Moving from Portugal to the United States is an exciting goal for many entrepreneurs and investors. For Portuguese citizens, one of the most practical and flexible ways for immigrating from Portugal to the U.S. is through the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa. This visa allows you to live and work in the U.S. by investing in a business, creating a strong foundation for both financial growth and family life.
Whether you plan to buy an existing business, launch a new one, or grow your current company, the E-2 visa makes it possible to live your American dream.
Why the E-2 Visa Appeals to Portuguese Citizens
Portugal has a treaty of commerce and navigation with the U.S. This means Portuguese nationals are eligible for the E-2 visa, which lets them invest in and manage a U.S. business while living there legally.
Here are a few reasons why the E-2 visa is such a popular choice:
- You can live and work in the U.S. while running your business.
- The visa is renewable as long as the business stays active and meets all rules.
- Your spouse and children (under 21) can join you. Your spouse may apply for work authorization, and your children can go to school in the U.S.
- You don’t need a college degree, job offer, or special language skills.
- Processing times are often faster than with other visa types.
In short, the E-2 visa is a great option for Portuguese citizens who want to move to the U.S. by starting or buying a business instead of relying on a job or family connection.
E-2 Visa Rules for Portuguese Nationals
To qualify for the E-2 visa, you must meet these key requirements:
- Portuguese Citizenship – You must be a citizen of Portugal.
- Substantial Investment – While no official amount is set, investments typically start around $100,000 and can be higher.
- Active Business – The business must be real and provide goods or services. Passive investments like real estate do not qualify.
- Control and Ownership – You need to own at least 50% of the business or have a leadership role.
- Business Income – The business should support you and your family or show that it will within five years.
- Money at Risk – Your funds must already be spent or fully committed. If the business fails, you must risk losing the money.
- Intent to Leave – You need to prove that you plan to return to Portugal once your visa ends.
Meeting these criteria helps Portuguese investors build a strong case and increase their chances of approval.
What Types of Businesses Qualify?
The E-2 visa gives you the freedom to either buy an existing business or start a new one. Many Portuguese investors prefer buying businesses that already have employees, income, and equipment. This often makes the visa process easier.
Some top business types include:
- Cafés or bakeries
- Retail stores
- Cleaning services
- Construction or renovation companies
- Landscaping and lawn care
- Auto repair shops
- Franchises (e.g., tutoring, pet care, senior care)
With Portugal’s strong business culture, many Portuguese nationals find great success running these types of businesses in the U.S.
Step-by-Step E-2 Visa Process
If you’re ready to move forward, here’s how the E-2 process typically works:
1. Find the Right Business
First, find a business that fits your interests and skills. Many Portuguese investors work with professional business brokers, especially in Florida to find E-2-friendly businesses.
2. Make the Investment
Next, invest your funds. You’ll need to show that the money has been spent or committed—such as paying for equipment, rent, licenses, or hiring staff.
3. Prepare Your Application
Create a complete application with these documents:
- Forms DS-160 and DS-156E
- Portuguese passport and proof of investment
- A five-year business plan
- Source of funds documents
- Legal business paperwork (licenses, contracts, etc.)
4. Schedule and Attend the Interview
You’ll apply for the visa at the U.S. Embassy in Lisbon. Be ready to explain your business, how you invested, and your goals for the future.
5. Get Your Visa and Move
Once approved, you can move to the U.S. and begin managing your business. The visa is typically valid for 2 to 5 years and can be renewed as long as the business keeps running and meets E-2 rules.
Why Work with Truforte Business Group?
If you’re from Portugal and want to move to the U.S. through a business investment, Truforte Business Group can help. Based in Florida, we focus on helping international buyers find E-2 visa-eligible businesses.
Here’s what we offer:
- A wide selection of pre-vetted E-2 businesses
- One-on-one help to match you with the right opportunity
- Guidance through the entire purchase process
- Coordination with trusted immigration attorneys
With our help, you can feel confident about investing and relocating successfully.
Take the First Step Toward Your Future
For Portuguese citizens, the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa offers a real opportunity to begin immigrating from Portugal to the U.S. while running a business. It combines the freedom of owning a business with the security of legal residence for your family. Whether you’re ready to invest now or just starting to explore your options, now is the time to take action.
Contact Truforte Business Group today to learn more about E-2 visa business opportunities. Your American journey can begin with a smart investment and the right support.