Do franchises qualify for E-2 visas?
Yes they can. The same requirements apply for a franchised business as any other, whether it is a new franchise or a franchised business already in operation. • Must I have all the money available prior to the application being made? Answer: Yes, you do. The Embassy will want to see funds deposited in escrow (trust) in the United States for the business purchase. This demonstrates that the funds are irrevocably committed to the business purchase, subject to visa issuance. From the visa perspective, it is prudent to deposit the full amount in an escrow account. Arranging escrow deposits is a relatively straightforward matter. • Can my spouse and I both get visas to work in the business? Answer: Embassy adjudication policies have varied over the years. Usually, as long as each owns 50%, it is possible for a married couple or a couple who live together both to obtain E-2 investor visas to work in the E-2 company. A parent and adult child, or two unrelated business partners may also be abl
