For nationals of qualifying treaty countries, E-2 may provide a temporary U.S. path when capital is substantially and lawfully invested in a real U.S. enterprise that the investor will develop and direct. The investment story must be supported by the business reality.
Direct Answer
For nationals of qualifying treaty countries, E-2 may provide a temporary U.S. path when capital is substantially and lawfully invested in a real U.S. enterprise that the investor will develop and direct. The investment story must be supported by the business reality.
Potential Paths
- There is no universal E-2 minimum investment: The law does not set one dollar amount that works for every business.
- The funds must be traceable and committed: A persuasive filing should show lawful source and path of funds and how the capital was actually committed or placed at commercial risk.
- The business must be real, not merely a plan: A business plan can explain strategy, hiring, revenue, and operations, but it does not replace evidence that the enterprise exists and is operating or genuinely ready to operate.
Facts That Change the Answer
- Buying a business or franchise can work: E-2 is not limited to startups.
- Nationality is a threshold issue: E-2 is available only to qualifying treaty-country nationals.
Next Step
Use the Navigator to narrow the potential path and published fee range, or book a consultation for an attorney review of the facts.