E-2 treaty investor visas for Japanese Citizens.
Japan is an E-2 treaty country — and one of the most active. Japanese investors and companies (including their essential employees) can use the E-2 to run a U.S. business. Here’s what to 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 Japan investors.
Japan qualifies
Japan is consistently among the highest-volume E-2 nationalities, so the path is very well established for Japanese investors and companies.
Not just owners
A Japanese-owned U.S. business can also sponsor “essential employees” for E-2 status — useful for transferring specialized staff, not only the investor.
Structuring through a company
Where a Japanese company makes the investment, at least 50% must be owned by Japanese nationals; we align ownership and documentation so the treaty nationality is clear.
Why the E-2 works well from Japan.
Japan generates one of the largest volumes of E-2 cases worldwide, and Japanese companies frequently use the E-2 not only for owners but for essential employees with specialized skills who run the U.S. operation.
When a corporation rather than an individual is the investor, the nationality of the company’s ownership controls eligibility — so we confirm the ownership chain early and document it precisely.
Counsel that’s done this before.
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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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What japanese citizens ask about the E-2.
Is Japan an E-2 treaty country?
Yes. Japan maintains an E-2 treaty with the United States and is among the most common E-2 nationalities.
Can employees of a Japanese company get an E-2?
Yes. A qualifying E-2 business can sponsor “essential employees” who share the treaty nationality, in addition to the investor.
Can a company — not just a person — make the investment?
Yes, provided the company is at least 50% owned by Japanese nationals, which establishes the treaty nationality of the enterprise.
Where do Japanese applicants apply?
Many apply through the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo; preparation in both Japanese and English is often part of the process.
E-2 resources
Other practice areas
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