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A Comprehensive Guide to the E-2 Investor Visa Business Plan

Originating from bilateral treaties between the United States and specific countries, the E-2 visa provides a platform for foreign entrepreneurs to invest in and manage businesses on U.S. soil.  This non-immigrant visa grants temporary residence, enabling qualified individuals to oversee and operate businesses they have invested substantial capital in.

A Flexible Path to Immigration

The E-2 visa program offers foreign nationals from treaty countries a versatile path to invest and live in the United States . Unlike other immigration routes, this program emphasizes flexibility, allowing visa holders to reside in the U.S. and actively participate in their business.

Investments must be substantial and in a bona fide enterprise, reflecting genuine commercial engagement. Treaty investors must show clear intent to develop and direct the business, contributing positively to the American economy.

The E-2 visa is not merely a business decision; it embodies the pursuit of the American dream. Through investment, immigration, and embracing opportunities, foreign nationals can build a new life and contribute to American society.

Eligibility Criteria for the E-2 Visa

Treaty country: a basis for eligibility.

The E-2 visa is open to nationals from treaty countries that have specific agreements with the United States. The list of treaty countries is dynamic and reflects international agreements. To see if your country of origin qualifies, the U.S. Department of State keeps an updated list of E visa-eligible treaty countries.

Substantial Investment and Engagement

The essence of the E-2 visa program is the substantial investment made by the foreign investor in a U.S. enterprise. The focus is on the proportionality of the investment, its relevance to the business, and the investor's commitment to actively manage and direct the enterprise.

Commitment to Business and Economic Contribution

E-2 status demands more than financial investment. An E-2 visa applicant must demonstrate a sincere intent to contribute to the U.S. economy and a dedication to the success of the business. Engagement with immigration law and specific legal requirements are essential to maintain E-2 visa holder status.

Viability and Growth Prospects

Investors can choose to invest in an existing business or establish a new one. The focus lies in the viability, growth potential, and employment generation. Immigration officials scrutinize the business plan, including market analysis, to ensure it meets the E-2 classification standards.

E-2 Visa Application Process

Application and approval: detailed steps.

The application process starts with completing required forms, such as the DS-160, and assembling a comprehensive package of supporting documents. Key components include:

• Business Plan : An E-2 business plan detailing investment, market analysis, and operational strategy.
• Investment Proof : Evidence of a substantial investment, including sources and allocation.
• Treaty Country Citizenship : Documentation confirming treaty country citizenship.
• Visa Interview : Preparation for an immigration official interview, highlighting the genuine intent.
• Visa Approval : Navigation through challenges, ensuring alignment with immigration law, transparent documentation, and a compelling business case presentation.

Working with E-2 Visa Professionals

Immigration attorney.

An immigration attorney's expertise is pivotal in crafting a persuasive application and addressing complex legal matters. An immigration lawyer with E-2 visa specialization can provide additional insights, supporting the applicant throughout the process by preparing the applicant for interactions with immigration officials.

Immigration Business Plan Writers & Consultants

In the complex landscape of E-2 visa applications, especially for unconventional or young business models like entertainment, influencer, or app development, the role of a professional business plan writer is indispensable. Business plans that lack credibility or feasibility often face pushback from consular officers or USCIS. Far too often, E-2 visa business plans may not align with the ambitious goals for revenue and employment creation, leading to questions about the business's marginality and the proportionality of the investment.

A professional immigration business plan writer, such as the award-winning team at Masterplans, brings to the table specialized market research tools and invaluable experience. With access to vast collections of financial models and industry-specific data, they offer robust substantiation for the investment plan. Their expertise extends to understanding industry average rates, employee salaries, and other key metrics that ensure the business plan is grounded in reality and aligned with market conditions. Working with a professional immigration business plan writer not only strengthens the credibility of the E-2 application but also enhances the overall success prospects by providing accurate forecasting and evidence-based planning. It is not a step to overlook; instead, it's a strategic collaboration that adds substantial value to the E-2 visa application process.

The E-2 Business Plan

Demonstrating at-risk investment.

The investment plan must lucidly demonstrate the substantial investment made by the foreign national , outlining the source of funds, allocation, and commitment to the business, in compliance with E-2 investor visa guidelines.

Beyond Marginality

An E-2 business must project potential growth beyond mere sustenance for the investor and family. The business plan must articulate a path to growth, including job creation, market expansion, and economic contribution.

Comprehensive Market Analysis

The market analysis is integral to the E-2 business plan, offering insights into the industry landscape, competition, target market, and growth opportunities. It includes:

• Industry Overview : Understanding trends and challenges.
• Competitor Analysis : Evaluating competitors to gain a competitive edge.
• Target Market : Defining customer segments and strategies.
• Growth Opportunities : Identifying expansion and development avenues.

