Maximize Your E-2 Visa: Family Employment Options

Build Your American Dream Together

Welcome to Part 3 of the Law Offices of Chris M. Ingram’s E-2 Visa series! We’re excited to explore employment opportunities for you, your spouse (including same-sex spouses), and children under the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa.

Can the Principal Investor Work Outside the E-2 Business?

Possibly! As the E-2 visa holder, you can secure contracts for your business, like John, who owns a web design firm and takes on design projects. Working onsite as an independent contractor is allowed if you still meet the E-2 requirement of generating at least two full-time U.S. jobs. However, you cannot take a separate employee job (e.g., web developer) while owning an unrelated E-2 business like a coffee shop. Consult us to navigate these rules.

Spouse Work Permits

A key E-2 benefit: your spouse can obtain a work permit to pursue any U.S. career. Strategize as a couple—consider which spouse’s career or qualifications (e.g., high salary or advanced degrees) could lead to employer-sponsored Green Cards, benefiting the entire family, including children under 21. Since 2013, same-sex spouses qualify equally for federal immigration benefits.

Children’s Work Restrictions

Children cannot get work permits under the E-2 visa, impacting teens over 14 eager for part-time jobs. Discuss this with your family. College students may qualify for work permits after their first year, depending on finances. At 21, children must secure their own visa or partner in your E-2 business (50% ownership) to stay involved.

Start Your E-2 Journey

Like our clients Rob and Jilly, a stable E-2 business offers immediate income security. Stay tuned for Part 4 on substantial investments. Contact us for a free consultation to tailor your E-2 visa and family strategy for U.S. success today!

General Overview – E Visa USA Options

E2 Part 1 – E2 Investment Visa Requirements

E2 Part 2 – E2 Visa Treaty Countries

E2 Part 3 – E2 Spouse or Employee Visa

E2 Part 4 – E2 Visa USA Minimum Investment Amount

E2 Part 5 – Finding the Right E2 Visa Business for Sale

E2 Part 6 – Retirement, E2 Visa to Green Card Process

E2 Part 7 – E2 Visa Renewal Requirements

E2 Part 8 – Investor Immigration USA Requirements Summary

Chris M. Ingram, a U.S. Immigration Attorney, is originally from Northampton, England. He earned his BA (Hons) in Law from De Montfort University, Leicester, UK, in 1994. In 1996, he completed his Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (PGDLP) at De Montfort School of Law, followed by a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from Huddersfield University, UK, in 1998. After relocating to the United States, Chris was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2003 and has been a proud member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) since 2004.

Having experienced the U.S. immigration process firsthand with his wife and three children, Chris M. Ingram founded his law firm with a mission to ensure that every client receives the best possible immigration experience. He recognized the need for accessible and comprehensive immigration education, leading him to develop one of the most informative online platforms available today.

The Law Offices of Chris M. Ingram website now features:

1. Over 1,000 pages of immigration resources
2. Hundreds of educational videos on visa and green card options
3. Client success stories and testimonials to inspire new applicants

We continually update and expand our content to keep visitors informed about the latest immigration policies, visa options, and legal strategies.