What are some activities an E-2 visa holder can do while in the U.S.? What are some activities that an E-1 visa holder can do while in the U.S.?

E-2 investor visa is an excellent choice for an entrepreneur that wants to start or buy a business in the U.S.   You can find out more about an E-2 visa by clicking here.  An E-1 visa is available when a person or entity aboard conducts a significant amount of trade with the U.S.  You can find out more about the E-1 visa by clicking here. Someone who is in the U.S. on an E-1 or E-2 visa can only work on the specific E activities for the E-1 or E-2 entity.  We have processed hundreds of E visas and often receive questions regarding other activities that are permitted while in the U.S. The following activities are permitted while in the U.S. on an E-1 or E-2 visa to the extent they do not rise to the level of “running a business.”

• Buying or selling stock
• Buying a house
• Buying investment properties
• Renting a property (either yourself or renting out a property you own to others)
• Obtaining a mortgage
• Obtaining a license to drive
• Obtaining a social security number
• Going to school
• Earing passive income – for example, earning income from ads on a website or interest income
• Taking unpaid leave
• Obtaining health insurance
• Buying another business (as long as you do not work at the business)
• File a tax return
• Set up a business entity (as long as you do not work at the business)
• Hiring a nanny, home cleaner or personal assistant for personal services
• Owning a car
• Obtain Life Insurance
• Contribute to a retirement plan (For example, 401K)

You are not permitted to:

• Vote
• Work at a place other than the E business
• Accept certain Government benefits (For example, Medicaid)
• Commit most crimes