The E visa enables the beneficiary to live and work in the United States based on an investment in a U.S. business. The E visa is available only to certain treaty nationals whose country has signed a treaty of commerce with the United States. The visa is for investors who seek to open a business in the U.S. and employ U.S. citizens. The investment must be substantial, and the investor’s money must be at risk, and it cannot be a passive investment such as the mere purchase of real estate. The investor must direct and supervise the business. The Department of State can issue these visas at a consulate, without a prior petition approval from USCIS. One benefit of the visa is that children under 21 and spouses are eligible for E-2 status as derivatives, and E-2 spouses are eligible to work in the United States.