The E-2 Visa Interview at Toronto Consulate

The final step in the E-2 visa process is the interview at the U.S. Consulate General in Toronto. For Canadian citizens, this is often a straightforward process if the application package is thorough, well-organized, and clearly demonstrates compliance with all E-2 requirements.

What to Expect

The interview typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes. The consular officer will review your application package and ask questions to verify the information provided. They are evaluating the legitimacy of your business, the source of your funds, and your intent to return to Canada after your E-2 status ends.

Common Questions Asked

• Can you describe your business and what products or services it offers?
• How much money have you invested, and where did the funds come from?
• What is your role in the U.S. business, and why are you essential to its operation?
• How many employees do you plan to hire in the United States?
• What ties do you maintain in Canada?

Documents to Bring

You must bring your original, signed application package to the interview. This includes your DS-160 confirmation page, visa application fee receipt, passport, photo, and all supporting documents (business plan, source of funds evidence, lease agreements, financial projections, and organizational documents). Do not assume the officer has read your file in detail; be prepared to point them to specific pages that answer their questions.

What Happens After the Interview

In many cases, the officer will inform you of their decision at the end of the interview. If approved, your passport will be retained, and you will receive it back with the E-2 visa stamp within a few business days via courier. If the officer requires additional documentation (a "221(g) refusal"), you will be given a specific list of items to submit before a final decision can be made.

Preparation is your best defense against a 221(g) delay. A complete, cross-checked, and professionally formatted application package demonstrates credibility and makes the officer's job easier.