Many business owners in Germany view the United States (U.S.) as a strong option for expansion. The American market offers access to more customers, established legal systems, and a supportive environment for growth. For German entrepreneurs ready to take an active role in managing a business, the E‑2 visa provides a structured and lawful entry point.
What the E‑2 Visa Offers
The E‑2 Investor Visa allows German citizens to invest in a U.S. business and oversee its day-to-day operations. This visa is available only to those who plan to stay actively involved. It is not intended for passive shareholders. The visa is temporary but renewable as long as the business remains active and meets all required conditions.
Main Requirements
According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), applicants must:
- Be a German citizen
- Invest a substantial amount of capital in a real and operating U.S. business
- Own at least 50 percent of the company or have full operational control
- Be directly involved in running and growing the business
There is no minimum investment set by law. What matters is that the funds are at risk and adequate for the type of business involved.
Visa Validity and Application
German citizens may be issued an E‑2 visa for up to five years. Each time they enter the U.S., they are usually granted a two-year stay. As long as the investor continues to run the business and all visa requirements are met, renewals can be granted without limit.
Applications must be submitted through a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Germany. Interviews are typically scheduled in Berlin, Frankfurt, or Munich. The visa application fee is US$185.
German Industries That Work Well in the U.S.
German entrepreneurs often succeed in the U.S. by building on areas where Germany has global expertise. These include:
- Manufacturing and Machinery
Germany is known for advanced engineering and precision tools. The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action highlights machinery as one of the country’s top-performing export sectors. These capabilities align closely with U.S. demand for manufacturing solutions. - Chemicals and Specialty Materials
The U.S. Department of State confirms that Germany maintains significant investments in American chemical manufacturing. German companies excel in industrial coatings, adhesives, and specialty compounds. - Information Technology and Cybersecurity
Germany’s strength in digital systems and data protection supports growing investment in U.S. software and tech services. These areas continue to attract capital and offer long-term business potential. - Green Technology and Energy Solutions
Germany leads in environmental engineering and renewable energy systems. With the U.S. prioritizing clean technology through both state and federal initiatives, this sector remains attractive for German innovators. - Automotive and Precision Components
Germany plays a key role in global automotive manufacturing. U.S. companies continue to seek out German suppliers for electric vehicle systems, robotics, and high-precision components.
These sectors offer real opportunities for German entrepreneurs looking to launch or scale a U.S. business under the E‑2 visa.
Sources
- USCIS: https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/e-2-treaty-investors
- U.S. Department of State – Reciprocity Schedule: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/Visa-Reciprocity-and-Civil-Documents-by-Country/Germany.html
- Visa Fees: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/fees/fees-visa-services.html
- BMWK – Germany Trade and Invest: https://www.bmwk.de/Redaktion/EN/Artikel/Foreign-Trade/germany-trade-and-invest.html
- U.S. Investment Climate Statement – Germany: https://www.state.gov/reports/2023-investment-climate-statements/germany