Turkish Passport and the US E-2 Investor Visa: How It Works

Türkiye is one of the countries whose citizens can apply for the US E-2 Treaty Investor visa. Many nationalities, including citizens of mainland China, are not eligible for the E-2 on their own passport. This is why some investors consider Turkish citizenship by investment as a first step.

What is the E-2 visa? The E-2 allows a citizen of a treaty country to live in the US to develop and direct a business in which they have made a substantial investment. It is renewable as long as the business continues, but it is not a green card.

Step 1: Turkish citizenship Turkish citizenship by investment is available through a property purchase of at least USD 400,000 or a bank deposit of at least USD 500,000, held for three years. Spouses and children under 18 can usually be included.

Step 2: The US business After receiving a Turkish passport, the applicant invests in a real, operating US business and applies for the E-2 at a US consulate. The US side has its own requirements, so you will also need a US immigration attorney.

Things to plan for - Timing: citizenship processing takes several months, so plan both steps together. - Ties: US consulates may review your connection to Türkiye, so keep your Turkish documents in order. - Family: E-2 dependants can include a spouse and unmarried children under 21.

How Legit Law can help We handle the Turkish citizenship side from start to passport, and coordinate with your US attorney so both steps fit together. [Talk to us](/contact) about your timeline.

*US visa rules are decided by US authorities; please consult a licensed US immigration attorney for the E-2 application. This article is general information only, not legal advice.*