How to Get an E2 Visa and Build Your American Dream

By Shah Peerally, Esq. – Trusted E-2 Visa Attorney, San Francisco Bay Area

If you’re a foreign investor or entrepreneur looking to start or buy a business in the United States, the E-2 visa could be your gateway to success. As an experienced E-2 visa attorney, I’ve helped clients from around the world turn their investment dreams into reality by guiding them through every step of the E2 visa process.

At Peerally Law Group, we specialize in investor visas, with a particular focus on E-2 visa applications, business plan compliance, and long-term immigration strategies. Whether you’re starting a tech startup in Silicon Valley, a restaurant in Los Angeles, or a consulting firm in Texas, the E2 visa may be your best route to live and work legally in the United States.

What is the E-2 Visa?

The E-2 investor visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows nationals of certain treaty countries to invest in and manage a U.S.-based business. It’s ideal for entrepreneurs and investors who want to run their own business in the U.S. without going through the long and expensive process of permanent residency at the start.

Key Benefits of the E2 Visa:

• Fast visa processing (sometimes within weeks)
• No annual cap or lottery like the H-1B
• Unlimited renewals as long as the business remains viable
• Spouse can apply for a work permit (EAD)
• Children under 21 can attend school or college in the U.S.

E-2 Visa Requirements: What You Need to Qualify

To qualify for an E2 visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Treaty Country Citizenship: You must be a citizen of a country with an E-2 treaty with the U.S. (e.g., France, Japan, Pakistan, Mauritius).
• Substantial Investment: The investment must be substantial relative to the type of business (generally at least $100,000 but can be lower depending on the business model).
• Real Operating Business: The business must be active and generate income—not a shell or speculative entity.
• 50% Ownership or Operational Control: You must either own at least 50% or have operational control of the business.
• Non-Marginal Investment: The business must create more than just a livelihood for you and your family—it should ideally employ U.S. workers.

As an experienced E-2 visa lawyer, I can help you assess whether your investment qualifies and prepare the necessary documentation.

How Much Do You Need to Invest for an E2 Visa?

There is no set minimum for an E-2 visa investment, but USCIS and consulates look for:

• Commitment of personal funds (usually $100,000 or more)
• Irrevocable investment (money already spent or in the process of being spent)
• Proportional investment for low-cost businesses

A tech consulting company may qualify with less than $100,000, while a franchise or manufacturing operation may require $200,000 or more. Our team will help you develop a compliant business plan and structure your investment to meet USCIS standards.

How Long Can You Stay on an E-2 Visa?

The E-2 visa is typically granted for 2 to 5 years, depending on your nationality and consulate. It can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business continues to operate and fulfill the visa requirements.