How to Start a Business in the U.S. with the E-2 Investor Visa (2025 Guide)

Written By Yildiz Law

The E-2 Investor Visa offers a pathway for entrepreneurs from treaty countries to invest in and run a business in the United States. If you're dreaming of building your company on U.S. soil, this visa might be the key

What Is the E-2 Visa?

The E-2 visa allows foreign nationals to live and work in the U.S. by making a substantial investment in an active, for-profit business.

With the E-2 visa:

  • You can manage your U.S. business

  • Your spouse can work without a separate permit

  • Your children (under 21, unmarried) can attend school

Trade Ship Carries Containers

How Much Investment Is Required?

There is no legally fixed minimum, but $100,000+ is generally recommended. The amount depends on your business model:

  • Coffee shop: $80,000–$150,000

  • Consulting firm: $50,000–$100,000

  • Franchise: $150,000–$300,000

Tip: Your funds must be at risk and irrevocably committed—not just sitting in a bank account.

Required Documents for E-2 Visa

  • DS-160 and DS-156E forms

  • Detailed business plan

  • Proof of investment and source of funds

  • Legal registration of the U.S. business

  • Statement of intent to return (verbal statement usually suffices)

Where and How to Apply?

Outside the U.S.:

Apply through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. For example, Turkish nationals apply via the U.S. Consulate in Istanbul.

Inside the U.S.:

You may file Form I-129 to change status if already on another visa. However, you’ll need a consular visa to re-enter the U.S. in E-2 status after travel.

Duration and Renewal

The E-2 visa is typically granted for 2 to 5 years, depending on your country of origin, and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business remains active.

Can You Get a Green Card from an E-2?

Not directly, but many E-2 investors later pursue:

  • EB-5 Investor Green Card

  • EB-1C Multinational Executive/Manager

  • Marriage-based adjustment of status

Pro Tips:

  • Buying into a franchise may streamline your approval.

  • Work with an experienced E-2 visa attorney for document preparation and strategy.

  • Ensure your business is non-marginal—it must support more than just your living expenses.

Yildiz Law
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E-1 Visa Explained: A Complete Guide for Doing Business in the U.S.