The Three Reasons Why You Should Not Apply for an E2 Visa Without a Lawyer

Reason #1: Hiring an E2 Visa Lawyer Will Save You Time and Reduce Errors

First off—I want to start by saying that every single client that has hired me to help with the E2 Visa has been fully capable of handling their own case. 

So…why did they hire me? They hired me because:

• They did not want to invest a huge amount of time to learn everything necessary for them to confidently and successfully go through the complicated E2 Visa process. 
• They thought that I could do a better job—be more persuasive, avoid errors, etc.

We are all capable of doing great things. But that doesn’t mean that we want to take on unenjoyable projects that will eat up a ton of our time. For example—although I am not handy at all—I am capable of completing basic home improvement projects. However, that does not mean that I will take on such projects. Instead, I will gladly hire someone because:

• I don’t like working on home improvement projects.
• The projects would take too much of my time.
• Someone with experience will do a better job.

You can look at the E2 Visa process in a similar manner. 

If you are excited to learn about the E2 Visa and you want to devote 40-50 hours gaining all of the necessary knowledge to successfully complete the process, then a DIY approach might be for you. On the other hand—If you would not enjoy the learning process and would rather focus on what you do best—then hire an E2 Visa Lawyer.

If you decide to venture down this path without a knowledgeable immigration lawyer in your corner—or a full understanding of the requirements—then your E2 Visa Application is destined to be a flop.

Reason #2: Lawyer Fees Are Counted as an Investment

One of the great things about the E2 Visa is that there is no minimum investment amount. As long as the investment is large enough to make the business work, it is committed to the business and the other requirements are met, a modest investment can be sufficient.

Despite this truth, people who have committed larger amounts of money to a US business are more likely to be successful because they will be seen as legitimate investors. Smaller investors are subject to higher scrutiny for a number of reasons. This reality makes the E2 Visa process challenging for those who are starting a business with a low initial investment.

When I talk to E2 visa clients with low startup costs, I warn them to resist the urge to skimp on professional services—since those expenses will count as part of the investment. 

Consider this situation—Let’s say you are starting a consulting business in the US. This type of business can oftentimes be started with a laptop and a cell phone. This is great news for people who do not want to risk losing a lot of money when they start a business. However, you will be unsuccessful if you do not spend money on other things. 

To increase your investment, you could devote resources to pay for professional services. Services such as legal services, business consulting, accounting and business plan writing will not only be helpful to your business—they will also drive up your investment total. By increasing your investment, you will increase your odds of a successful application.

Reason #3: An Immigration Lawyer will add Polish to your Application

In order for you to obtain an E2 Visa, the adjudicator must feel that you are coming to the US to run a real business. 

With the guidance of a knowledgeable lawyer, your application will likely be much more concise, persuasive and organized. You will have a business plan that demonstrates how the requirements have been met. The supporting documents will be complete. You will have a compelling memo in support of your application. You will be ready for the interview. In short, you will be in a much better position to clearly demonstrate that you are coming to the US to operate a real business that meets all of the requirements.