Disadvantages of the E-2 Visa

The E-2 Visa, while offering certain advantages such as the ability to invest and operate a business in the United States, does come with notable drawbacks that must be considered:

Difficulty in Transitioning to a Green Card

One of the most significant challenges associated with the E-2 Visa is the complexity and difficulty in transitioning to permanent residency or obtaining a green card. The E-2 is a non-immigrant visa, and its primary focus is on temporary business activities. As a result, it doesn't inherently provide a clear or straightforward pathway to permanent residency.

Other Potential Disadvantages

• Limited Scope : The E-2 Visa is restricted to nationals of countries that have a Treaty of Commerce and Navigation with the United States. This limits eligibility.
• Investment Requirements : Substantial investment in a bona fide enterprise is required, and the definition of "substantial" can vary, leading to uncertainty.
• Renewal Challenges : Although renewable, each renewal can be an arduous process, requiring proof that the business is still viable and fulfilling the treaty investor visa requirements.
• Dependent Restrictions : Family members under the E-2 may face limitations in employment opportunities.

Sustaining the E-2 Visa Beyond Approval

The journey continues after the E-2 visa is approved. Sustaining the visa requires an ongoing commitment to the U.S. enterprise, including:

• Continuous Business Operation : Ensuring the business remains active and profitable.
• Ongoing Compliance : Regular legal checks and alignment with visa requirements.
• Coordination with Legal Professionals : Collaborating with immigration attorneys and lawyers for integrated business planning and legal compliance.

The E-2 visa serves as a gateway for treaty investors to foster growth, innovation, and job creation in the U.S. economy. It stimulates investment and supports local businesses, industries, and economic development.

For E-2 visa holders, this program embodies a journey towards success, stability, and personal fulfillment. It aligns with the core principles of opportunity, hard work, and aspiration, facilitating personal and professional growth. 

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E2 Visa Cost Breakdown: Investment and Financial Essentials

Immigration law | business law.

• E2 Visa for Australians nationals
• E2 Visa for British nationals
• E2 Visa for Korean nationals
• E2 Visa for Italian nationals
• E2 Visa for Indian nationals
• E2 Visa for Vietnamese nationals
• E2 Visa for Israelis nationals
• E2 Visa for Egyptian nationals
• E2 Visa for Czechs nationals
• E2 Visa for Chileans nationals
• E2 Visa for Ukranian nationals
• E2 Visa for Germany nationals
• E2 Visa for Mexican nationals
• Family/marriage based visas
• Agriculture & Commodities Industry Practice
• Commercial Manufacturing & Production Industry Group
• Energy Practice Group
• Fashion Industry
• Information Technology
• Logistics & Warehousing Practice
• Retail Practice
• Startup & Emerging Business
• Mobile Application & Social Media
• India Practice Group
• Investors and Entrepreneurs
• Consulting & Service Oriented Businesses
• Visa Franchise Practice
• Medical Professionals
• Moving from Australia to US
• Emigrate to & from Canada
• Moving from Germany to US
• Grenada Citizenship by investment
• Moving from India to US
• Italian Citizenship & Residency
• Moving from Philippines to US
• Portuguese Residency By Investment
• Moving from Singapore to US
• Moving from Taiwan to US
• Turkish Citizenship
• Moving from United Kingdom to US
• Immigration to the United Kingdom
• Moving from Vietnam to US

Introduction

Whether you're an investor, an established entrepreneur, or an aspiring one, you're probably thinking of expanding in the U.S. to build wealth. In 2022, the country recorded nearly 5.1 million new businesses with a survival rate of 78.4% for startups. This means, that if you're planning to start a business in the U.S., you are less likely to fail with the right strategies at your disposal. And if you're planning to play a key role in expanding your business in the U.S., you will need an USA E2 Visa to lawfully stay in the country. Please note that you have to be a citizen or national of an E-2 Treaty Country. If not, you may have the option to obtain a passport from a treaty country to qualify for an E-2 visa or status.

Two ways to apply

• You can apply for an E-2 visa directly at the Embassy or Consulate. You can apply for the visa with your spouse and your children below 21 years old.

Processing Time

If you're a visa applicant physically present or living in another country, the processing time can vary from the U.S. consulate but generally, it takes 2 weeks to 4 months.

