For entrepreneurs and investors from countries like Vietnam, India, or China, the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa is frustratingly out of reach. Why? Because these nations do not have a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States—making their citizens ineligible to apply directly for the E-2 visa.
But here’s where a little-known legal workaround comes into play. Through a process known as citizenship by investment, individuals from non-treaty countries can acquire citizenship in a country that does have a treaty with the U.S.—like Grenada—and then apply for the E-2 visa using their new nationality.
This path is completely legal, relatively quick, and far less expensive than other long-term U.S. immigration options like the EB-5 visa.
Step 1: Obtain Grenadian Citizenship Through Investment
Grenada is one of the few countries in the world that:
- Has an active E-2 treaty with the United States
- Allows dual citizenship
- Offers a fast-track investment program with no physical residency requirements
In as little as 3 to 6 months, you can become a Grenadian citizen through one of the following options:
Option 1: Donation to the National Transformation Fund
- Cost: Starts at $235,000 for a single applicant or a family of up to four
- Type: Non-refundable contribution
- Speed: Fastest route to citizenship
Option 2: Real Estate Investment
- Cost: Minimum $270,000 in a government-approved project
- Additional Fees: Due diligence, legal, and government processing fees
- Hold Period: Must keep the property for at least 5 years
Once approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Naturalization, and shortly after, a Grenadian passport.
Step 2: Apply for the U.S. E-2 Visa Using Your New Citizenship
With your Grenadian passport in hand, you’re now eligible to apply for a U.S. E-2 visa. The E-2 allows you to:
- Live and work in the U.S.
- Start or buy a U.S.-based business
- Bring your spouse and children under 21
- Spouses can work freely in the U.S.; children can attend school without needing a separate visa
E-2 Investment Requirements (Separate from Grenadian CBI):
- Minimum investment: Typically $100,000–$200,000, depending on the business
- The investment must be active and at risk (not passive income)
- You must own at least 50% of the U.S. business
Why This Is a Game-Changer for Non-Treaty Nationals
For many from Vietnam, India, China, Russia, South Africa, and other non-treaty countries, this Grenada-to-E-2 strategy is a fast-track to the U.S. that:
- Avoids the long waiting times of EB-5 (which can take 5+ years)
- Requires less capital (EB-5 minimum is $800,000)
- Has no backlog or nationality caps
- Offers renewable E-2 visas (often 5 years at a time, indefinitely)
Passport Application & Final Steps
Once you’re a citizen of Grenada, applying for a passport is straightforward. You’ll need:
- Your certificate of citizenship
- Valid ID and passport-sized photos
- Completed application form
- Payment of fees (approx. $350 for ePassports issued outside Grenada)
You can apply through a local Grenadian embassy or consulate, or via authorized agents.
Final Thoughts: A Loophole That Works
For ambitious investors from non-treaty countries, this legal backdoor—via Grenadian citizenship—offers a real shot at entering the U.S. market quickly and lawfully. You’re not cutting corners; you’re using the system strategically.
So, if you’re dreaming of building a life or business in the U.S. and your home country doesn’t qualify for the E-2, don’t give up. Change your passport, change your future.