Top 56 US E2 Visa Interview Questions in 2026+ Answers
- Published by Max-B.
- January 28, 2026
- 19 min read
Table of Contents
Let’s be honest. The E-2 visa interview can make even confident business owners nervous. You’ve invested real money. You’ve built a real business. And now one short interview feels like it holds everything together. That pressure is real, and you’re not alone in feeling it. The good news is that if you practice answering the US E2 visa interview questions, the interview will feel like a business chat for you.
The officer just wants to understand what you do, how you invested, and whether your plan actually makes sense. No tricks. No surprise questions. Visa Library will break the interview down into simple question groups to help you answer like a normal human, and not like a robot reading a business plan.
What Is the Purpose of the E-2 Visa Interview?
The purpose of the E-2 visa interview is to decide whether you qualify to enter the U.S. as a treaty investor and actively run a business. The visa officer uses the interview to confirm that your investment is real, at risk, and substantial, and that you are the right person to direct and develop the business. During the interview, you can expect US E2 visa interview questions about your business, your investment, your role in daily operations, your source of funds, and your future plans.
The E-2 visa interview is for investors and entrepreneurs from E-2 treaty countries who have invested, or are actively in the process of investing, in a U.S. business. It applies to both first-time applicants and renewals, and it is required for anyone seeking to enter the U.S. under E-2 status.
The Latest E2 Visa Interview Questions in 2026 and How to Answer Them
During the interview for this US investment visa, officers follow a pattern. They ask US E2 visa interview questions in specific categories to understand your case. These questions are not random. Each one has a purpose. Once you understand these categories, you’ll know what to expect and how to answer without overthinking or panicking.
Business Overview and Viability Questions
What does your company do?
The officer is checking if you can explain your business in a clear and simple way. You should describe your business in one or two sentences, focusing on what you actually do. For example, you can say your company provides digital marketing services to small businesses in the U.S. and helps them get more customers through online ads and websites.
Who are your customers?
The officer wants to see that real people or businesses buy from you. You can explain who typically pays you, such as small business owners, startups, or local companies. For example, you may say your customers are small retail and service businesses that need help growing online.
What products or services do you offer?
This US E2 visa interview question checks if you know exactly what you are selling. You should list your main services or products without using complicated words. For example, you may say you offer website design, monthly marketing management, and paid advertising services.
Where is the business located, and why did you choose this location?
The officer wants to know if the location makes sense for your business. You should mention the city and state and give a clear reason. For example, you may say your business is located in Texas because operating costs are lower and many of your clients are based there.
Is the business already operational?
This confirms whether the business is active or only planned. If it is running, you can say yes and mention sales or clients. For example, you may say the business is already operating and has signed contracts with several clients.
Who is your target market?
This US E2 visa interview question checks if you understand who you are trying to reach. You should clearly describe your ideal customer. For example, you can say you focus on small businesses in California with fewer than 20 employees who need affordable marketing services.
How does your business generate revenue?
This question checks if your business can actually make money. You should explain how customers pay you. For example, you can say clients pay monthly service fees or per-project fees for your services.
What are your pricing models or price points?
The officer wants to see realistic and reasonable pricing. You can mention your typical prices in simple terms. For example, you may say your monthly service packages range from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on the level of service.
What are your 3- to 5-year revenue or growth projections?
This US E2 visa interview question shows whether you have planned for the future. You should give realistic numbers. For example, you may say you expect steady growth and plan to reach a specific annual revenue by expanding your client base each year.
Who are your main competitors?
The officer wants to know if you understand your market. You can name a few competitors and keep it simple. For example, you may say you compete with other small marketing agencies offering similar services in the same region.
What makes your business different from competitors?
This US E2 visa interview question checks whether your business has a real advantage. You should explain your main strength honestly. For example, you may say your business focuses on personalized service and lower prices, which helps you attract small businesses that cannot afford large agencies.
Questions about Investment and Source of Funds
Can you show proof of how the funds were transferred to the U.S.?
The officer wants to confirm that the money was moved legally and properly. You can explain that the funds were transferred through bank wires and that you have bank statements and transfer receipts to show the full trail.
