My E-2 Visa Application Was Approved, Now What?
Congratulations on getting approved for your E-2 Visa! Knowing what to do next can be a little challenging, here are a few things to expect once you get your E-2 visa.
When Can You Enter The United States After Your E2 Visa Is Approved?
Once you have your E2 visa and passport, you can head to the United States. This usually takes 3-5 days after your interview. You will either receive them in the mail or have to pick them up. However, dependents of an E-2 visa holder cannot enter the United States before the investor. You should all come together, or your family should come after you.
Change Of Address
Immigration laws and regulations require foreign nationals to file an AR-11 form with the USCIC within 10 days of a change of address. When you arrive in the United States fill out this form if your home address is different than the address you listed on the DS160. Non-US citizens must complete these forms at the time of each and every move. Failure to report any address changes can result in fines, imprisonment, and even deportation.
Receiving Your Documents
Once your E-2 visa is approved the consulate will deliver your documents to your home or let you know when and where to pick them up. This usually happened about 3 to 5 business days after your interview. Once you have these documents you may travel to the US as an E2 investor.
What To Do Before Arriving in The U.S. After Your E-2 Visa Is Approved?
Once you get to the airport in the United States, an immigration officer will check your passport and documents. They will most likely ask you questions regarding your E-2 visa business. The officer must approve you for 2 years, your period of admission is confirmed by the I-94 document which can be found on the customs of border protection website at www.cpb.gov and is additional evidence of your authorization to remain in the US. It is advised that you print these documents and keep them with you as they are often requested by government officers as proof of status.
When Do I Need To Get A Social Security Number?
E-2 visa investors are not required to have an SSN to start their business. However, you should get one as soon as possible. Additionally, your spouse can get one too. They are relatively easy to get, once you arrive in the US, you can apply at your local social security office.
Should My Children Apply For a Social Security Number As An E-2 Visa Holder?
Children of E2 Visa holders are not eligible for social security numbers. However, they can apply for an ITIN (individual taxpayer identification number). This is required when filing a tax return to claim them as dependents with the IRS.
Does My Spouse Need Work Authorization If I Have an E-2 Visa?
If the spouse of an E-2 visa holder enters the US, they are eligible to apply for work authorization by submitting an employment authorization application to the USCIS. However, a spouse is not permitted to work until the authorization is approved.
Contact Us!
If you have questions regarding investing or an E-2 visa, please feel free to contact us. We are happy to help you with your E-2 visa application