Why the E-2 Visa is a Great Option for Spanish Citizens
For Spanish citizens seeking to live and work in the United States, the E-2 Investor Visa offers a flexible way of immigrating from Spain to the U.S. Spain maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States, making Spanish nationals eligible to apply for an E-2 visa by investing in a U.S. business.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an experienced business owner, or a strategic investor, the E-2 visa allows you to gain legal status in the U.S. while managing and growing a business. Best of all, your spouse and children (under 21) can accompany you—with your spouse eligible to apply for work authorization.
What Is an E-2 Visa?
The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows individuals from treaty countries to enter and work in the United States based on a substantial investment in a U.S. business.
Key E-2 Visa Features:
- No minimum investment amount specified by law (though generally $100,000+ is recommended)
- Renewable in 2 to 5-year increments as long as the business remains operational and meets visa requirements
- Allows for active management of the business
- Spouse can apply for a work permit
- Children can attend school in the U.S.
E-2 Visa Requirements for Spanish Citizens
To qualify for an E-2 visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Spanish Nationality: The principal investor must hold a Spanish passport.
- Substantial Investment: You must invest a significant amount of capital in a real, operating U.S. business. There is no fixed minimum, but it should be sufficient to ensure the business’s success.
- Active Business: The business must be actively trading goods or services—not a passive investment like stocks or real estate.
- At-Risk Funds: The investment must be “at risk,” meaning you’ve already committed the funds and could lose them if the business fails.
- Ownership or Control: You must own at least 50% of the business or have operational control through a managerial position.
- Intent to Depart: You must declare your intent to return to Spain or another country when your visa expires (although the visa can be renewed indefinitely).
Investing in a U.S. Business: Buy or Start?
Spanish investors typically have two main options when pursuing an E-2 visa:
Buy an Existing U.S. Business
This is the most popular option and provides several advantages:
- Immediate cash flow and customer base
- Easier to show the business is real and operating
- Smoother visa processing due to reduced risk
Truforte Business Group offers a wide variety of Florida businesses for sale, including restaurants, retail stores, manufacturing companies, service businesses, and more. Many of these are ideal for E-2 investors, and we can help you find a business that fits your budget and goals.
Start a New Business
If you have a unique concept or industry experience, starting a business from scratch can be rewarding. However, this option requires a strong business plan and evidence of how your investment will create a viable, operational company.
Why Choose the U.S. and Florida?
Florida is one of the most E-2-friendly states in the U.S., offering:
- A diverse and growing economy
- No state income tax
- A large Spanish-speaking population
- A warm climate and world-class lifestyle
- Strong demand for businesses in tourism, construction, healthcare, technology, and food services
Florida’s international airports and ports also make it an ideal hub for global entrepreneurs and families looking to relocate from Europe.
How We Help Spanish Nationals Secure E-2 Visas
At Truforte Business Group, we specialize in connecting international buyers—especially from Spain and Europe—with Florida businesses that qualify for the E-2 visa. Our experienced team works with immigration attorneys and business advisors to guide you through the entire process.
Our Services Include:
- Identifying E-2 qualifying businesses for sale
- Assisting with due diligence and financial reviews
- Coordinating with immigration attorneys to prepare your visa application
- Ensuring your investment meets USCIS requirements
- Providing local support during relocation and business transition
Begin Your Journey to the U.S. Today
If you’re a Spanish citizen ready to explore the opportunities of living and working in the United States, the E-2 visa may be your ideal path for immigrating from Spain to the U.S. Whether you’re investing in an established business or starting your own venture, we’re here to make the process as smooth and successful as possible.
Contact Truforte Business Group today to schedule a free consultation and begin your journey to business ownership and U.S. residency through the E-2 visa.