Is Starting a Business with an E2 Visa Possible?

By Ergul Celiksoy, Immigration Attorney at CK Law Firm

If you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own business in the United States, the E2 investor visa could be the key to turning your vision into reality. This visa allows entrepreneurs from treaty countries to establish or invest in a U.S.-based business and legally reside in the country. However, understanding the requirements, benefits, and process is crucial to making informed decisions and avoiding common pitfalls. In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the E2 visa and how it can help you achieve your business goals. In our article, I will touch on the following topics about the E2 investor visa:

• What Is an E2 Visa?
• Key Requirements for the E2 Visa
• Documents Needed for E2 Visa Applications
• Costs Associated with the E2 Visa
• Pathway to a Green Card
• Why the E2 Visa is Ideal for Entrepreneurs

With these headings, I will touch on the details about the E2 visa. For your questions about these issues, you can always contact us in the comments section of this blog or through our website. At the same time, if you want to contact me one-on-one, you can reach me via my LinkedIn account.

What Is an E2 Visa?

The E2 visa, also known as the E2 investor visa, is a non-immigrant visa for individuals from countries that have a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. This visa is designed for those who wish to make a “substantial investment” in a U.S. business. The investment must be significant enough to ensure the successful operation of the enterprise. Additionally, the applicant must have a controlling interest in the business, meaning they either own it outright or hold a majority stake.

The E2 visa for investors is available to nationals of eligible countries, which include a wide range of nations globally. Countries like Turkey, Japan, and Germany are part of this treaty agreement.

Benefits of the E2 Visa

• Fast Processing Times: Compared to other visa types, E2 visa processing is relatively quick, often completed within a few months.
• Inclusion of Family Members: Spouses and children under 21 can accompany the primary applicant. Spouses are also eligible to apply for work authorization.
• Renewable Status: The E2 visa can be renewed indefinitely, as long as the business remains operational and compliant with visa conditions.
• Opportunity to Live and Work in the U.S.: Entrepreneurs can actively manage their business while enjoying the benefits of living in the U.S., including access to top-tier education and healthcare for their families.

Key Requirements for the E2 Visa

Meeting the E2 visa requirements is essential for approval. Below are the main eligibility criteria:

• Citizenship of a Treaty Country: Only citizens of treaty countries are eligible for the E2 visa. Check the U.S. Department of State’s list of treaty countries to confirm your eligibility.
• Substantial Investment: The size of the investment is important for those who want to start a business with an E2 visa. Although US law does not set a specific lower limit, the investment is expected to be “large and meaningful”. For more detailed information, see “E2 Visa Investment Amount: How Much Should I Invest?” for more detailed information.
• Active Business Operations: The business must be active and operational. Passive investments, such as purchasing a rental property, do not qualify.
• Economic Contribution: The business should contribute to the U.S. economy, often demonstrated by creating jobs for U.S. workers or generating significant economic activity.
• Intent to Depart After Visa Expiry: As a non-immigrant visa, the E2 does not lead directly to a green card. Applicants must demonstrate their intention to leave the U.S. once their visa expires.

Documents Needed for E2 Visa Applications

A successful E2 visa application requires thorough preparation and documentation. Here are some of the key documents:

• Proof of Nationality: A valid passport from a treaty country.
• Investment Evidence: Bank statements, wire transfer receipts, or property purchase agreements proving the source and transfer of investment funds.
• Business Plan: A detailed plan showcasing your business’s objectives, financial projections, and market analysis.
• Operational Evidence: Documents such as leases, employee contracts, and supplier agreements.
• Personal Financial Records: Tax returns, asset declarations, and income statements to verify the legitimacy of your funds.

Costs Associated with the E2 Visa

The E2 visa cost includes various components:

• Application Fees: As of 2025, the visa application fee is approximately $205.
• Legal and Professional Fees: Attorney fees can range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity of the case.
• Business Investment: The required investment amount varies by industry but should be sufficient to sustain the enterprise.

It’s essential to budget for all these expenses to ensure a smooth application process.

Pathway to a Green Card

While the E2 visa does not directly lead to a green card, some investors transition to permanent residency through other pathways, such as the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program or family-sponsored petitions. Consulting an immigration attorney can help identify the best options based on your circumstances.

Why the E2 Visa is Ideal for Entrepreneurs

The E2 investor visa offers a unique opportunity to bring your entrepreneurial vision to life in the U.S. Whether you aim to launch a new business or expand an existing one, this visa provides the flexibility and support needed for success. With its renewable nature and family-friendly benefits, the E2 visa is a gateway to achieving professional and personal aspirations in America.

If you want to start a company or expand your existing business in the US, you can contact CK Law Firm through our Official Website to get detailed information about the E2 investor visa requirements. You can also contact me on my LinkedIn account for more information.