Fees and Costs Involved

• Travel Charges - You need to consider the cost of travel to the U.S. embassy or consulate for your interview. These may include hotel accommodations and transportation costs.
• MRV Fee - After completing the DS-160 online application, you need to pay the MRV fee of $205 USD. You will need to submit an application package according to Embassy/Consulate instructions/guidelines.
• Visa Issuance Fee -Once your E2 visa is approved, you have to pay a visa issuance fee based on a reciprocity schedule. This fee varies depending on your home country and typically ranges between $100 USD to $250 USD.

Visa Validity and Period of Authorized Stay in the U.S.

The validity of the E-2 visa depends on your country’s reciprocity schedule. For most countries, the reciprocity schedule is 5 years, but for some countries, it is 3 months. When you enter on a valid E-2 visa, you will be given a period of authorized stay of 2 years. If you depart the U.S. and re-enter on a valid E-2 visa, you will again have a period of two years of authorized stay.

If you have entered the U.S. on a valid E-2 visa and received two years of authorized stay, you can also opt to request to extend your E-2 status without leaving the U.S. by filing an application with USCIS. If your application to extend status is approved, you will get another two years of authorized stay.

• If you are in the U.S. on a valid nonimmigrant status, you can apply to change status to E-2 Treaty Investor status. You can apply to change to E-2 status with your spouse and children below 21 years old.

The application to change status is filed with USCIS and may take between 3 to 6 months to be adjudicated. You have the option to pay an additional fee on top of the filing application fee to request premium processing. With premium processing, USCIS is required to respond within 15 days.

You can pay these fees from your business bank account.

• Form I-129 - The filing fee is $460 USD.
• Form I-907 - You have the option to request for premium processing service to have your petition expedited within 15 days for an additional premium processing fee of $2,5000 USD.
• Form I-539 - If you have dependents (spouse and children below 21), they also need to file a change of status application with USCIS and the filing fee is $370 USD.

How To Pay E2 Visa Fees?

You can pay for the E-2 visa fees in the form of either a cashier's check, personal check, or money order. The checks must indicate the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as the recipient. An experienced immigration attorney would generally advise making each payment separately rather than combining it into a single payment. This helps in avoiding confusion and errors that would lead to unnecessary delays in your visa processing. Give us a call today to discuss with an experienced immigration lawyer and ensure your filing fees and other additional fees are correctly calculated.

Period of Authorized Stay and Extension of Status

Upon approval of your change of status application to E-2, you will receive a new I-94 for an extended period of two years of authorized stay in the U.S. This means that you can stay in the U.S. for a full period of two years without having to leave. If you leave before the two-year period expires, you will only be able to re-enter the U.S. by applying for a visa at the Embassy/Consulate. Prior to the expiration of the two-year period, you can file for the extension of status for an additional period of two years. The same fees as detailed above apply. To know more about the difference between the two ways to apply for a visa, you can also check our article here .

Business Investment or E-2 Visa

If you're planning to form a new business with your E2 visa, then you'd need a lawyer for your startup who can review your situation and determine the best plan of action. After consultations, to obtain an E2 visa, you'd need a "substantial" investment in your startup. Generally, an investment of $100,000 USD is recommended, but the nature and requirements of the business must be taken into consideration.

Business Plan in E2 Visa

Aside from investing and spending on business expenses related to your startup, business plans are also necessary for your visa eligibility. You need toinclude an E2-compliant business plan with your application. These business plans are created by companies that specialise in immigration business plans with fees varying depending on the company you work with.

Administrative Charges

Apart from application fees, there are other fees that you also need to take note of like legal fees and administrative costs tied to your application process including translation fees, certification fees, business entity formation costs, postage, and courier fees among others.

Immigration Lawyer Costs

The help of an experienced immigration attorney makes the application process easier, that's why a lot of applicants choose to work with one. If you're looking forward to working with one, the attorney fees will depend on your case's difficulty, the specific services they will provide, and their particular billing practices.

Translation Costs

Translation costs are another administrative charge that you might need to pay if your application documents are not in English. The fee may vary depending on the volume of documents and languages involved.

Certifications

There are documents that may need the certification of a government agency or organization upon its submission. The certification fees may vary depending on the requirements and the agency or organization signing.

Minimizing Your E2 Visa Expenses

Applying for an E2 visa can get costly, after all, it's related to bringing in a major investment to the U.S., but there are several strategies that you may use to minimize expenses.

• Create plans ahead and avoid unnecessary fees - Starting ahead of time in processing your E2 visa application can help you minimize costs in expediting the process. Moreover, this helps you avoid unnecessary expenses such as unnecessary document certifications or translations as you already have a concrete plan for your application.
• Compare providers - Since the process also includes other expenses such as your immigration lawyer fee and administrative fees, comparing fees from different providers can help you weigh in your options based on your budget.
• Work with an experienced immigration lawyer - When you work with an experienced and great immigration lawyer or E2 visa attorney , not only does it make your application process easier but also helps you avoid mistakes that would otherwise cost a fortune. Here at Davies & Associates , we can help you manage your application to avoid unnecessary delays and costly fees.

