yt8019

I work for a multi-national company and will be working in the US for a few months. As a UK national I thought I would need to apply for an L1 visa (intra-company transfer) but the lawyers in my company want to send an E2 visa application.

From what I've read in various forums and websites E2 is for investors or business owners so I'm wondering what are the benefits/limitations of picking E2 over L1? (I know L1 is for 5 years & E2 is for 2, and E2 is not suitable if eventually I would want a green card.)

scrubbedexpat099

What did the lawyer say when you asked?

E2 has no time limit, it can be renewed ad infinitum.

ian-mstm

Since you're only going to be in the US for a few months, why would it matter if either visa leads to a GC or not? I suggest a B-1 visa.

Ian

emartin

If you will be actually working and providing a benefit to the US company, you will need an E or L (or other non visitor) status. Perhaps you don't qualify for L-1 - maybe the lawyers don't think you are managerial or specialized knowledge, or maybe you haven't worked for the company for a year.

The E-2 is for people from a certain treaty country, coming to work in the US for a company owned by nationals of the same treaty country. The E-2 holder does not have to own the business or be an investor. Your could get an E-2 to start your own business, or you could get an E-2 to work for a British-owned company.