CNMI-Only Investor

The E-2C is a US temporary nonimmigrant classification for long-term investors in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) who held qualifying investor status before November 28, 2009. It allows qualifying investors to maintain lawful status during the ongoing transition to US federal immigration law.

Extensions are granted in 2-year increments, subject to a hard statutory sunset of December 31, 2029. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may accompany the principal investor; spouses can apply for work authorization. No PR pathway exists and dual intent is not permitted.

This visa is ideal for CNMI long-term investors who held qualifying status before November 2009 and need to maintain lawful presence in the CNMI through the 2029 program expiry.