Can E-2 Visa Holders Bring Business Partners or Dependents to the U.S.?
When entrepreneurs and investors apply for the E-2 visa to launch or manage a business in the United States, one of the first questions they ask is: Can I bring others with me? Whether it’s a spouse, children, or a trusted business partner, the answer depends on the individual’s role in the business and their relationship to the principal visa holder. At Sharma Law Associates, LLC, our New York immigration attorneys help E-2 investors plan not only for business success, but also for the individuals who make it possible.
Bringing Business Partners Under the E-2 Visa Program
If you’re launching a venture with co-investors or international business partners, it’s essential to understand how each person can qualify for entry under the E-2 visa structure. While the visa is often granted to a single treaty investor, there are situations where multiple people may apply as essential personnel or co-owners.
How it works:
The E-2 visa is available to nationals of treaty countries who invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business. However, suppose multiple individuals from the same treaty country jointly own and develop the business. In that case, each may be eligible for their own E-2 visa, provided they demonstrate sufficient ownership interest and active involvement in the enterprise.
Additionally, suppose a business partner is not a co-investor but is essential to the company’s success due to their unique skills and expertise. In that case, they may qualify as an E-2 employee under a separate petition. This is especially common in startups or technical businesses where founders or executives bring distinct value to the operation.
Can E-2 Visa Holders Bring Their Families to the United States?
Fortunately, the E-2 visa doesn’t just support your professional future—it can also include your family. Spouses and children of E-2 visa holders can join them in the U.S. and receive derivative E-2 visas of their own.
Who qualifies:
Spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 are eligible for dependent E-2 visas. They do not need to be from the same treaty country as the investor. While dependent children can attend school in the U.S., they are not permitted to work. On the other hand, E-2 spouses can apply for work authorization and legally work for any employer or start their own business once approved.
Important considerations:
· Each dependent must submit a separate visa application.
· Spouses must apply for work authorization (Form I-765) after entering the U.S.
· Once a child turns 21, they are no longer eligible as a dependent. They must seek another visa type to remain in the country.
Planning for a Collaborative or Family-Based E-2 Strategy
Whether you’re launching a business with a trusted partner or relocating with your family, it’s crucial to develop your E-2 visa strategy with everyone’s needs in mind. Failing to include the proper legal filings for each individual can delay or derail your plans.
Why legal support matters:
Each E-2 visa case has unique dynamics—different ownership structures, roles, and family situations. At Sharma Law Associates, LLC, our New York E-2 visa attorneys tailor your application to ensure everyone’s immigration status aligns with your business goals and family needs.
Speak With Our New York E-2 Visa Attorney Today
If you’re considering an E-2 visa and want to bring your business partner or loved ones with you, Sharma Law Associates, LLC can help. Our experienced New York immigration attorneys provide personalized, strategic legal guidance to ensure your business and family are set up for success in the U.S.
Call us at 646-921-6630, online, or schedule a personalized consultation on our calendar to speak with an E-2 visa lawyer who understands how to help you build your future together.
