaty country is a prerequisite. Even if you meet other conditions, not holding citizenship from a treaty country disqualifies you from applying for a change of status to E-2 with USCIS.<\/span><\/p><p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This comprehensive understanding of eligibility helps ensure your application process is smooth and aligns with the existing visa regulations.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Changing your status while on E-2 visa USA. Have plans to work on the US under E-2 visa and ultimately apply f [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":17,"featured_media":6384,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[410],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13299","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-e-2-visa"],"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13299","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/17"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13299"}],"version-history":[{"count":62,"href":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13299\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":33833,"href":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13299\/revisions\/33833"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6384"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13299"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13299"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.immigrationbusinessplan.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13299"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}