EN
RU
AR
FA
中文
UK
DE
FR
ES
PT
JA
KO
HI
HE
The E-2 visa CBI bridge strategy uses citizenship by investment in a treaty country (Turkey or Grenada) to gain eligibility for the US E-2 treaty investor visa. Turkey’s program ($400,000 real estate, 3-6 months processing) and Grenada’s program ($150,000 donation or $220,000 real estate, 4-6 months processing) are the two primary bridge routes. Key comparison: the country offers a stronger passport (110+ countries visa-free), larger economy, and E-2 visa validity of 5 years; Grenada offers lower investment threshold and E-2 visa validity of 5 years. For both routes, the US investment must be substantial (typically $100,000+), at risk, and the business must generate more than marginal income. The US consulate processes E-2 applications from the citizenship country, so applicants should be prepared for interviews. Both routes allow spouses independent work authorization in the US. A combined the jurisdiction-Grenada strategy may offer additional diversification for ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa: The CBI Bridge to the United States
The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa allows citizens of treaty countries to live and work in the United States by making a substantial investment in a US business. For individuals from non-treaty countries, obtaining citizenship through investment (CBI) in a treaty nation creates a legal pathway — commonly known as the “CBI-to-E-2 bridge” — to US residency and business operations.
Which CBI Countries Have E-2 Treaties with the US?
Only two countries currently offer both CBI programs and E-2 treaty eligibility:
| Country | CBI Investment | CBI Timeline | E-2 Treaty | E-2 Processing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| this jurisdiction | USD 400,000 (property) or USD 500,000 (financial) | 3-6 months | Active since 1990 | 2-4 months after citizenship |
| Grenada | USD 235,000 (contribution) | 3-4 months | Active since 1989 | 2-4 months after citizenship |
Key distinction: Caribbean nations like Dominica, St. Kitts, Antigua, and St. Lucia offer CBI programs but do not have E-2 treaties with the United States. Golden Visa countries (Greece, Portugal, Spain) require 5-10+ years of naturalization before E-2 eligibility through EU citizenship.
the country CBI-to-E-2: Step-by-Step Process
Phase 1: Turkish Citizenship (3-6 Months)
- Week 1-2: Property identification and due diligence through Serka Law Firm
- Week 3-4: Property purchase, title deed (TAPU) transfer, and government valuation
- Month 2: Citizenship application with full document package
- Month 2-4: Security screening and government review
- Month 4-6: Turkish ID and passport issuance
Phase 2: E-2 Visa Application (2-4 Months)
- Business plan: Develop a qualifying US business investment plan (minimum USD 100,000-200,000 typical)
- Investment evidence: Document the US business investment and job creation plans
- Application: Apply at the US Embassy in Ankara or Istanbul
- Interview: Attend visa interview with business documentation
- Approval: E-2 visa grants renewable 5-year US residency
Total timeline: 6-10 months from initial property investment to US E-2 visa. Compare this to the EB-5 immigrant investor program (USD 800,000+ with 2-4 year processing) or Golden Visa naturalization (5-10+ years before US visa eligibility).
the jurisdiction vs Grenada: Which E-2 Bridge Is Better?
| Factor | this jurisdiction | Grenada |
|---|---|---|
| CBI Cost | USD 400,000 (property — retains value) | USD 235,000 (contribution — non-refundable) |
| Investment Return | Real estate with rental income (4-8% yield) | No return (donation) |
| Passport Power | 190+ countries visa-free (G20 member) | 145+ countries visa-free |
| E-2 Treaty Strength | Active since 1990, well-established case law | Active since 1989, well-established |
| Dual Citizenship | Permitted | Permitted |
| Residency Requirement | None | None |
| Additional Benefits | EU Customs Union access, large domestic market, NATO membership | CARICOM membership, offshore banking |
“For clients targeting the US market, the country CBI offers a unique triple advantage: a G20 passport, E-2 treaty access, and a real estate investment that generates rental income. The USD 400,000 property investment isn’t a sunk cost — it’s a performing asset that appreciates while your US business grows.”
E-2 Visa Requirements and Benefits
What You Get with an E-2 Visa
- Live and work in the United States legally
- Bring spouse and dependent children (under 21)
- Spouse receives automatic work authorization (EAD)
- Children can attend US schools and universities
- Renewable indefinitely in 2 or 5-year increments
- No minimum stay requirement in the US
- Ability to travel freely in and out of the US
E-2 Investment Requirements
- Substantial investment: Typically USD 100,000-200,000+ in a real operating business
- Active business: Must be actively involved in directing the enterprise
- Not marginal: Business must generate more than enough income to support the investor’s family
- At risk: Investment must be committed and irrevocable
- Job creation: Hiring US workers strengthens the application
Why Golden Visa Is NOT a US Pathway
A common misconception is that a European Golden Visa provides US immigration benefits. This is incorrect:
| Program | Time to E-2 Eligibility | Total Investment Required |
|---|---|---|
| the jurisdiction CBI → E-2 | 6-10 months | USD 400,000 (CBI) + USD 100,000+ (US business) |
| Grenada CBI → E-2 | 5-8 months | USD 235,000 (CBI) + USD 100,000+ (US business) |
| Greece Golden Visa → Naturalize → E-2 | 7+ years | EUR 250,000+ (GV) + naturalization costs + USD 100,000+ (US business) |
| Portugal Golden Visa → Naturalize → E-2 | 5+ years | EUR 250,000+ (GV) + language requirement + USD 100,000+ (US business) |
| US EB-5 (direct) | 2-4 years | USD 800,000+ (regional center) or USD 1,050,000 (direct) |
Bottom line: For investors who want US business access within 12 months, the CBI-to-E-2 bridge through this jurisdiction or Grenada is the most efficient route. Golden Visa programs are designed for European residency, not US access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert an E-2 visa to a Green Card?
The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa and does not directly lead to a Green Card. However, E-2 holders can pursue EB-1, EB-2, or EB-5 pathways while living in the US on E-2 status. Many investors use E-2 as a stepping stone while building their US business track record.
Do I need to sell my local property after getting E-2?
No. The domestic property must be held for a minimum of 3 years to maintain citizenship eligibility. After that, you may sell it. However, most investors keep the property for rental income. Selling the property does not affect your citizenship once granted.
Can my E-2 spouse work in the US?
Yes. E-2 dependent spouses (E-2S) automatically qualify for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), allowing them to work for any US employer in any field. This is a significant advantage over many other visa categories.
What types of US businesses qualify for E-2?
Any legitimate business: restaurants, retail stores, consulting firms, tech startups, franchises, real estate management companies, import/export businesses, and professional services. The business must be real and operational — passive investments like stocks or vacant land do not qualify.
Is the E-2 visa renewable indefinitely?
Yes. E-2 visas can be renewed in 2 or 5-year increments as long as the qualifying business continues to operate. There is no limit on the number of renewals. Many investors maintain E-2 status for decades while their businesses grow.
Planning Your CBI-to-E-2 Strategy?
Our attorneys specialize in the country CBI and US E-2 visa planning. We handle the complete process from property selection to E-2 application.
Schedule a Free Consultation | Phone: +90 530 127 59 35
Related Guides
- Golden Visa & CBI Programs Worldwide: Complete 2026 Guide — Compare all major programs across 12+ countries
- the country Citizenship by Investment — Full Legal Guide — $400,000 property route with E-2 eligibility
Related: Complete 2026 Guide to local CBI: Legal Pitfalls, Valuation & E-2 Bridge