E-2 treaty investor visas for French Citizens.
France is an E-2 treaty country, so French nationals can invest in and run a U.S. business on an E-2 — from hospitality to importing French products. Here’s what French investors should know.
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What matters most for your case.
The fundamentals are the same wherever you’re from — but the angle that wins differs by background. Here’s what tends to matter for France investors.
France qualifies
France is a long-standing E-2 treaty country, so French nationals are eligible to invest and run a U.S. business.
Where French E-2s cluster
French applicants frequently open restaurants, bakeries, and hospitality ventures, or import and distribute French food, wine, design, and luxury goods.
Showing real viability
For smaller hospitality businesses, the case has to clear the “marginality” bar — proving the business will do more than provide a minimal living. We build the plan to show genuine capacity.
Why the E-2 works well from France.
French entrepreneurs are especially active in U.S. hospitality and in importing French products — sectors where the business plan and projected job creation do a lot of the persuasive work in an E-2 filing.
Because many of these ventures start small, we pay particular attention to the “not marginal” requirement: the business must be capable of generating more than just enough to support you and your family.
Counsel that’s done this before.
Senior attorneys on every file
Led by founding attorney Neil Jalota, our team has worked with firms like Fragomen, Vialto, EY and PwC — and brings that rigor to your case.
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Approval & Beyond
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What french citizens ask about the E-2.
Is France an E-2 treaty country?
Yes. France maintains a qualifying E-2 treaty with the United States.
Can a restaurant or bakery be an E-2 business?
Yes — hospitality businesses are common E-2 ventures. The key is a credible plan showing the business is substantial and not merely marginal.
Can I build an E-2 around importing French products?
Often yes. Import and distribution businesses can qualify when the investment is substantial and the operation is real and active.
Where do French applicants apply?
Many apply through the U.S. Embassy in Paris; those in the U.S. in another status may be able to change status.
E-2 resources
Other practice areas
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