E-2 Visa in Brazil: TCN Guide
While Brazil does not have an E-2 treaty with the United States, the U.S. Embassy in Brazil processes E-2 interviews for third-country nationals (TCNs) who hold citizenship in a treaty country.
What is Third-Country National (TCN) Processing?
If you are a national of an E-2 treaty country but reside in Brazil, you may be able to apply for your E-2 visa at a U.S. consular post here instead of returning to your home country. TCN processing availability and friendliness varies by post — check the TCN score for each consulate below.
U.S. Embassy in Brazil
View submission details, binder requirements, and processing information.
E-2 Visa Requirements
Treaty Nationality
You must hold citizenship in an E-2 treaty country. Brazil is not a treaty country, but TCN processing may be available.
Substantial Investment
Invest a substantial amount of capital in a bona fide U.S. enterprise. The investment must be sufficient to ensure the business's successful operation.
Active Business
The business must be a real, operating commercial enterprise — not a paper entity. It must produce goods or services for profit.
Managerial Control
You must own at least 50% of the business or have operational control through a managerial position or other corporate mechanisms.
Application Process
Complete DS-160 Online
Fill out the DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application on the CEAC website.
Pay MRV Fee
Pay the Machine Readable Visa fee through the ustraveldocs.com portal.
Schedule Interview
Book your visa interview at your chosen U.S. embassy in Brazil.
Prepare Evidence Binder
Assemble your business plan, financial documents, and supporting evidence according to your post's specific requirements.
Attend Interview
Present your case at the consular interview. Bring your evidence binder and all original documents.
Case study · U.S. Embassy Lisbon
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Brazil nationals get an E-2 visa?
Brazil does not have an E-2 treaty with the United States, so Brazil nationals are not directly eligible. However, the U.S. Embassy in Brazil may process E-2 interviews for third-country nationals (TCNs) who hold nationality from a treaty country.
What documents do I need for an E-2 visa from Brazil?
You'll need a completed DS-160, valid passport, DS-156E, proof of investment (bank statements, wire transfers, contracts), a business plan, evidence of business ownership, and supporting documents. Requirements vary by consulate — check the specific post page for format and page limit details.
What is the minimum investment for an E-2 visa?
There is no fixed minimum investment amount. The investment must be "substantial" relative to the total cost of the business. For small businesses, investments of $100,000+ are generally considered sufficient, though amounts vary by business type and industry.