Sep
30

By

Why Foreign Entrepreneurs Choose Phoenix for E-1 and E-2 Visa Investments

Category: Best E-1 visa attorney in Phoenix, Best E-2 attorney in Phoenix, E-1 visa attorney, E-2 attorney, Uncategorized

Phoenix has become one of the most attractive U.S. destinations for foreign entrepreneurs, professionals, and investors. With its booming economy, growing tech scene, and reputation as a global tourism hub, Phoenix provides fertile ground for those seeking to establish and grow businesses through E-2 Treaty Investor Visas and E-1 Treaty Trader Visas.

Treaty Visas (E-1, E-2)

Foreign nationals from treaty countries often consider Phoenix when applying for E-1 and E-2 visas. These visas allow entrepreneurs and companies to live and work in the United States while directing trade or managing investments.

  • E-1 Treaty Trader Visa: Enables individuals or companies to carry on substantial trade between their home country and the United States.
  • E-2 Treaty Investor Visa: Allows individuals to make a significant investment in a U.S. business and direct its operations.

Phoenix’s economic growth and strategic location make it a prime destination for entrepreneurs who want to benefit from these visa categories.

Phoenix’s Business & Investment Opportunities

Phoenix is not only Arizona’s capital—it is a hub of opportunity across multiple industries. Foreign entrepreneurs frequently choose Phoenix for its affordability compared to coastal cities, skilled workforce, and supportive startup ecosystem.

  • Healthcare: Phoenix is home to world-class institutions such as the Mayo Clinic and Banner Health. Entrepreneurs investing in medical clinics, biotech startups, or healthcare technology have access to a strong market and research partnerships.
  • Education: With Arizona State University ranked as one of the most innovative universities in the U.S., education-related ventures—from private academies to language schools—thrive here.
  • Information Technology & Startups: The Greater Phoenix tech sector has grown significantly, attracting global players like Intel and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). Entrepreneurs in AI, software, and cybersecurity find Phoenix a receptive market with access to top talent.
  • Tourism & Hospitality: Phoenix attracts millions of visitors annually for its golf resorts, spas, and proximity to the Grand Canyon and Sedona. Foreign investors often explore opportunities in boutique hotels, restaurants, and cultural experiences.

Process Overview & Timeline

The E visa process involves several key steps:

  1. Investment: Make a substantial investment in a qualifying Phoenix-based business.
  2. Application: Prepare and submit the E-2 visa application with supporting evidence of the investment, lawful source of funds, and the projected U.S. job creation.
  3. USCIS or Consular Processing: Depending on whether you are applying from within the U.S. or abroad, the petition is filed with USCIS or a U.S. consulate.
  4. Interview & Decision: When applying through the U.S. Embassy or consulate, applicants are interviewed before a visa is approved.

Typical timeline: 1–6 months, depending on processing method and location. Premium processing may expedite USCIS review.

How the Juras Law Firm Helps Phoenix Applicants Navigate the E Visa Application Process

Our law firm works closely with entrepreneurs who want to bring their business vision to life in Phoenix. We provide:

  • Strategic Visa Guidance: Identifying the right visa category based on your goals.
  • Document & Business Plan Preparation: Ensuring your investment structure and evidence meet the legal standards.
  • USCIS & Consular Representation: Preparing applications, communicating with consular officers, responding to RFEs, and preparing you for consular interviews.
  • Local Market Insights: Tailoring your application with evidence of Phoenix’s economic opportunities, making your application stronger.

FAQs Specific to Phoenix-Based Applicants

Q1: Do I have to live in Phoenix if I invest in a Phoenix business?

Not necessarily, but many entrepreneurs choose to live here due to the affordable cost of living and proximity to their investment.

Q2: Is there a minimum investment required for an E-2 visa in Phoenix?

There is no set minimum, but the investment must be substantial relative to the business. Many successful cases in Phoenix range from $100,000 to $250,000 depending on the sector.

Q3: Can I invest in real estate for an E-2 visa in Phoenix?

Passive real estate investment does not qualify. However, real estate development or property management businesses can qualify if they involve active operations and job creation.

Q4: Why choose Phoenix instead of other U.S. cities for an E-2 visa?

