Recently we have published articles discussing the potential of using EB-1C and E-2 visas to expedite investor immigration into the U.S. Both avenues have the advantage of shorter processing times and significantly less up-front investment.
This article provides a comparison of the EB-1C and E-2 visa programs to help our clients and readers understand which approach may be the best for them and their families.
Review
Visa | Description | Permanent Resident Status |
---|---|---|
EB-1C | Multinational Manager | Immigrant Visa |
E-2 | Treaty Investor | May apply for permanent residence |
Benefits
Benefit | EB-1C | E-2 |
---|---|---|
Faster than EB-5 | Yes | Yes |
Green Card | Yes | No |
Family Green Cards | Yes | No |
Desires Dual Citizenship | Yes | No |
Investment Required1 | No | Yes |
Active Management | Yes | No |
Passive Management | No | Yes |
Startup a New Business | No | Yes2 |
Invest in a Single Franchise | No | Yes |
Invest in Multiple Franchises | Yes | Yes |
Taxation on Global Income | Yes | No |
Dealing with USCIS | Yes | No |
Need for Overseas Business | Yes | No |
The following table offers a bit more insight into how these two visa’s compare.
Basics
Item | EB-1C | E-2 |
---|---|---|
Speed of Processing | 8 months | 6 months, or 15 days Premium |
Green Card | Immigrant Visa | Available Later3 |
Family Green Cards | Available Immediately | Available Later |
Desires Dual Citizenship | Better | Granada Citizenship4 |
Investment Required5 | $0 | $200,0006 + $100,000 or more |
Management of Business | Actively Involved | Develop & Direct |
Startup a New Business | After 1 year | Immediately7 |
Invest in a Franchise | Better for multiple franchises | Easy |
Taxation | Worldwide income | Limited8 |
Dealing with USCIS | Yes | No |
Need for Overseas Business | Yes | No |
This information is a very simple overview to help potential applicants determine which path, if either, might be preferable to pursue. Please understand that each path is complicated and detailed and should not be pursued without expert legal advice.
2 May require a minimum number of employees
3 Involves applying for another visa type
4 Or other applicable country, such as Nevis, St. Kitts, Costa Rica, and other Caribbean nations
5 This amount does not include processing expenses.
6 This amount is a gratuitous contribution to the Granada Island Transformation Fund
7 May require a minimum number of employees
8 Dependent upon the amount of time spent in the U.S.