E‑2 Treaty Investor Visa

U.S. Immigration Pathway for Entrepreneurs & Investors

The E‑2 Treaty Investor visa allows entrepreneurs and investors to develop and direct a U.S. business. Learn eligibility, investment requirements, evidence, and FAQs.

  • The E‑2 visa is ideal for investors who want to start, purchase, or expand a U.S. business. Applicants must make a substantial, at‑risk investment in a bona fide enterprise and actively direct and develop the business.

    There is no fixed minimum investment amount. Instead, adjudicators evaluate whether the investment is sufficient to make the business viable and capable of generating more than marginal income.

  • To qualify, applicants must:

    • Be a national of a treaty country

    • Make a substantial, at‑risk investment in a U.S. business

    • Actively direct and develop the enterprise

    • Own at least 50% of the business or hold operational control

    • Show the business is real and operating, not marginal

    • Franchises (restaurants, retail, service brands)

    • Startups and new ventures

    • Professional service firms

    • Manufacturing, distribution, or logistics companies

    • Hospitality, tourism, and real estate operations

  • There is no fixed minimum, but the investment must be:

    • Sufficient to make the business viable

    • At risk (not passive or speculative)

    • Proportional to the type of business

    • Committed — not just planned

    • Initial validity varies by country

    • Renewals available indefinitely

    • Spouses may obtain work authorization

    • Business plans

    • Financial records

    • Proof of investment

    • Lease agreements

    • Organizational charts

    • Payroll records

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • The E‑1 visa is for individuals or companies engaged in substantial international trade with the United States. The E‑2 visa is for investors who make a substantial, at‑risk investment in a U.S. business and actively direct the enterprise.

  • There is no fixed minimum investment. Instead, the investment must be substantial enough to make the business viable, operational, and capable of generating more than marginal income.

  • Yes. Executives, managers, and essential employees who share the same nationality as the principal applicant or enterprise may qualify for E‑1 or E‑2 status.

  • Yes — purchasing an existing business or franchise qualifies.

  • Yes. Spouses of E‑2 visa holders are eligible for U.S. work authorization. Children under 21 may accompany the principal applicant but cannot work.

  • E‑visas can be renewed indefinitely as long as the trade or investment activity continues to meet visa requirements, making them strong options for long‑term business immigration.

  • Nationals of treaty countries are eligible. The official list is available on the U.S. Department of State website.

  • E‑visas do not directly lead to permanent residency, but many investors later transition to EB‑5, EB‑2 NIW, or L‑1A pathways.

Investing in a U.S. Business?

Let’s Build Your E-2 Strategy

Whether you’re launching a new venture or purchasing an existing enterprise, the E‑2 Treaty Investor Visa offers flexible, renewable options for entrepreneurs.

Complete the enquiry form to get tailored guidance on your investment and visa pathway.