How much money have you invested so far?
This US E2 visa interview question checks whether your investment is substantial enough for the business. You should state the total amount you have invested clearly and confidently. For example, you may say you have invested $150,000 into the business since opening it.
Was this investment your own money? If not, where did it come from?
This question checks the legality of the funds. You should explain honestly whether the money was from savings, business income, property sale, or a gift, and confirm that you can prove it with documents.
What expenses have you paid so far?
The officer wants to see that the money is already at risk. You can list major expenses such as office rent, equipment, licenses, marketing, or employee salaries.
What specifically has the money been spent on?
This US E2 visa interview question checks whether the spending makes sense for your business. You should describe how the funds were used in a practical way, such as paying for office setup, software, inventory, or professional services.
What is your remaining working capital?
The officer wants to know if you still have enough funds to operate. You can say how much money is left in the business account and explain that it is reserved for ongoing expenses.
What do you plan to spend money on next quarter?
The officer wants to see future planning. You should explain upcoming expenses like hiring employees, marketing campaigns, inventory purchases, or business expansion.
How long can the business operate with your current funds?
This US E2 visa interview question checks business stability. You can explain how many months the business can run without new income, based on current expenses and available funds.
If you want a professional review of your E-2 documents before the interview, Visa Library offers Premium US E2 Visa Consultation to make sure everything is interview-ready.
Ownership and Treaty Nationality Questions
What percentage of the business do you own?
This question checks whether you meet the ownership requirement. You should clearly state your ownership percentage. For example, you may say you own 100 percent of the business or a majority share that gives you control.
Are you a citizen of an E-2 treaty country?
The officer is confirming treaty eligibility. You should answer yes and mention your country of citizenship, making sure it matches your passport and application.
Who are the other owners, if any?
This US E2 visa interview question checks whether there are partners or shareholders involved. You can list the other owners by name and explain their role briefly, or say there are no other owners if you are the sole owner.
What are the nationalities of the other owners?
The officer wants to confirm treaty compliance. You should state the nationalities clearly and ensure that treaty nationals own at least 50 percent of the business.
Who controls the business decisions?
This US E2 visa interview question checks who actually runs the company. You should explain that you control daily operations and major decisions. For example, you can say you make final decisions on hiring, spending, and strategy.
Question about Your Role
What is your role in the company?
The officer wants to know your position and level of responsibility. You should clearly explain your role and authority. For example, you might say you are the owner and managing director, and you are responsible for daily operations, strategy, and overall business growth.
What will you do day to day?
This US E2 visa interview question checks if you are hands-on in the business. You can describe your daily routine in simple terms. For example, you may say you manage client relationships, oversee employees, review finances, and plan marketing and growth activities.
Are you involved in major business decisions?
The officer is checking who really controls the company. You should explain that you make important decisions. For example, you could say you decide on hiring, budgets, pricing, partnerships, and long-term plans.
Is this your full-time focus?
This US E2 visa interview question confirms whether you are fully committed to the business. You can say that the business is your full-time job. For example, you may explain that you work full-time on the U.S. business and do not treat it as a side project.
Are you keeping another job outside the U.S.?
The officer wants to see if your attention is divided. You should answer honestly and explain your situation clearly. For example, you may say you ended your previous job and are now fully focused on operating the U.S. business.
How will you manage tasks you don’t personally handle?
This US E2 visa interview question checks whether your business has a structure. You can explain how you delegate. For example, you may say that employees or contractors handle technical or routine tasks while you supervise their work and make final decisions.
How will you oversee employees and operations?
The officer wants to see how you manage people. You can explain your management approach. For example, you may say you hold regular meetings, review performance, track results, and stay involved in daily operations.
Questions about Operations and Market Strategy
What exactly are you selling?
The officer wants a clear picture of your offer. You should explain your product or service in simple words. A natural answer sounds like: “We provide monthly IT support and cloud management services to small businesses.”
How will you reach your customers?
This US E2 visa interview question checks if you know how customers actually find you. A clear answer could be: “We reach customers through Google ads, referrals from existing clients, and direct outreach to local businesses.”
