Many Mexican nationals are exploring opportunities to invest and expand their businesses in the United States. One of the most practical pathways available is the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa, which allows qualified investors from Mexico to live and work in the U.S. for an initial period of up to five years, with renewals available as long as the business remains active.
Like Canada, Mexico is a treaty country under the E-2 program. This makes it possible for Mexican investors to pursue business opportunities in the U.S. with a flexible visa option that encourages entrepreneurship.
What Types of Businesses Qualify?
The E-2 visa does not provide a fixed list of qualifying businesses. Instead, the focus is on whether the business is real, active, and for-profit. Here are some common examples that can meet the requirements:
Active Service and Retail Businesses
Restaurants, shops, gyms, salons, cleaning services, and other service-oriented businesses that generate income and employ U.S. workers are strong candidates.
Franchise Opportunities
Purchasing a U.S. franchise can be a reliable route for Mexican investors. With an established brand and structured business model, franchises often provide the stability USCIS looks for in an E-2 application.
Professional and Consulting Firms
Mexican professionals in industries such as IT, marketing, design, management, and education may qualify if the business plan shows clear growth potential and client engagement.
Startups and Innovative Ventures
Technology and innovation-focused companies can qualify if they are well-funded, have a clear plan for operations, and demonstrate potential to create jobs and revenue in the U.S.
Property Management Companies
Passive real estate investment (such as simply buying property) does not qualify. However, an active property management company — where services are provided to clients — may be eligible.
Key Considerations for Mexican Investors
- Active Participation: You must play a direct role in managing the business.
- Substantial Investment: The capital invested must be sufficient to demonstrate commitment and to make the business operational.
- Contribution to the U.S. Economy: The business should generate more than minimal income and ideally create employment opportunities.
- Business Plan: A detailed and realistic business plan is essential to show how the enterprise will succeed and remain viable.
Final Thoughts
The E-2 visa offers Mexican investors a flexible way to live and work in the United States while building and managing a business. By selecting the right type of enterprise and preparing a strong, well-supported application, Mexican entrepreneurs can take advantage of this treaty-based opportunity.
At NPZ Law Group, we assist investors from both Canada and Mexico with E-2 visa planning and preparation. From evaluating investment options to assembling business plans and legal filings, our team helps ensure that each application meets USCIS requirements and is positioned for success.
FAQs
Q: Can Mexican citizens apply for the E-2 visa?
A: Yes. Mexico is a treaty country under the E-2 program, just like Canada.
Q: How long is the E-2 visa valid for Mexican nationals?
A: Up to five years, with renewals available as long as the business remains active.
Q: Does the investment need to be in a specific industry?
A: No. The key requirement is that the business is active and for-profit, not passive. Service, retail, professional, and franchise businesses are common examples.
Contact Information
If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.