Phoenix offers a unique combination of lower startup costs, a booming population, world-class universities, and a diverse economy—making it a compelling choice for investors.

If you’re considering launching or expanding your business in Phoenix through an E-2 visa or E-1 visa, Juras Law Firm is here to guide you through the process and help you maximize your chances of success. Schedule a consultation today to get started.

Sep
27

By

Is US-Canada border still closed for non-essential travel?

Category: Best E-1 visa attorney in Phoenix, Best E-2 attorney in Phoenix, Best immigration attorney, Best immigration attorney in Scottsdale, Best Investor visa attorney in Phoenix, Canadian investors in Phoenix, Canadians in Arizona, Canadians in Phoenix, E-1, E-1 visa attorney, E-2, E-2 attorney, E-2 visa, Essential travel, Immigration attorney in Scottsdale, Immigration attorney Phoenix, Immigration lawyer Arizona, Immigration lawyer in phoenix, Immigration Lawyer Scottsdale, Investor Visa Attorney, Non-essential travel, Top immigration attorney, Top immigration attorney in Phoenix, Travel Ban, Treaty trader visa, Uncategorized, US-Canada Border Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The land border between the US and Canada remains closed until October 21, 2020 for “non-essential” travel. The travel restrictions do not apply to travel by air, sea and to freight rail. The “essential travel” includes but is not limited to: (i) U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents, (ii) international students, (iii) people traveling to receive medical treatment, (iv) emergency responders and public health officials, (v) truck drivers moving cargo or other individuals engaged in international trade, (vi) official government and diplomatic travel, and (vii) members of the U.S. armed forces and their spouses and children.

Most U.S. ports of entry interpret the restrictions that only B1/B2 travel is prohibited, while other ports of entry interpret the restrictions more narrowly and require proof of “essentiality”. The Customs and Border Protection is still performing routine adjudications of TN and L-1 petitions at the land ports of entry, although some land ports are requiring proof that the proposed employment is “essential”.

Canada’s Quarantine Act requires anyone who is permitted to enter Canada to self-isolate for 14 days following entry to Canada (unless they are flag-poling).

Please note that this article does not constitute legal advice.  We simplified the law to outline the law. If you to schedule a consultation, call our experienced immigration attorney at 480-425-2009 or schedule your consultation online.

Aug
30

By

Does “trade” include only international exchange of goods for purposes of E-1 visa?

Category: Best E-1 visa attorney in Phoenix, Best immigration attorney, Canadian investors in Phoenix, Canadians in Arizona, Canadians in Phoenix, Czech investors, E-1, E-1 visa attorney, Immigration attorney Phoenix, Immigration lawyer Arizona, Immigration Lawyer Scottsdale, Investor Visa Attorney, Non-immigrant visas, Top immigration attorney, Uncategorized, visa for Canadians Tags: , , , , ,

E-1 visa requires (a) a treaty, (b) the individual or business possess the nationality of the treaty country, (c) the activities the applicant will engage in constitute “trade”, (d) the trade is substantial and (e) principally between the US and the treaty country, (f) if an employee is the applicant, (s)he is destined to an executive or supervisory position or possesses essential skills to the US operation and (g) intends to depart the US when the E-1 status terminates.

The items of “trade” include but are not limited to goods, services, international banking, insurance monies, transportation, communications, data processing, advertising, accounting, design and engineering, management consulting, tourism, technology and its transfer, and some news-gathering activities.   As you can see, it does not have to be only physical goods.  Here is an example.

My client owns a Canadian franchised custom home building and renovation company that offers its clients the home building and renovation services through the company’s network of franchisees. My client formed a US company to engage in the business of offering and granting franchises in the United States.  The Canadian company provides accounting, legal, broker, marketing and training services to the US company.  There is an actual exchange of services and moneys that create transactions considered “trade”.   E-1 visa was approved quickly.

Please note that this article does not constitute a legal advice.  We simplified the law to outline one aspect of E-1 visa.   If you would like us to discuss if you qualify for E-1 visa and help us get you an E-1 visa, call our experienced E-1 visa attorney at 480-425-2009 or schedule your consultation online.