E-2 Investor Visa

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What You Need To Qualify Business Options for E-2 Investors Where Do You Apply? FAQs

E-2 INVESTOR VISA SERVICES AT Burgos Law

Are you thinking about investing in a business in the United States and building your life here? The E-2 Investor Visa might be the perfect path for you—and Burgos Law is here to help guide you every step of the way.

This visa allows individuals from E-2 treaty countries to live and work in the U.S. by investing in and managing a business. Whether you’re starting from scratch, buying a franchise, or purchasing an existing business, we’ll help you build a strong application and get everything in place.

Why Work with Burgos Law?

We know E-2 visas inside and out—and we understand how high the stakes are for you and your family. Here’s what we offer:

  • Personalized Strategy – Every investor is different. We’ll tailor our approach to fit your business goals and visa needs.

  • Legal Business Setup – Need help forming your company? We’ve got you covered.

  • Strong E-2 Application – We’ll help you build a clear, compelling case—backed by documentation and a solid business plan.

Schedule an Immigration Strategy Session!

WHAT YOU NEED TO QUALIFY for the E-2 Visa

You Must Be From An E-2 Treaty Country

To be eligible, you need to be a citizen of a country that has an E-2 treaty with the United States. Not sure if your country qualifies? Here’s the official list.

You Must Own at Least 50% of the Business

The business needs to be owned at least 50% by the E-2 applicant. That can be just you with 100% — OR split 50/50 with another E-2 applicant— OR any remaining percentage of ownership can be owned by any other individuals or entities—including U.S. citizens or green card holders.

You Must Make a Substantial Investment

There’s no set dollar amount, but the investment has to be significant enough to show that you’re serious. It should cover everything needed to get the business off the ground—things like legal fees, equipment, marketing, inventory, professional services, etc.

The Money Must Be Yours and from Legal Sources

The funds you invest must come from legitimate sources. That could include sale of assets and existing business income, a gift, inheritance, or a loan (as long as it’s secured by your personal assets—not the business itself).

The Business Must Be Active and Real

This can’t be a shell company or a business that exists only on paper. It has to be a real, operating business—or one that’s about to open. You’ll need to show that you’ve already spent money and taken concrete steps to launch it.

The Business Must Support More Than Just You

This visa isn’t for businesses that only support the investor. You’ll need to show that your business can eventually create jobs and contribute to the U.S. economy. A solid five-year business plan goes a long way here.

BUSINESS OPTIONS For E-2 Investors

Here are the three main ways investors use the E-2 visa:

  • Start a New Business
    Got an idea? We’ll help you turn it into a reality by forming a new legal entity and preparing your case.

  • Buy a Franchise
    Many investors choose well-known brands that offer a proven business model and built-in support.

  • Purchase an Existing Business
    Prefer something already running? Buying an existing business can streamline the process if the numbers work.

Schedule an Immigration Strategy Session!

WHERE DO YOU Apply?

Applying from Outside the U.S.

If you’re applying from abroad, you’ll go through a U.S. consulate. This is usually the best option if you want the flexibility to travel in and out of the country easily. The length of your visa will depend on your country’s treaty agreement with the U.S.

Applying from Inside the U.S.

Already here? You can apply for a change of status to E-2. This lets you stay and operate your business, but keep in mind—you won’t get a visa stamp. That means if you travel internationally, you’ll need to go to a consulate to re-enter the U.S.

FAQs

How much money do I need to invest for the E-2 visa?

There’s no exact number, but most successful applications involve investments of at least $100,000 or more, depending on the business. What matters most is that your investment is enough to launch and run the business. 

Yes—as long as the loan is secured by your personal assets, not by the business.

Not directly. The E-2 is a non-immigrant visa and does not provide a direct path to a green card. However, often E-2 investors later pursue permanent residency through other options, depending on their circumstances.

Yes! Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can get E-2 dependent visas. Your spouse can even apply for work authorization in the U.S.

The E-2 visa can last up to five years (depending on your country), and it can be renewed as long as you keep meeting the requirements.

Yes—if you have a valid E-2 visa stamp in your passport, you can travel internationally and re-enter the U.S. as long as the visa is still valid. However, if you applied for a change of status to E-2 from within the U.S. (instead of getting the visa through a consulate), you do not have an E-2 visa stamp and will need to apply for an E-2 at a U.S. consulate abroad before returning to the U.S. after international travel.

No. The E-2 visa only authorizes you to work for the specific business that is the basis of your E-2 application. You cannot work for another employer, start an unrelated side business, or take freelance jobs outside of the E-2 company. If you want to expand your business activities or take on new ventures, you may need to file an amended petition or consider a separate visa.

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