Visa questions? We can help.

There is no fixed dollar amount in the law. Instead, the investment must be “substantial” relative to the type of business. In practice, amounts under $100,000 are often considered too low, while $150,000–$200,000 or more are typically viewed as stronger. Other factors—such as the number of employees, the type of activity, and the revenue generated—also play an important role. The E-2 is not judged only by a number, but by a combination of factors showing that the business is real, viable, and capable of supporting operations and jobs in the U.S.

E-2 visa processing typically takes two to six months from start to finish, though this varies by consulate.

The interview scheduling wait time is often the longest variable.

Some cases require additional administrative processing that adds two to eight weeks.

Yes, if you're in a valid nonimmigrant status, you can file Form I-129 with USCIS to change to E-2 status without leaving the country.

However, USCIS processing times can be lengthy, and you'll still need to obtain a visa stamp at a consulate if you later travel abroad.

The E-2 doesn't directly lead to a green card, but E-2 holders have several pathways to permanent residence.

Options include the EB-5 immigrant investor program, EB-1A extraordinary ability, EB-2 NIW national interest waiver, or employer-sponsored green cards through the PERM process.

The E-2 is a temporary (nonimmigrant) visa with no fixed minimum investment that can be renewed indefinitely but doesn't lead directly to a green card.

The EB-5 is an immigrant visa requiring $800,000 to $1,050,000 that leads directly to permanent residence and requires creating 10 jobs.

No, you must be a citizen of a treaty country to qualify for the E-2 visa.

If your country does not have a qualifying treaty with the United States, consider alternatives like the H-1B, L-1A, O-1A, or EB-5 depending on your qualifications.

Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can accompany you on E-2 dependent status.

Your spouse can apply for work authorization (EAD) to work for any U.S. employer, and your children can attend school.

Yes, you can use borrowed funds for your E-2 investment, but the loan must be secured by your personal assets, not by the E-2 business itself.

If the business serves as collateral, the funds aren't considered "at risk" because the lender, not you, would bear the loss if the business fails.

Most of your investment should be committed before you apply, but you don't necessarily need to have spent every dollar.

Funds in escrow that will be released upon visa approval count toward your substantial investment.

The key is demonstrating that your capital is irrevocably committed to the enterprise.