For Pakistani entrepreneurs with dreams of establishing a business presence in the United States, the E-2 Visa presents an invaluable opportunity. In this comprehensive guide, we embark on a journey through the intricacies of the E-2 Visa process, tailored specifically for Pakistani investors.
From understanding the core requirements to surmounting common challenges, we aim to equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate this endeavor successfully.
So, whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or an aspiring investor, this guide is your compass in the pursuit of the American Dream through the E-2 Visa program. Let’s embark on this journey together, turning aspirations into tangible achievements.
How Can a Pakistani Investor Obtain a US Visa?
In 1961, Pakistan and the United States entered into treaties that opened up a unique opportunity for Pakistani nationals – eligibility for the E-2 non-immigrant visa. This stands in contrast to Indian nationals who do not qualify for the E-2 visa, limiting them to options like the L-1 or EB-5 visas.
E-2 Visa Requirements For Pakistanis
The E-2 Visa is a fantastic opportunity for Pakistani investors looking to establish a presence in the United States. Here are the key requirements:
Investment Status: You must either be an investor in the process of investing in the USA or have invested in the past.
Skillset and Management Capability: You should possess the knowledge and skillset required to build and effectively manage the business.
Substantial Investment: While there is no fixed minimum, the investment is generally substantial. We recommend investing a minimum of $100,000.
Business Viability: The business must demonstrate the potential for significant results, including profitability and the ability to hire employees.
Intent to Return: You are obligated to return to Pakistan once the visa expires, but it can be renewed as long as needed.
Common Challenges Faced by Pakistani Citizens during the E2 Visa Application Process
For Pakistani citizens, the E2 Visa application process can present certain hurdles. Being aware of these challenges is essential for effective preparation:
Language Barrier: Fluent English is crucial for accurately expressing qualifications and business intentions. English language courses or professional assistance can be invaluable. At Visa Franchise, we offer an incredible discount on Mondly, a platform with over 40 languages! Enjoy the discount here.
Documentation Requirements: Gathering and organizing the extensive paperwork can be overwhelming. Thoroughly reviewing requirements and ensuring all documents are complete is vital.
Business Viability Assessment: A well-structured business plan with a realistic financial forecast is essential. Insufficient plans may lead to delays or denials.
Interview Preparation: Mock interviews and practice can build confidence in answering questions about your business plans and investments.
Limited Investment Funds: Meeting the substantial investment requirement can be challenging. Exploring funding options or consulting financial advisors is advisable.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Franchise
In the world of E-2 Visa investments, not all franchises are created equal. We’ve seen clients receive poor advice that led to unsatisfactory immigration plans and, in some cases, businesses without long-term profitability. Transparency is our cornerstone.
From the moment you reach out to us, we’re dedicated to understanding your preferences and guiding you toward a portfolio of robust franchises aligned with your interests. We’re not just focused on helping you get to the U.S., but on ensuring your business thrives there.
E-2 Visa Issuances in Pakistan
From 2019 to 2022, Pakistan has shown impressive growth in E-2 Visa issuances. In 2019, there were 84 issuances, followed by 76 in 2020. However, the numbers rebounded in 2021 with 102 issuances, and in 2022, it reached 114. This represents a notable 35.71% increase over four years.
E2 Visa Benefits
Obtaining an E-2 Visa brings several benefits for Pakistanis, including:
Business Ownership: You have the opportunity to own and operate a business in the U.S.
Flexibility: You can renew the visa indefinitely, allowing for long-term business management.
Dependents’ Access: Your immediate family can accompany you to the U.S. under the E-2 dependent visa.
Potential Path to Permanent Residency: While the E-2 is a non-immigrant visa, i t can be a stepping stone towards obtaining a green card through other avenues.
E-2 Treaty Investor Requirement Details
While there is no specific amount of investment requirement, the amount must be suitable for the nature of the business the investor is starting. Some businesses, for example in the IT sector, may need $1,050,000 to start while a franchise business may only require $250,000. A wide variety of expenses related to starting up the business can be included in the investment amount.
