Business Ideas for Those Considering an E2 Investor Visa

By Ergul Celiksoy, Immigration Attorney at CK Law Firm

If you want to start your own business and live in the United States, the E2 investor visa could be an ideal option for you. The E2 visa allows citizens of countries that have a trade agreement with the U.S. to establish and operate a business by making a substantial capital investment. There are many different sectors and business opportunities available for investors who wish to move to the U.S. through the E2 visa. In this article, we will provide information on E2 visa business ideas, investment amounts, and the application process to help you successfully start a business in the United States.

Below are the key topics we will cover:

What is an E2 Visa?
Business Ideas You Can Start in the U.S. with an E2 Visa
Advantages of Starting a Business in the U.S. with an E2 Visa

If you have any further questions or want to explore more, feel free to visit our website. For personalized inquiries, you’re always welcome to connect with me on LinkedIn. Enjoy reading!

What is an E2 Visa?

The E2 investor visa allows investors to live and manage a business in the United States by making a significant capital investment in a U.S.-based company. However, this visa does not directly provide a green card; as long as the investor continues to operate their business, the visa can be renewed.

There is no fixed fee for the E2 visa, but the application process may involve legal fees and other costs. The typical investment amount for an E2 visa ranges between $100,000 and $200,000, although in some cases, lower investments may also be accepted.

Business Ideas You Can Start in the U.S. with an E2 Visa

There are various business opportunities available for those considering establishing a business in the U.S. through the E2 visa. Here are some promising E2 visa business ideas for 2025:

1. Franchise Businesses

Purchasing a franchise is one of the safest options for the E2 visa. Well-known franchises such as Subway, and 7-Eleven are attractive for investors. Franchise systems typically provide a proven business model, reducing the risk of failure for investors.

2. E-Commerce and Online Stores

E-commerce businesses, such as Amazon FBA, Shopify stores, or private-label products, are gaining popularity due to their low startup costs. Focusing on a niche product can be a profitable way to enter the U.S. market.

3. Restaurant and Café Businesses

The food and beverage sector is always in demand in the U.S. Organic food restaurants, vegan cafés, or restaurants specializing in Turkish cuisine are particularly popular. With a successful restaurant concept, you can reach a large customer base in major cities.

4. Automotive Sector: Car Rental or Car Wash Businesses

Car ownership is widespread in the U.S., making car rental or car detailing services profitable business ideas. In particular, electric vehicle charging stations or mobile car wash services are expected to have significant potential in 2025.

5. Digital Marketing Agency

Many small businesses in the U.S. need support with social media management and digital marketing. You can establish an agency specializing in SEO, social media advertising, or content marketing to offer services to these businesses.

6. Beauty and Personal Care Services

Hair salons, spas, and skincare clinics hold a significant market share in the U.S. Opening a beauty center that offers the latest trends and technologies can be particularly successful in large metropolitan areas.

7. Education and Consulting Services

Offering English language instruction to non-native speakers, career counseling, or software training can provide high-profit margins with low startup costs.

Advantages of Starting a Business in the U.S. with an E2 Visa

Pathway to a Green Card: Although the E2 visa does not directly provide a green card, successfully operating and expanding a business can facilitate the transition to other investment visas like the EB-5.
Work Authorization for Family Members: The spouses of E2 visa holders can obtain work authorization, and their children can access the U.S. education system.
Unlimited Visa Renewals: As long as the business remains active, the E2 visa can be renewed indefinitely.

There are numerous business opportunities available for those considering starting a business in the U.S. with an E2 visa. Profitable E2 visa business ideas include franchise operations, e-commerce, restaurants, the automotive sector, and digital marketing agencies. If you aim to establish a successful business in the U.S. through the E2 investor visa, preparing a solid business plan and securing the necessary capital will be key steps for a successful application.