Le Visa E-2 quand on est influenceur

The E-2 Visa: Transforming Your Influence into a U.S. Enterprise

For many content creators and influencers, the United States represents the ultimate market. However, securing the "Talent" visa (O-1) can often feel like an uphill battle, requiring proof of international awards or major distinctions.

What if the solution wasn't to prove you are a "star," but to demonstrate that you are an entrepreneur? This is where the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa comes into play.

Why the E-2 is a Strategic Alternative to the O-1

The O-1 visa is based on your past notoriety. The E-2 visa, however, is based on your future project. For a content creator, the strategy shifts from presenting yourself as an individual to establishing a production or marketing agency in the U.S.

Instead of betting on the recognition of your "extraordinary ability," you invest in a real commercial structure: a "U.S. Enterprise."

How to "Invest" in a Content Creation Business

A recurring question is: "What do I invest in when my business is digital?". For an E-2 visa, the investment must be substantial and "at risk." Here is how a creator can structure their investment:

• Production Equipment: Purchasing high-performance cameras, drones, lighting systems, and professional studio gear.

• Office or Studio Lease: A commercial lease for a filming or editing space in hubs like Miami, Los Angeles, or New York.

• Human Resources: Hiring a video editor, a community manager, or a local talent agent based in the U.S.

• Marketing and Branding: Costs associated with developing the American brand, website creation, and legal consulting fees.

  
  

The Three Pillars of Success for the Influencer-Investor

To convince the consular officer, your file must rest on three key points:

1. The Legal Entity: Create a LLC or a Corporation owned at least 50% by nationals of a treaty country (such as France).

   
   

2. Substantial Investment: While there is no fixed minimum, an investment ranging from $70,000 to $80,000 is generally considered a solid baseline for service-based industries.

   
   

3. Non-Marginality: Your business plan must demonstrate that the company will not only generate enough income to support you, but that it will grow and employ U.S. workers within 5 years.

   
   

The Major Advantage: Family Flexibility

Unlike other visas, the E-2 allows your spouse to obtain an open work authorization in the U.S. and your children to attend American schools. It offers a complete life project while capitalizing on your existing American audience.

The Bottom Line

Transforming your personal brand into an American production agency is a bold strategy that professionalizes your activity in the eyes of U.S. Immigration. By moving from influencer status to business owner, you not only secure your right to reside in the United States but also build a sustainable structure in the world’s most dynamic market. The Deltin Law Firm assists you in structuring this investment and drafting a legal narrative that highlights your intangible assets.

Contact us to analyze together whether your current equipment purchases and production costs can be credited toward your E-2 investment total.