I Shouldn’t say “I told you so”…but I did!

Major Shake-Up in U.S. E-2 Visa Processing:

No more Third-Country National Visa Processing - as of 09/06/25, the U.S. Department of State implemented a sweeping change: all nonimmigrant visa applicants must now apply in their country of residence or nationality. This is a BIG DEAL. With far-reaching consequences for visa applicants.

What the Rule Means

Under the new mandate, applicants can no longer “shop” around for consulates believed to have shorter wait times or higher approval rates. No more “consulate shopping” - such as going to Toronto or Bern or other places to save time and hassles. These options are now off-the-table!

Impact on Canadians

For Canadians, this may mean quicker appointments but on the other hand, Canadians must be prepared for more diligent and scrutinized processing - no more quick and easy! It’s time to get serious and take action. There’s no doubt that further sweeping changes are coming soon - it’s just a matter of time (don’t make me say “I told you so” again)!

Ripple Effects for Other Applicants

For applicants in countries with historically long wait times—or strained U.S. diplomatic relations—the impact could be severe. Many who relied on Canadian posts (or others in Europe and Latin America) to process their visas faster will now face delays, cancellations, and forfeited fees. This will ripple across multiple categories, but it will be particularly painful for investors and entrepreneurs, including those pursuing the E-2 investor visa. And it will undoubtedly be the first of many changes impacting E-2 processing on various levels. So don’t keep waiting around to make things happen as time may just run out.

The Warning Signs Were There

I’ve been saying this for months: changes to E-2 visa processing were coming. Too many chose to ignore the writing on the wall and my repeated warnings. And now here we are - and this is just the first of many expected significant shifts.

The U.S. government is tightening control, eliminating loopholes, and re-centering adjudication in applicants’ home countries. It is no longer an option - you must have a well-prepared, carefully-structured multi-pronged strategy when pursuing an E-2 or any other nonimmigrant visa.

The Time to Act Is NOW

This latest shift isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a signal. The U.S. is reshaping how visas are processed, and the E-2 is firmly in the crosshairs. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, hoping things will get easier, you’re moving in the wrong direction.

Stop kicking tires and start taking action. The window of opportunity is narrowing, and only those who prepare strategically will succeed.

Book your U.S. Entry Strategy Session today and secure your path before the next wave of changes makes it even harder.

The Investing Across Borders team, powered by e-CouncilInc.comand Lauren Cohen, Esq., is here to help you on your investment, relocation and visa journey. Let’s turn your investment dreams into reality with expert guidance, customized strategies, and unmatched support. Investing Across Borders can be reached at[email protected].

The information contained in this article is not intended to be legal advice or to be relied upon as such. You must not rely on said information as an alternative to legal advice from an attorney or other professional services provider. If you have any specific questions about any legal matter(s), you should consult with an attorney or other professional service provider.