Typically $100,000+ in a U.S. business.
Own at least 50% of the business entity.
Actively manage and operate the company (not a passive investment).
Create or sustain jobs for U.S. workers.
We eliminate weak, undercapitalized, and poorly structured deals before they ever reach you. Each opportunity is reviewed for financial accuracy, operational substance, and real-world viability. You see clean numbers, realistic expectations, and a clear use of funds, so you’re not discovering risks after your capital is committed.
Many businesses technically “for sale” are not suitable for E-2 visa purposes. We focus on opportunities that demonstrate substantial investment, active ownership, and credible job creation, key factors immigration officers scrutinize. This means you’re not just buying a business, you’re buying a structure that supports your visa case.
We prioritize businesses with existing cash flow, established customers, and operational systems already in place. These are not owner-dependent lifestyle businesses. They are companies designed to operate, scale, and support your income while strengthening the long-term value of your U.S. investment.
From valuation and deal structure to negotiations and closing strategy, we act as your advocate throughout the process. Our experience helps you avoid overpaying, misreading financials, or accepting terms that weaken your position. While immigration attorneys handle the visa filing, we ensure the business itself holds up under scrutiny.
Most E-2 approvals hinge on whether the investment is “substantial.” While there’s no fixed minimum, most successful cases involve $100,000+ in assets and working capital.
Businesses with consistent revenue, stable profits, and existing customers give you a head start. Avoid speculative startups unless you have a strong industry background.
Your business should offer the potential to grow and create jobs, which strengthens your visa case and long-term exit value.
Not all businesses qualify equally. Service businesses with workforce needs, franchises with strong support systems, and niche retail can all be viable if structured correctly.
Service and consulting businesses are popular E-2 options due to lower capital requirements and strong cash flow potential. These businesses typically rely on systems, client relationships, and recurring revenue rather than physical assets. Examples include marketing agencies, IT services, staffing firms, healthcare services, and professional consulting. For E-2 purposes, these businesses work best when they show stable revenue, documented operations, and plans to hire beyond the owner.
Franchises appeal to E-2 investors because they offer proven business models, training, and brand recognition. Many franchises are already structured with E-2 visa applicants in mind and provide documentation that supports visa approval. While startup costs can be higher, franchises often reduce execution risk and clearly demonstrate scalability and job creation, which strengthens an E-2 application.
Hospitality and restaurant businesses are well-known E-2 investments due to their labor-intensive operations and immediate job creation. Cafés, food service concepts, and small lodging businesses can qualify when they have existing revenue and operational systems in place. These businesses typically require higher investment levels but can demonstrate clear economic impact when properly structured.
Retail and e-commerce businesses can qualify for an E-2 visa when they show consistent sales and operational substance in the U.S. Physical retail benefits from local staffing, while e-commerce businesses must demonstrate fulfillment, customer support, or logistics operations. Successful E-2 retail investments usually combine established revenue with realistic growth plans.
Light manufacturing and distribution businesses often meet E-2 requirements because they involve facilities, equipment, and employees. These businesses focus on assembly, packaging, specialty production, or wholesale distribution rather than heavy industry. They are well-suited for investors seeking operational depth and scalability while clearly demonstrating substantial investment.
