Route to the USA: How We Use a Turkish Passport to Access the US E-2 Investor Visa

When clients ask us about moving to the United States, many assume the conversation starts with the EB-5 program.

It doesn’t. One of the first questions we ask is:

“Does your current nationality qualify for the US E-2 Investor Visa?”

For many investors, the answer is no. However, there is another strategy that is often overlooked.

Through Turkish Citizenship by Investment, you may become eligible to apply for the US E-2 Investor Visa because Turkey is one of the treaty countries recognized by the United States. For the right investor, this can be a faster and more flexible route to establish a business presence in the US.

Content Overview

Why We Consider Turkey a Strategic Passport

We don’t recommend second citizenship simply to own another passport.

We recommend it when it creates new opportunities.

The Turkish passport is one of the few investment citizenships that can unlock access to the US E-2 Visa, making it particularly attractive for entrepreneurs, business owners, and globally mobile families.

Instead of looking at Turkey as the destination, we see it as part of a broader international strategy.

Sometimes, the passport is not the goal.

It’s the key that opens the next door.

How the Strategy Works

The process is straightforward.

Step 1: Obtain Turkish Citizenship by Investment.

The most popular option is investing at least USD 400,000 in qualifying real estate and holding the investment for a minimum of three years.

Once approved, you receive Turkish citizenship and a Turkish passport.

Step 2: Apply for the US E-2 Investor Visa.

With Turkish citizenship, you may establish or acquire a qualifying business in the United States and submit an E-2 application.

Approval depends on meeting all US immigration requirements, not simply holding a Turkish passport.

What Makes the E-2 Visa Attractive?

We often recommend the E-2 pathway for entrepreneurs who want flexibility rather than immediate permanent residency.

Some of the key advantages include:

• No fixed minimum investment required by law
• Faster processing than many other US investor programs
• Ability to live and operate a business in the United States
• Spouse may work in the US
• Children may attend school in the US
• Renewable indefinitely, provided the business continues to meet E-2 requirements

For many investors, this creates an excellent platform to expand internationally while maintaining business flexibility.

How Much Do You Need to Invest?

This is one of the biggest misconceptions.

The E-2 Visa does not have an official minimum investment amount. Instead, US authorities evaluate whether your investment is substantial in relation to the business you are operating. The focus is not simply how much you invest, but whether the business is genuine, active, and capable of generating commercial activity.

Does Buying Property in the US Qualify?

Not usually. Purchasing residential real estate as a passive investment generally does not qualify for an E-2 Visa. The investment should be made into an active business that you will develop and direct.

Is the E-2 a Green Card?

NO. The E-2 Visa is a non-immigrant visa.

However, many investors use it as a practical first step while developing a long-term US immigration strategy. Depending on your future goals, there may be opportunities to transition to other immigration pathways later.

Who Should Consider This Strategy?

In our experience, this pathway is best suited for:

• Entrepreneurs expanding into the US market
• International business owners
• High-net-worth families seeking greater global mobility
• Investors building a diversified citizenship portfolio
• Individuals who value flexibility over immediate permanent residency

The right strategy is never about choosing the “best” passport. It’s about choosing the passport that best supports your long-term objectives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for the E-2 immediately after receiving Turkish citizenship?

Yes, provided you meet all US E-2 eligibility requirements and have established or acquired a qualifying business.

Is there a guaranteed investment amount?

No. Each application is assessed individually based on the nature of the business and the level of investment.

Can my family accompany me?

Yes. Your spouse and eligible children may be included under the E-2 Visa. Spouses are generally eligible to work in the United States.

Is Turkish Citizenship by Investment only useful for the E-2 Visa?

No. In our view, the Turkish passport offers value beyond the E-2. It provides greater global mobility, business flexibility, and access to one of the world’s most dynamic investment markets.es.

In our view, the Turkish passport offers value beyond the E-2. It provides greater global mobility, business flexibility, and access to one of the world’s most dynamic investment markets.es.

Collaborate With Lemy Wealth

Lemy Wealth partners with licensed immigration and citizenship advisory firms, international real estate developers, wealth managers, private banks, family offices, tax and legal professionals, corporate service providers, and independent referral partners to deliver trusted investment migration solutions worldwide.

If you’re looking to expand your portfolio with Turkish Citizenship by Investment, the US E-2 Visa pathway, or other global residency and citizenship programs, we welcome strategic partnerships built on expertise, transparency, and long-term success..