E2 Visa Explained—Who Qualifies and How to Apply

The E2 visa is a popular option for investors and entrepreneurs who want to start a business in the United States.

It allows individuals from certain treaty countries to live and work in the U.S. based on their investment in a qualifying business. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur looking for opportunities in the U.S., this visa could be the perfect choice for you.

In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about the E2 visa, including eligibility, investment requirements, business types, and the application process.

Get Know About E2 Visa:

The E2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to enter and work in the U.S. based on a substantial investment in a U.S. business. It is issued to individuals from countries that have a treaty of commerce with the United States.

Unlike other visas, the E2 does not directly lead to a green card, but it can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business remains operational.

Let’s talk some stats:

• The U.S. grants more than 40,000 E2 visas annually.
• Over 80% of E2 visa applications are approved.
• Most E2 visa holders invest between $100,000 and $200,000 in their businesses.

Who Is Eligible for the E2 Visa?

The E2 visa is designed for investors and entrepreneurs who want to start or invest in a business in the U.S. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements.

1. Citizenship from a Treaty Country – You must be a citizen of a country that has an E2 treaty with the U.S. Countries like Canada, the UK, Japan, and Australia qualify. EB2Hub can help determine if your nationality makes you eligible.
2. Investment in a U.S. Business – You must make a substantial investment in a U.S. business. While there is no fixed amount, the investment should be enough to establish or grow the business. EB2Hub provides guidance on business plan for E2 visa cost and investment strategies.

1. Business Ownership – You must own at least 50% of the business or have strong operational control. We help you set up the right business entity for E2 visa and structure ownership correctly.
2. Business Must Be Active – Your business must be real, operational, and capable of creating jobs. We help you choose what businesses qualify for E2 visa.
3. Intent to Depart – You must demonstrate that you will leave the U.S. when your visa expires unless renewed. (Is it possible to add a CTA link here anywhere? It would make easy for readers to enquire if they want to, from any of the above mentioned points)

How Much Investment Is Needed for an E2 Visa?

There is no fixed minimum investment amount for the E2 visa, but it must be considered substantial.

Typically, investments range from $100,000 to $200,000, depending on the business type and industry. The investment must be enough to make the business operational and profitable.

What Businesses Qualify for an E2 Visa?

Not all businesses qualify for the E2 visa. The business must be real, profitable, and capable of creating jobs. Some of the most common businesses that qualify include:

• Restaurants and Cafes
• Retail Stores
• Consulting Firms
• IT Services and Software Development
• Health and Wellness Clinics
• E-commerce Businesses
• Manufacturing and Distribution Companies

What Type of Business Entity for an E2 Visa?

Choosing the right business entity is crucial for your E2 visa application. The most common entities include:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Offers flexibility and legal protection.
• Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp) – Ideal for larger businesses with multiple investors.
• Sole Proprietorship – Less recommended, as it does not offer liability protection.

Most investors choose an LLC or Corporation because these entities provide legal protection and easier financial management.

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How to Get a USA Investor Visa

The E2 visa is a great opportunity for foreign investors looking to establish or invest in a U.S. business. However, the process requires careful planning and precise documentation. We offer expert assistance at every stage to maximize your chances of approval.

1. Choose a Qualifying Business – The first step is selecting a business that meets E2 visa requirements. Our experts at EB2Hub can help you explore E2 visa business ideas and identify the best option for investment.
2. Register Your Business – You must choose a legal structure, such as an LLC or corporation, and register it in the U.S.
3. Invest in the Business – A substantial investment is required. We help document fund transfers, invoices, and receipts to prove your investment meets USCIS standards.
4. Prepare a Business Plan – A strong business plan for E2 visa is crucial. We specialize in creating professional plans that highlight profitability, job creation, and sustainability.
5. Apply for the E2 Visa – Our team assists in completing Form DS-160 and scheduling your U.S. embassy interview.
6. Attend the Visa Interview – We ensure you are well-prepared with all necessary documents and a compelling business case.
7. Receive Your Visa – Once approved, you can enter the U.S. and start operating your business with confidence.

E2 Visa Business Plan: Why It Matters

A strong E2 visa business plan is crucial for a successful application. It should include details about your business model, financial projections, and job creation plans. Immigration officers use this plan to assess whether your business is viable.

Business Plan for E2 Visa Cost

The cost of preparing an E2 visa business plan varies. Hiring a professional service to draft your business plan can cost between $1,500 to $5,000, depending on complexity.

E2 Visa Business Ideas

Some great E2 visa business ideas include:

• Digital Marketing Agency
• Cleaning Services
• Fitness Studio
• IT Consulting Firm
• Coffee Shop
• Real Estate Management

These businesses are in high demand and have a strong chance of success.

How Long Does the E2 Visa Last?

The E2 visa is usually granted for two to five years, depending on your country of origin. You can renew the visa indefinitely as long as your business remains operational.

Can Family Members Accompany E2 Visa Holders?

Yes, E2 visa holders can bring their spouses and children under 21. Spouses can also apply for work authorization in the U.S.

How EB2Hub Can Help You with Your E2 Visa?

Securing an E2 visa can be a complex process, but EB2Hub makes it easier for investors and entrepreneurs looking to start or expand their business in the U.S.

• Our team of experts provides comprehensive support, ensuring your application meets all legal and financial requirements.
• We assist you in developing a strong business plan for your E2 visa, detailing investment strategies, operational goals, and market potential.
• A well-structured plan increases approval chances, and our experts craft it according to USCIS guidelines.
• We also guide you in choosing the best business entity for your E2 visa, helping you decide between LLCs, corporations, and partnerships based on your needs.

At EB2 Hub, we ensure that your investment meets the required thresholds and aligns with qualifying E2 visa businesses. Whether you plan to launch a startup or invest in an existing business, we provide legal insights, document preparation, and case strategy to streamline the process.

From E2 visa business ideas to handling paperwork and legal requirements, we guide you every step of the way. Let EB2Hub simplify your U.S. investor visa journey—contact us today to get started!