Case Studies

U.S. Visa E-2 Individual Investor Visa Extension Approved via U.S. Embassy in Korea

22 Jan 2026

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A client who was originally approved for an E-2 investor visa in 2020 has successfully received an extension of their E-2 visa. 


At the time in 2020, we assisted the client in acquiring a restaurant in the United States and applying for an E-2 investor visa. After establishing a U.S. corporation, opening a corporate bank account, and transferring investment funds from Korea, the client completed the acquisition process. They were then granted an E-2 visa valid for five years.  


Over the past five years, the client increased both the restaurant’s revenue and the number of employees, demonstrating the managerial capability required for an E-2 visa extension. During the recent visa extension interview, the consular officer approved the extension without asking difficult questions.  


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💡 Key Factors in E-2 Investor Visa Approval 


When applying for an E-2 individual investor visa, the U.S. Embassy evaluates:

- The applicant’s nationality
- Investment amount and source of funds
- Operational status of the U.S. business
- The investor’s managerial ability
- The business’s tax filings 


 

💡 Important Considerations for E-2 Visa Applications


When applying after establishing a new business or acquiring an existing one, the most critical factor is the investor’s managerial capability.

The most common reason for denial is a lack of relevant experience related to the U.S. business. Therefore, applicants without prior business experience should prepare in advance by:

- Gaining relevant work experience, or
- Obtaining certifications related to the business 


 

💡 Key Factor for E-2 Visa Extension


When renewing an E-2 visa, the most important factor is the business’s revenue and profitability.
Higher revenue and profits allow:

- Maintaining a sufficient number of employees
- Paying the investor a reasonable salary

Because of this, applicants should be cautious about underreporting revenue to reduce taxes, as strong financial records are important for visa renewal. 



Professionals

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Jungyong Park, Esq.

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