The E-2 Visa allows individuals from treaty countries to invest in and operate a U.S. business. It offers a flexible, renewable path for entrepreneurs and business owners who want to manage their own company in the United States.

There is no fixed minimum. Most strong E-2 cases involve investments between $50,000 and $250,000 depending on the business type, structure, and operational needs. The investment must be “substantial” and proportionate to the total business cost.

You may do either. Many successful E-2 cases involve purchasing an existing business, but starting a new business with a strong business plan is also acceptable. USCIS looks for operational readiness and a credible investment strategy.

Validity depends on the applicant’s treaty country, typically ranging from two to five years. The visa can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business remains active and operational.

Yes. E-2 spouses may obtain work authorization and can work for any employer in the United States. This is one of the most valuable benefits of the E-2 category.

Yes. Children under 21 may study in the U.S. on E-2 dependent status. However, they cannot work while on E-2 dependent status.

Yes. We prepare detailed, USCIS-compliant business plans that include financial projections, hiring schedules, operational strategy, and competitive market analysis tailored to the business type.

Possibly. The business must be active, operational, and capable of creating economic activity. Purely passive or minimal-activity online businesses may not qualify unless operational infrastructure and revenue potential are clearly demonstrated.

Almost all businesses will qualify - Restaurants, franchises, retail stores, consulting firms, service providers, tech startups, healthcare clinics, automotive services, and many others are commonly approved. The key is demonstrating real operations and long-term viability.

Yes. Funds must be committed to the business, meaning they cannot be speculative or held in reserve. At-risk investment demonstrates seriousness and readiness to operate.

Yes. Personal savings, gifts, unsecured personal loans, and family-provided funds are all allowed as long as the source of funds is documented.

No. You may own 100% of the business, although ownership must be at least 50% to meet the E-2 control requirement.

Passive real estate investments do not qualify. However, active real-estate businesses such as property management, construction, or renovation companies can qualify if they show operations and active revenue generation.

Yes, but only with USCIS approval. A new business plan and updated application may be required if you switch to a different business model or industry.

You may continue to maintain E-2 status as long as the business remains active, operational, and shows legitimate efforts toward growth. USCIS evaluates overall progress rather than short-term profitability.

Most E-2 petitions are prepared in 4–6 weeks, depending on business complexity and documentation readiness. Consular processing times vary by country.

No. You do not need employees at the time of filing, but your business plan should illustrate the capacity and intent to hire in the future.

Not directly. However, many E-2 investors later transition to green card options such as EB-1A, EB-2 NIW, or EB-5 once eligible.

Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 receive E-2 dependent status and may accompany you for the duration of your visa validity.