The E2 Visa offers an attractive opportunity for Turkish citizens looking to live and work in the United States through investment. Thanks to the treaty between Turkey and the US, eligible Turkish nationals can apply for this visa by making a substantial investment in a US-based business.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur or investor, this guide covers everything you need to know about leveraging Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program as a pathway to the E2 Visa.
In this guide you will learn about:
What is the Turkey E2 Visa Treaty?
The E-2 Visa, also known as the Treaty Investor Visa, enables non-immigrants to live and work in the US by investing in a US-based business. Since Turkey has a treaty with the US, Turkish citizens are eligible to apply for this visa.
The E2 Visa USA was introduced to boost foreign investment and facilitate the movement of individuals making a significant economic contribution to the American economy.
Overview of Turkey CBI
One of the key advantages of the Turkey Citizenship by Investment program is that it opens the door to the US E2 Visa. By obtaining Turkish citizenship, foreign investors from non-treaty countries can become eligible to apply for the E2 Visa.
There are several ways to qualify for Turkish citizenship through investment, including:
- Real estate investment: $400,000
- Bank deposit: $500,000
- Government bonds: $500,000
- Investment fund share: $500,000
- Capital investment: $500,000
- Job creation: Create 50 full time jobs
Requirements For a Turkish Citizen to Qualify for an E2 Visa
Here are the main requirements for the E2 Visa:
- Nationality: You must be a citizen of an E2 Visa treaty country. That’s where the Turkey Citizenship by Investment program comes in. It allows foreign nationals to obtain Turkish citizenship, thereby providing access to the E2 Visa.
- Investment: You must invest a substantial amount in a legitimate US business, this can be an existing business or new endeavor. The business must have at least 50% ownership by treaty nationals to qualify. The nationality of the business is determined based on the individual owners of the business.
Important to note: Based on US immigration law, E2 visa requirements show that the business invested in cannot be considered a marginal enterprise. This means the business must have the capacity to provide job opportunities for others, not just the main applicant and their family.
Validity of the E2 for Turkish Citizens
It’s important to note that the E2 Visa is valid for two years at a time. This means, that whether Turkish citizens move to the US or remain in Turkey, they will need to renew the visa if they want to maintain their E2 visa documents and their investment into the country.
Additionally, it is essential that the business remains operational to avoid potentially losing the E2 Visa.
Cost of the E2 Visa for Turkish Citizens
While there is no minimum investment amount, more successful E2 Visa applications are for investments of at least $150,000.
Processing Time for the E2 Visa for Turkish Citizens
Typically, E2 visa processing can take anywhere from two weeks to up to 5 months. It largely depends on whether you are applying from within the US or from abroad.
Working with a trusted E2 Visa lawyer can ensure that your application is completed in full to prevent any unwanted delays.
Can Turkish citizens include their families on the E2 Visa?
One of the main benefits for those with Turkey Citizenship by Investment is that once the main applicant and their family members become Turkish citizens, they can all apply for the E2 Visa. This includes the main applicant’s spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old.
Tips for Investors: Turkey CBI to US E2 Visa
For Turkish citizens looking to obtain the E2 Visa, the following can greatly improve your chances of having a successful application:
- Investment planning: To obtain the E2, having a solid business plan is essential. It should show job creation, growth potential, and how you will actively direct the business.
- Selecting the right industries: You need to choose a business that has a clear operational model in known viable industries. Popular options include service-based companies, franchises, or consulting firms.
- Obtaining professional help: Working with knowledgeable US immigration specialists or an immigration lawyer is highly recommended to ensure your application is completed timeously and in full. They can also provide the most up to date information on any regulation changes and tips for a successful application.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
