E-2 Treaty Investor Visa FAQ: Melbourne

Last Updated: September 2026 Updated Melbourne E2 visa FAQ
Written by: Mark I. Davies, Esq., MBA (Wharton School), Fellow University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School. Ga. Bar License #: 283816, AILA Member, SRA ID: #384468.
Reviewed by: Sukanya Raman, Esq., Managing Attorney Davies & Associates, India

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What is Frequently Asked Questions: E-2 Visas in Melbourne?

Can Australian Citizens Apply for an E-2 Visa in Melbourne? Yes. Australia maintains a qualifying treaty with the United States. Investors from Melbourne, Victoria, and across Australia can apply at the U.S. Consulate for an E-2 visa to develop and direct a U.S. business.
What is a "Substantial Investment" for Melbourne Applicants? While there is no fixed minimum, the investment must be "substantial" relative to the business type (9 FAM 402.9-6). For many Melbourne startups and tech firms, we focus on proving the investment is sufficient to ensure successful operations.
How does Intellectual Property (IP) factor into an E-2 Application? Melbourne tech and biotech firms often use IP as part of their investment. Under 9 FAM 402.9-6(C), transferred or licensed IP can count as an asset, provided it is properly valued and legally assigned to the U.S. entity.
What is the current E-2 Visa Validity for Australians? Typically, E-2 visas for Australian nationals are issued for up to 4 or 5 years and can be renewed indefinitely, provided the business continues to meet requirements.
Do I need to hire U.S. workers immediately? The business must not be "marginal" (9 FAM 402.9-6(E)). While you don’t need a large staff on day one, your Melbourne-prepared business plan must show the capacity to hire U.S. workers within five years.
Melbourne-Based E-2 Strategy: Our team specialized in assisting Victorian entrepreneurs with U.S. market entry. Contact our US immigration lawyers in Australia at +61 2 9156 1032 for a strategy session.

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