Invest, Relocate, and Succeed in the U.S. Through the E2 Visa Program

The United States remains one of the most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs seeking opportunity, growth, and international expansion. For investors from treaty countries, the E2 visa offers a powerful legal pathway to enter and operate a business in the U.S. while enjoying the benefits of living there with their family.

If you are a non-U.S. citizen interested in launching a company, buying a franchise, or acquiring a business in the United States, the E2 visa could be the key to unlocking this opportunity. But to take full advantage of it, it’s crucial to understand how the visa works, what’s required, and how to apply strategically.

What Is the E2 Visa?

The E2 visa is a non-immigrant investor visa available to nationals of countries that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the U.S. It allows foreign investors to live and work in the United States based on an active investment in a U.S. business.

Unlike employment-based visas that require job offers or sponsorship from American employers, the E2 is based on your own entrepreneurial efforts. You invest in your own business, manage its operations, and, in return, you and your family can legally reside in the U.S. for renewable periods.

Who Should Consider the E2 Visa?

The E2 visa is ideal for:

First-time entrepreneurs aiming to start a U.S. business
Foreign investors purchasing an existing U.S. company
Franchise buyers looking for an immigration pathway
International companies sending executives to manage U.S. branches
Professionals building service-based businesses (e.g. consulting, tech, wellness)

The E2 visa is popular among business-minded individuals from the United Kingdom, Turkey, Germany, France, Japan, and other treaty countries. It provides not only business access but also a high-quality lifestyle for the investor and their family.

Key E2 Visa Requirements

To qualify for the E2, you must meet specific legal and financial criteria. These E2 visa requirements include:

Citizenship in a Treaty Country

You must hold a valid passport from a country with a qualifying treaty with the United States.

Substantial Investment

Your investment must be substantial relative to the total cost of starting or acquiring the business. Although no minimum is specified, investments under $100,000 are often considered risky. Many successful applicants invest $120,000–$300,000 depending on the business model.

Active Business Participation

You must be actively involved in the management and development of the business. Passive investors do not qualify.

At-Risk Capital

The investment must be committed and at risk of loss. Escrow agreements, unreleased funds, or promised investments won’t meet this condition.

Real and Operating Enterprise

Your business must be a functioning commercial enterprise providing goods or services. Paper companies, side gigs, or speculative operations will be rejected.

Non-Marginal Business

Your business must have the capacity to generate more than just a minimal income for the investor. Hiring employees or creating a clear growth plan will strengthen your application.

Advantages of the E2 Visa

Unlimited Extensions: The visa can be renewed as long as your business remains operational and compliant.
No Green Card Requirement: Unlike EB-5 or PERM-based processes, the E2 visa doesn’t require a long wait for permanent residency.
Fast Processing: Many consulates process E2 applications in 2–8 weeks.
Family Benefits: Spouses can work in the U.S. with separate work authorization; children can attend school.
Business Flexibility: You can start any legal business, from restaurants and salons to software startups and clinics.

What Types of Businesses Work Best?

The E2 visa doesn’t restrict industries. What matters most is the business’s viability, investment size, and active operations. Some popular E2 visa business types include:

Coffee shops and restaurants
Digital marketing agencies
Medical or dental clinics
Import/export businesses
Fitness or wellness studios
Franchises (food, tutoring, cleaning services)
E-commerce or tech startups

If the business can demonstrate legitimacy, growth potential, and job creation, it’s a strong candidate.

Why Work with an Immigration Attorney?

The E2 visa process is flexible—but only if it’s handled correctly. Incomplete filings, poorly written business plans, or vague investment documentation can all lead to delays or rejections.

Kulen Law Firm brings years of experience helping global investors secure E2 approvals. Their services include:

Legal eligibility assessment
U.S. company formation support
Investment structuring and fund tracing
Creation of compliant business plans
Filing preparation and consular interview coaching
Spouse and dependent application assistance

Their team has successfully represented investors from around the world and understands the unique financial and legal nuances of building a business under U.S. immigration law.