Brazilians with Portuguese citizenship have gained a new visa modality for the USA. In December 2022, the USA allowed the inclusion of Portugal in the E2 Visa (Investor Visa).
The E2 visa is a type of investor visa available to citizens who wish to invest in a business in the United States. If you are considering applying for this visa, it is important to understand the requirements, who applies and how to apply.
Can Brazilians with dual citizenship already apply for the visa?
“We need to wait a few months to really see this take shape. Our source is the American government’s own agencies. We have been in contact with the American embassy in Lisbon, we have been in contact with the American consulate in São Paulo and they are still working internally to develop the processes and procedures to make the application of the E1 and E2 visas for Portuguese people a reality”, commented Louanni Ribeiro, senior immigration lawyer from Drummond Advisors.
What steps can be taken?
Louanni mentioned two important tips to prepare for the process:
- First tip: “Verify that your Portuguese passport is valid, since the . visa, when approved, will be stamped in that passport.”
- Second tip: “Always consult with an immigration attorney licensed in the United States who can present you with the E2 visa requirements and help you assess the viability of your application. Part of the investment process involves understanding the source of the investment, that is, where the funds to be invested came from. Another relevant point is to understand how much you, as an individual, want or have available to put at risk in this business. If you are in the process of raising the resources to be invested and you already have the Portuguese passport it is worthwhile to already talk to a licensed lawyer and have those months to shape your dream.”
E2 visa requirements for Portuguese citizens
To be eligible for the E2 visa, you must be a Portuguese citizen, carry a Portuguese passport and have invested or be in the process of actively investing in a business in the United States, which must have the ability to generate profits and create jobs for American workers. There is no minimum amount of investment, but the investment must be substantial and be able to face the type of business you are starting.
To whom does this visa apply?
The E2 visa is available for Portuguese citizens who wish to invest in a business in the United States. If you are an active investor, an entrepreneur or a prospective entrepreneur, the E2 visa may be the ideal option for you. It is important to note that this visa is temporary, so if you wish to reside permanently in the U.S., you may need to consider other visa options.
Key features
One of the main advantages of the E2 visa is that it allows you to live and work in the United States while running your business. In addition, the E2 allows your spouse and children under the age of 21 (unmarried) to accompany you to the U.S. as dependents.
Watch the video recorded by Global Mobility partner Fabiana Guerra and senior immigration lawyer Louanni Ribeiro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Itnz_tjGpBk
Do you intend to apply for the E2 or another visa category? Get in touch with our team through the chat available or email info@drummondadvisors.com
Written by Marcos Ferreira, Content Assistant at Drummond Advisors