What marketing or sales strategy will you use?
The officer wants to hear a real plan, not a theory. A strong answer sounds like: “Our main strategy is digital marketing, content, and partnerships with local service providers.”
What does your sales cycle look like?
This US E2 visa interview question checks whether your process makes sense. You can explain it simply, such as: “A customer contacts us, we give a demo, send a proposal, and close the deal within two to four weeks.”
How do customers find you?
The officer wants to know how demand is created. A natural answer could be: “Most customers find us through online searches and referrals from past clients.”
How do you plan to scale the business?
This US E2 visa interview question checks future growth planning. A realistic answer sounds like: “We plan to hire more staff, increase marketing spend, and expand into nearby states as revenue grows.”
Questions about Employees and Job Creation
How many employees do you currently have?
The officer wants to see that the business has real activity. A clear answer sounds like: “We currently have three employees working in operations and customer support.”
How many of them are U.S. workers?
This US E2 visa interview question checks whether the business benefits U.S. workers. A natural answer could be: “All three employees are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.”
Do you plan to hire more employees? When?
The officer is looking for future job creation. A strong answer sounds like: “Yes, we plan to hire two more employees within the next 12 months as the business grows.”
How will the business earn more than just a living for you and your family?
The officer wants to see long-term viability. A confident answer sounds like: “The business is designed to grow through increased clients and staff, allowing it to generate enough revenue to support multiple employees, not just me.”
What roles will you hire first, and why?
This US E2 visa interview question checks whether hiring plans make business sense. A realistic answer could be: “We plan to hire a sales manager first because demand is increasing and we need support to grow revenue.”
If you want expert help preparing for your E-2 visa interview, Visa Library offers Premium Visa Consultation to help you present a strong and well-organized case.
Background and Qualifications Questions
What experience do you have related to this business?
The officer wants to see relevant experience, not just interest. You can explain how your past work, education, or previous businesses relate directly to what you are doing now.
What is your professional background?
This US E2 visa interview question checks your career history. You should briefly describe your past roles and industries. For example, you can say you have worked for several years in management and business development in the same field.
Why are you qualified to run this company?
This checks whether you have the skills to succeed. You should explain your strengths in simple terms, such as leadership, industry knowledge, or hands-on experience running similar operations.
Why this business instead of another one?
This US E2 visa interview question checks planning and intent. You should explain why this business model fits your background and goals better than other options, showing that the choice was thoughtful and planned.
Why did you choose this specific industry?
The officer wants to know if your choice makes sense. You can explain that you understand the industry, see demand in the U.S. market, and have experience that fits well.
Question about Your Intent and Length of Stay
Why do you want an E-2 visa?
The officer wants to understand your purpose in the U.S. You should explain that the E-2 visa allows you to develop and run your business in the U.S. while contributing to the economy, without suggesting permanent immigration plans.
Do you plan to live in the U.S. permanently?
This US E2 visa interview question checks your intent. You should clearly state that you do not plan to live in the U.S. permanently and that your stay is tied to your E-2 business activities.
What will you do when your E-2 status ends?
The officer wants to see a realistic exit plan. You can explain that you will either renew the E-2 if eligible or return to your home country to continue business or personal plans.
Do you plan to maintain ties outside the U.S.?
This US E2 visa interview question checks whether you have reasons to leave the U.S. later. You should mention ongoing ties such as property, family, business interests, or financial commitments outside the U.S.
Where will you live while operating the business?
The officer wants to see practical planning. You can explain that you will live near the business location to manage operations efficiently.
Do you understand that the E-2 is a non-immigrant visa?
This US E2 visa interview question confirms your awareness of visa limits. You should confirm that you understand the E-2 is temporary and does not automatically lead to permanent residence.
Family and Dependents Questions
Do you plan to bring your spouse or children?
The officer wants to know who will accompany you for this US visa. You can explain whether you plan to bring your family now, later, or not at all.
What will your spouse do in the U.S.?
