The United States continues to attract Pakistani entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners thanks to its dynamic economy, strong legal system, and globally recognized business environment. A USA E-2 Investor Visa, available to Pakistani nationals, allows qualified investors to live in the United States while managing and operating their own U.S.-based business.
The E-2 visa—granted under the 1961 Treaty of Commerce and Navigation between Pakistan and the United States—is a non-immigrant business visa available to Pakistanis who make a substantial investment in a U.S. enterprise. This visa provides flexible entry, renewable status, and long-term residence possibilities for qualifying investors and their families.
What is the USA E-2 Visa?
A USA E-2 Investor Visa is a non-immigrant treaty investor visa that gives Pakistani nationals the right to:
- Invest in a U.S.-based business
- Enter the United States to manage and direct that business
- Live in the USA with dependents (spouse and unmarried children under 21)
- Renew the visa indefinitely, as long as the business is operational
This visa category is specifically available to citizens of countries that have signed a treaty with the United States—including Pakistan.
Who Can Apply for an E-2 Visa from Pakistan?
To qualify for the E-2 visa, Pakistani nationals must:
- Hold a valid Pakistani passport
- Invest in a new or existing U.S. commercial business
- Possess at least 50% ownership or operational control of the business
- Demonstrate that the investment is active, not passive
- Show that the business will create jobs for U.S. workers
- Be able to direct and manage the U.S. business
Applicants must be 18 years or older.
What Are the USA E-2 Visa Requirements for Pakistanis?
The requirements for an E-2 visa include:
- Being a Pakistani national
- Making a substantial investment in a U.S. enterprise
- Providing proof of a lawful source of funds
- Submitting a comprehensive business plan
- Showing intent to return to Pakistan after the visa expires (no immigrant intent required)
- Maintaining active business operations
- Demonstrating that your business will not be “marginal”
What Types of Investment Qualify for an E-2 Visa?
Eligible investment categories include:
- Starting a new U.S.-based company
- Purchasing an existing business
- Buying a franchise (restaurants, retail, services, etc.)
- Expanding a Pakistani business into the USA
- Partnerships and joint ventures
- Professional services companies
Passive investments do NOT qualify, including:
- Real estate held for rental income
- Stocks
- Mutual funds
What is Considered a “Substantial Investment”?
“Substantial investment” is not defined by a specific amount in U.S. law. Instead, it is based on:
- The total cost of purchasing or creating the business
- The proportionality test (your investment must be significant relative to the business cost)
- Demonstrating financial commitment
- The likelihood that the investment will generate economic activity
What is the Minimum Investment for E-2 Visa From Pakistan?
There is no fixed minimum, but U.S. consulates generally expect:
- USD $100,000 or more for most businesses
- Lower investments may qualify but face greater scrutiny
Some successful cases involve investments between $80,000 to $150,000, depending on business type.
What Documents Are Required for a USA E-2 Visa From Pakistan?
The documents required include:
- Valid Pakistani passport
- DS-160 online visa application
- DS-156E Treaty Investor form
- Business registration documents (LLC, Corporation, EIN, Operating Agreement)
- Detailed E-2 business plan
- Evidence of investment (bank statements, wire transfers, escrow agreements)
- Proof of lawful source of funds (property sale, savings, business income, inheritance, etc.)
- Lease agreement for business premises (if applicable)
- Organizational chart
- Job creation plan
- Resume and background documentation
- Passport photos
- Marriage certificate (if spouse is applying)
- Birth certificates for children
Documents must be in English; translations must be certified.
For complete guidance and support with your USA E-2 Visa application, contact GoForeign today and get expert assistance every step of the way.
READ MORE: How to apply for a usa visitor visa from Pakistan.
What is the E-2 Business Plan?
The E-2 Business Plan must include:
- Executive summary
- Market analysis
- Competitive analysis
- Business model
- U.S. job creation plan
- Financial projections for 5 years
- Employment strategy
- Revenue forecasts
- Start-up costs
The business plan is one of the strongest components of the application.
How to Apply for the USA E-2 Visa From Pakistan?
The application process includes:
- Choose or establish a U.S. business
- Transfer investment funds into a U.S. business account
- Prepare all E-2 supporting documents
- Complete the DS-160 online application
- Complete the DS-156E form
- Pay the E-2 visa fees
- Schedule an appointment at the U.S. Consulate in Islamabad
- Attend the visa interview
- Receive decision within a few weeks
What is the E-2 Visa Interview?
The interview is conducted at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad or the Consulate in Karachi, Islamabad.
Questions typically include:
- Why do you want to invest in the USA?
- How did you obtain your investment funds?
- What is your business plan?
- How many employees will you hire?
- What is your experience running a business?
- Will your family join you?
- Where will you live in the USA?
The interview is conducted in English.
How Long Does It Take to Get the E-2 Visa From Pakistan?
Processing time ranges from:
- 4–8 weeks, depending on case complexity
- Extra time may be added for administrative processing
Can I Bring My Family on the USA E-2 Visa?
Yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can accompany you.
- Spouses may apply for work authorization
- Children may attend U.S. schools and universities
Can E-2 Visa Holders Work in the USA?
Yes, but only in the business that is the subject of the E-2 petition.
Can E-2 Visa Children Study in the USA?
Yes. E-2 dependents can study full-time without needing additional visas.
How Long Can a Pakistani National Stay in the USA with an E-2 Visa?
Pakistani nationals enjoy one of the best reciprocity periods:
- 5-year multiple-entry E-2 visa
- Unlimited renewals as long as business is operational
Can the E-2 Visa Lead to a Green Card?
Yes, though indirectly.
Possible pathways include:
- EB-5 Investor Green Card
- EB-1C Multinational Manager
- Family sponsorship
- Adjustment of status
Is It Difficult to Get an E-2 Visa From Pakistan?
It depends on:
- Strength of business plan
- Lawful source of funds
- Substantial investment
- Professional preparation
Common Reasons for E-2 Visa Rejection
- Insufficient investment
- Weak business plan
- Unclear financial source of funds
- Passive investment model
- Lack of operational control
- Missing documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between E-2 and EB-5?
- E-2: lower investment, temporary visa, renewable
- EB-5: $800,000/$1,050,000 minimum, leads to a green card
Can E-2 investors travel freely?
Yes, with a valid E-2 reciprocity period (5-year multiple entry).
Can Pakistani investors use property liquidation as source of funds?
Yes, with proper documentation.
