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

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 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, communication with the consular officers, responding to Requests for Evidence (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 or E-1 visa, the Juras Law Firm is here to guide you through the process and help you maximize your chances of success.

Visa Fees Will Increase on June 17, 2023

Starting from June 17, 2023, the fees for certain types of temporary (non-immigrant) visas will increase. The fees for visitor visas for business (B-1) or tourism (B-2), student visas (F), exchange visitor (J) visas, and certain temporary worker visas will go up by different amounts. For example, the fee for a visitor visa (B) and other visas (F, J) that do not require a petition to be filed with USCIS will increase from $160 to $185. The fee for temporary worker visas such as H, L, O, P, Q, and R, which do require an approved petition, will increase from $190 to $205. The fees for E visas will increase from $205 to $315.If you have already paid your visa fees before June 17, 2023, the amount you paid will still be considered valid until the expiration date on your fee receipt.

If you would like to discuss if you are eligible to apply for any of the temporary (non-immigrant) or permanent (immigrant) visas, schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ today or call our office at 480-425-2009!  We look forward to talking with you and helping you get your U.S. visa; contact us now!

Difference between Chapter 15 foreign main and nonmain proceeding

A foreign “main” insolvency proceeding is a foreign proceeding pending in
the country where the debtor has the center of its main interests. The debtor’s registered office or habitual residence (domicile) is presumed to be the center of the debtor’s main interests. A foreign “nonmain” proceeding is a foreign proceeding pending in a country where the debtor maintains an establishment (persistent economic activity).

The distinction is an important one as recognition of a foreign main proceeding provides for certain rights that are not applicable to a foreign nonmain proceeding.

If the U.S. Bankruptcy court recognizes the foreign insolvency proceeding as the main proceeding, the stay of all collection efforts, foreclosures, and lawsuits against the debtor and his or her assets is triggered automatically. In addition, any sales outside the ordinary course need to be approved by the Bankruptcy Court, certain transfers of assets can be avoided and the foreign representative has additional powers. If the foreign proceeding is recognized as a nonmain proceeding, the foreign representative can request powers such as staying collection efforts against debtor’s assets, preventing debtor to transfer his or her assets, interview witnesses, and administering debtor’s assets located in the United States.

Please note that this article does not constitute legal advice.  We simplified the law to provide general information about Chapter 15 bankruptcy.  If you would like to discuss if Chapter 15 bankruptcy will help in your situation, schedule a consultation with an experienced bankruptcy lawyer in Phoenix at www.calendly.com/irena-3 today or call our office at 480-425-2009.

What is a conditional green card (permanent residence)?

A conditional green card is valid for only 2 years and is issued (1) to a spouse who has been married for less than 2 years at the time of green card approval and (2) to a foreign EB-5 investor and to his or her dependents.

A conditional green card holder must file a petition to “remove the conditions” within the 90-day period before the conditional green card expires. The conditional green card holder based on marriage needs to show that he has been married during those two years (with certain exceptions). The conditional green card holder based on EB-5 investment needs to show that (s)he invested $1,8 million (or $900,000 in certain areas), (s)he sustained the investment during those 2 years, and that (s)he created 10 new full-time jobs for U.S. workers.

Please note that this article does not constitute legal advice.  We simplified the law to provide only general information to outline the conditional resident status and conditional green card.  If you would like to discuss how to obtain a conditional green card or need help with the removal of conditions on residency, schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration lawyer in Phoenix at www.calendly.com/irena-3 TODAY or call our office at 480-425-2009.

Can I enter the U.S. with my green card after one year abroad?

If you have a green card and stayed outside the United States due to circumstances beyond your control for longer than one year or beyond the validity of the re-entry permit, you may need a returning resident (SB-1) special immigrant visa to enter the United States and resume permanent residence. You will need to prove that you did not abandon your residency.

If your application for returning resident status is not approved, a new green card petition will need to be filed.

Please note that this article does not constitute legal advice.  We simplified the law to provide only general information about green card use and validity after an extended stay abroad.  If you plan extended stay abroad or stayed abroad due to unforeseen circumstances and would like to discuss your situation and how we can help you, schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration lawyer in Phoenix at www.calendly.com/irena-3 TODAY or call our office at 480-425-2009.

What is an abandonment of a green card?

If a green card holder remains outside the United States for more than a year, the regulations require invalidation of his green card (legal permanent resident status). The Department of Homeland Security takes the position that residency has been abandoned. Residency can be deemed abandoned even where a person lives and works abroad and visits the United States every year. What is relevant to determine if the green card was abandoned is the purpose of the departure, the existence of a fixed termination date for a visit abroad, and the objective intention to return to the United States as a place of permanent employment and actual home. A person may be abroad for several years and not abandon his residency if (s)he has a continuous uninterrupted intention to return to the United States. For example, a child is out of the United States for six years due to father’s heart condition.

Please note that this article does not constitute legal advice.  We simplified the law to provide only general information about the abandonment of a green card.  If you would like to discuss if you have abandoned your green card and what can be done in your situation, schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration lawyer in Phoenix at www.calendly.com/irena-3 TODAY or call our office at 480-425-2009.

H-1B approval in 1 day!

Our client, an established engineering and OEM company, wanted to hire a Controls Software Engineer, an Indian national currently on an H-1B visa. We obtained a certified labor condition application and worked with a client to document fully the eligibility for H-1B classification. The petition was filed with a request for premium processing. The USCIS received the petition on Monday and we received approval on Tuesday.

Please note that this article does not constitute legal advice.  We simplified the law to provide general information about one H-1B case.  If you would like to H-1B petition approved fast, schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration lawyer in Phoenix at www.calendly.com/irena-3 today or call our office at 480-425-2009!

Cross-border insolvency and assets in the United States

Foreign representatives of pending insolvencies abroad contact our office seeking help with reaching debtor’s assets in the United States. Depending on the concrete situation, Chapter 15 under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code may be appropriate. Chapter 15 was added to the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in 2005 and helps courts in different countries to cooperate and coordinate the administration of debtor’s assets located in different countries.

A foreign representative may petition U.S. bankruptcy court for recognition of foreign insolvency proceeding. Once the foreign main insolvency proceeding is recognized, all collections, executions against debtor’s assets and lawsuits are stopped, foreign representative may sell debtor’s assets, recover certain transfer and have other powers that allow him or her to administer debtor’s assets.

While number of Chapter 15 insolvencies increased from six in 2005 to 136 in 2009, the highest number of Chapter 15s (179) was filed in 2016. During years 2010-2019, the average number of Chapter 15 is 103.5 per years

Please note that this article does not constitute legal advice.  We simplified the law to provide general information about Chapter 15 bankruptcy.  If you would like to discuss if Chapter 15 bankruptcy will help in your situation, schedule a consultation with an experienced bankruptcy lawyer in Phoenix at www.calendly.com/irena-3 today or call our office at 480-425-2009.