This US E2 visa interview question checks understanding of dependent rules. You can explain that your spouse may apply for work authorization or focus on family or studies, depending on your plan.
Where will your family live?
The officer wants to see family arrangements. You can explain that your family will live with you near the business location in suitable housing.
Document Checklist for the E-2 Visa Interview
Aside from practicing answering US E2 visa interview questions, you need to know what to bring to the interview. Carry originals and copies of all these documents:
- A valid passport with sufficient validity
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa interview appointment confirmation
- Visa fee payment receipt
- Recent U.S. visa–compliant photos
- E-2 business registration documents
- Articles of incorporation or operating agreement
- Proof of ownership showing at least 50% treaty-national ownership
- Business licenses and permits
- Detailed business plan
- Proof that the business is active or ready to operate
- Investment proof showing funds are at risk
- Bank statements related to the investment
- Wire transfer receipts and payment records
- Source of funds documents, such as savings, sale agreements, or gift letters
- Expense receipts for rent, equipment, inventory, or services
- Lease agreement for office or business location
- Employee records or hiring plan
- Payroll records, if employees are already hired
- Financial projections and revenue forecasts
- Proof of your role in managing the business
- Resume or CV showing relevant experience
- Proof of ties outside the U.S.
- Family documents if dependents are applying
- Optional cover letter summarizing your case and documents
Officers may not ask for every document, but missing one key item can slow or hurt your case.
Essential Tips for Success in an E-2 Visa Interview
These practical tips can make a real difference during your interview or when answering the US E2 visa interview questions:
- Know your business well and be ready to explain it in simple words.
- Make sure your answers match your business plan and documents.
- Be clear about where your investment came from and how it was spent.
- Show that you are actively running the business, not just investing money.
- Keep your answers short, direct, and natural.
- Do not exaggerate numbers or future plans.
- Stay calm if the officer asks follow-up or repeated questions.
- Bring all financial and business documents neatly organized.
- Be honest about your intent and understand that the E-2 visa is temporary.
- Dress professionally and speak confidently, even if your English is basic.
- Do not offer extra details unless you are asked.
- If you do not understand a question, politely ask for clarification.
Let’s Recap
During the E-2 visa interview, officers want to see a real business, real money, and a real person who knows what they’re doing. Most E-2 refusals don’t happen because the business is bad. They happen because the applicant wasn’t ready to answer the US E2 visa interview questions clearly. Preparation turns stress into confidence, and confidence shows.
If you want to walk into your interview feeling prepared instead of panicked, Visa Library is here to help. We review your business, your investment story, and your answers so you’re not guessing in front of the officer. You can book a Premium Consultation with Visa Library and get personal, practical guidance.
FAQs
How difficult is it to get an E-2 visa?
It is not difficult if your investment is real, your business is active, and your documents are well prepared. Most refusals happen due to weak documentation or unclear answers.
Is there an interview for an EB-2 visa?
Yes, but the EB-2 visa is a completely different immigrant visa. The E-2 is a non-immigrant investor visa, and the interview process and questions are very different.
How should I prepare for the E-2 visa interview?
You should know your business, your investment details, your role, and your source of funds. Review your documents and practice explaining everything in simple words.
What types of questions are commonly asked during the E-2 visa interview?
Questions usually fall into categories like your business model, investment amount and source, ownership and nationality, your role in the company, job creation, future plans, and non-immigrant intent.
Can I bring an attorney to my E-2 visa interview?
No, attorneys are generally not allowed inside the interview room, but they can help you prepare before the interview.
What happens if my E-2 visa is denied after the interview?
The officer will explain the reason or give a refusal letter. In many cases, you can reapply after fixing the issue and strengthening your documents.
How long does the E-2 visa interview usually take?
Most E-2 interviews last between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on the case and the officer.
What should I do if I don’t know the answer to a question during the interview?
Stay calm and be honest. It’s better to say you’re not sure than to guess or give incorrect information.
What is the success rate of U.S. E-2 visas?
There is no officially published success rate, but well-prepared E-2 applications with strong documentation are commonly approved.
- Author
- Max-B.
- January 28, 2026

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