The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals from treaty countries to enter the U.S. to invest in and manage a business. One of the critical aspects of securing an E-2 visa is the amount of investment made in the U.S. enterprise.
In this article, we will discuss the E-2 investment amount for starting a new business.
For details on how much to invest for an existing business, click here
Understanding the E-2 Visa Investment Amount for Startup Businesses
No Fixed Minimum Investment
The U.S. Immigration law does not specify a fixed minimum amount for E-2 visa eligibility. This flexibility means the required investment can vary significantly depending on the nature of the business.
With no specific investment amount specified, investors are left to feel uncertain and unconfident about whether they are investing enough for E-2 visa approval. To provide more clarification, we’ve broken down the investment ranges and the likely strength of an E-2 visa application. Please note these are for reference only and not a guarantee. The E-2 visa has various requirements which we touch upon in this blog that are also considered in addition to the investment amount.
Investment Range: $100,000 to $150,000
$100,000 USD is possible for many business types, based on our many years of experience and obtaining over 600 E-2 visa approvals so far. However, $150,000 USD or more is generally viewed more favorably, depending on the business model.
If this investment amount sounds like too big of a commitment, keep in mind you don’t have to spend the full amount. Reasonable working capital left in the US business bank account can also count towards your investment amount.
Investment Range: $70,000 to $90,000
Investing in the range of $70,000 to $90,000 might be possible (depending on the nature of the business), but it's crucial to ensure that the investment is substantial enough to demonstrate the business's potential for success and ability to hire American workers with a livable wage. The reality is that many visa officers view this range as insufficient, unless the investor can provide credible proof that the business is already thriving and satisfies all E-2 visa requirements. Achieving this level of proof can be challenging, especially if the investor has a goal of obtaining the E-2 visa as quickly as possible.
Remember, it's crucial to work with an experienced E-2 visa attorney to strategize the business setup, development, and investment amount, before making any irrevocable decisions.
Investment Range: $10,000 to $70,000
With the advancement of technology, some businesses, such as e-commerce startups or low cost service businesses, can indeed begin with investments ranging from $10,000 to $70,000.
However, for E-2 visa purposes, such investments are often considered insufficient by many visa officers, increasing the likelihood of visa denial.
This investment range is typically seen as low and viewed as covering only bare minimum startup costs. Visa officers seek evidence of a commitment to future growth, which includes adequate working capital, hiring American workers, securing commercial premises, purchasing inventory, conducting marketing, and establishing necessary infrastructures. Generally, a larger investment is necessary to demonstrate this level of business operation and to be seriously considered by visa officers.
Conclusion
While there is no fixed minimum investment, aiming for $100,000 or more generally improves approval chances for many types of businesses. The lower the investment, the higher the risk of visa denial. From our years of experience and over 600 E-2 visa approvals so far, our firm understands how visa officers evaluate these criteria and can help clients build a strong E-2 application.
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Real Case Studies
- Total Expenses: $63,000
- Working Capital: $95,000
- Citizenship: Canada
A Canadian investor in a home repair business utilized $63,000 in startup expenses and supplemented with $95,000 in working capital, showcasing a total investment of $158,000.
- Total Expenses: $90,000
- Working Capital: $30,000
- Citizenship: Taiwan
A Taiwanese investor opened a tutoring franchise with $90,000 in expenses and $30,000 in working capital, making the total investment $120,000.
Tailored Solutions for E-2 Visa Applicants
Our law firm specializes in providing in-depth knowledge and tailored solutions for E-2 visa applicants. We go beyond standard regulations to address unique business, visa, and logistical challenges.
- Real Strategies: Proven strategies that have helped hundreds of clients achieve E-2 approval.
- Expert Guidance: Our team has extensive experience with E-2 visas, offering step-by-step guidance.
- Referral Network: Access to a network of professionals who understand the E-2 process.