The investment must be ‘at-risk’ i.e. there must be a possibility of gains or a loss and the money can’t be guaranteed. Must be a real operating business.
The investor should operate, direct and develop the business. E2 visa treaty investors with the required nationality must generally own and control at least fifty percent of the US business.
The business must be or become operational. In order to be ‘Directing and Developing’ their business, the E2 Treaty Investor should be involved in managing the business.
The E2 business should not be considered to be “on the side”. US workers should currently or in the future be employed. The treaties aim to be more than just a job creation platform for the principal investor, but there is no legal requirement as such to employ a particular number of US citizens or residents. It is possible to meet the requirements by employing only a small number of employees. Showing that you will employ a few employees in the coming years should be enough.
The investor should have a proper and thorough business plan. The plan should have goals and milestones about the business and its operations in the US including hiring of staff in the US.
Details of the skills, qualifications, and experience should be provided for any prospective employees of the E2 Treaty Investor, and if applicable for the investor themselves as well.
The principal investor, and any E2 visa staff, must be able and willing to leave the US upon termination of their E2 visa status, since the E2 is a non-immigrant visa category. However, the E2 Treaty investor visa can continue to be extended indefinitely upon meeting certain criteria.
What documents are required for an E-2 Visa?
These are the documents that you need to prepare and submit with your E2 Visa application.
Form DS-160.
Nonimmigrant Treaty Trader / Investor Application.
A photocopy of your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the period of your stay in the U.S. and with at least one blank page.
Colored passport-style photograph against a light background showing full face with no head covering.
Your CV.
How long does it take to get an E-2 visa for Pakistani citizens?
The processing time for an E-2 visa depends on the Pakistani Investor. If present in the USA, the average time is 5 months. Premium processing time is 15 days for $2,500. For outside of the US, E2 visa processing time through a Consulate varies from 2 weeks to 4 months.
How much does an E-2 Visa Cost for Pakistani citizens?
The minimum investment amount is typically over US $150K (Pakistani Rupee 26 Million). For investors present in the USA – The form I-129 fee is $460 (Form I-539 – $370 per dependent), 15 days of premium processing at $2,500. Investor in Home-country – $205 fee for DS-160 form. Lawyer’s charges, Business entity formation costs.
The State Bank of Pakistan is the regulatory body that has a framework and monetary policy for moving assets and money outside of Pakistan.
Is Pakistan an E-2 visa treaty country?
Yes, the United States maintains treaties of commerce and navigation with Pakistan. Nationals of treaty countries must be coming to the United States to engage in substantial trade, or develop and direct the operations of a business in which the investor has invested a substantial amount of capital.
E-2 Visa Pakistan FAQ
Is a Pakistani national eligible for an E-2 Visa?
Yes, As a Pakistani citizen, you are eligible for an E-2 Visa. Pakistan has signed the E-2 treaty with the US.
Can a spouse of an E-2 Visa holder from Pakistan work in the US?
Spouses of E-2 visa holders from Pakistan are able to work in the US only once they apply for work authorization by filling form I-765, if approved they are allowed to work in the US.
Can a Pakistani citizen work in the USA with an E-2 Visa ?
Yes. As a Pakistan national, you are eligible to work in the US but only the business that you have invested in or if you are an employee at the organization that sponsored your E-2 visa.
For a Pakistani citizen, What businesses qualify for an E-2 Visa?
There is no specific list of businesses under the E-2 treaty. As long as the investor has made a significant investment in a business and is approved by the US citizenship and immigration services.
What happens when a Pakistani citizen’s E-2 Visa for the USA expires?
The E-2 visa holders from Pakistan are allowed to renew their visas. The extensions are granted for 2 years and there are no restrictions on the number of extensions available to the E-2 investors.