E2 Visa Cost Frequently Asked Questions

What is an e-2 visa.

According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website, an E-2 visa is a non-immigration classification granted to foreign investors from countries with a bilateral investment treaty or agreement with the U.S. The foreign investor may invest substantial capital in an existing U.S. business or build a company from scratch.

What are the key benefits of holding an E-2 Visa for investors and entrepreneurs?

Here are some of the benefits you'll receive when you decide to get an E-2 visa:

• Work legally in the U.S. for a company you invested in - If you're planning or dreaming about conducting business in the U.S., then an E2 visa is a must. Whether you've invested in an existing business or starting your own in the U.S., playing a key role in the business is essential for it to thrive and that means working on the ropes on the scene.
• No minimum investment required - The U.S. government doesn't have a specific minimum or maximum amount for an E-2 visa investment. It only requires that the investment must be a substantial amount and that it's always put at risk. As a general rule, however, the capital investment should be based on the nature and requirements of the business.
• Family members can also work and attend school - Your spouse may also work in the U.S. based on her visa and I-94. There is no need to apply for an Employment Authorization Document. Meanwhile, if you have children, they can also attend school through their E-2 dependent visa before they turn 21.
• Stay indefinitely in the U.S. - There's no limit to the renewal of an E-2 visa provided that the E-2 enterprise continues to operate. If you invest a significant amount of $800,000 or $1,000,000 USD, you have the opportunity to become a permanent resident in the U.S. through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program.

If I don't have a passport from a treaty nation, can I still apply for an E-2 visa?

The U.S. government provides that you must be a national of a country of E-2 treaty countries with the U.S. to obtain the visa. Your nationality is determined by your citizenship, and in cases of dual or multiple citizenship of E2 treaty countries, you can apply under any citizenship you hold. You may have the option to obtain a passport of a treaty country.

How much money must you invest to qualify for an E-2 visa?

The treaty does specify a minimum amount of investment to qualify for an E-2 Visa, but it requires the investment to be a substantial amount in relation to the nature and requirements of the business. The investment must be at risk as well. While we recommend an investment of at least $100,000 USD, the capital must still be based on the nature and requirements of the business.

Can I make an investment in any kind of company to be eligible for an E-2 Visa?

Yes, any legitimate or lawful business with the intention to hire U.S. workers is eligible for an E-2 visa. However, take note that while any business is allowable, the business must contribute to the local economy to an extent that's more than marginal and must not exist for the sole purpose of supporting the investor and gaining an E-2 visa.

Is there a set deadline for making the investment?

There is no set deadline for making an investment, but the E2 guidelines provide that you have invested or are in the process of investing and have committed funds as part of the requirements. To be "in the process of investing" means that you're close to the start of the actual business operation.

Can I travel with my family on an E-2 visa?

Family members such as your spouse or your children under 21 years of age can travel with you on an E-2 visa. Their visas are valid for the same period as yours.

How much time may I spend in the country with an E-2 Visa?

Once you're approved, you're allowed a maximum of an initial stay of 2 years, with extensions that can be granted in increments of 2 years.

Is there a cap on how many times my E-2 visa may be extended?

There is no limit on how many times your E-2 visa can be granted. An E-2 non-immigrant who travels abroad may generally be granted, as determined by a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Officer, an automatic 2-year period of readmission upon return to the U.S.

Once I obtain an E-2 Visa, can I work for any other company or establish a different business?

Under an E-2 visa, an investor or employee may only work for the enterprise that is the subject of the investment. However, an E-2 visa holder is permitted to partially or fully own other companies. Mere ownership doesn't pose a problem, take note, however, that you're not allowed to work at the new enterprise.

If you still have questions left unanswered, you can also visit here for more FAQs about E-2 Visa. Know more also our E2 visa requirements !

E2 Visa Costs for Each Treaty Countries

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Several lawyers told me I would not be able to get a TN visa. Two weeks after contacting Davies & Associates I was working in New York, visa in hand.

D&A was very detail-oriented and was very thorough in what they did” L1 Visa Client. There was a lot of work on my case and worked on it 24/7 and was very patient answering all my questions.

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I would definitely be a big advocate for the rest of my life for anyone wanting to explore the Grenada Citizenship by Investment Programme leading to the E2 Visa. The most important thing is a good team behind you.. with Davies & Associates you’re in safe hands… you need someone who can give you all the support at the ground level and, again, you are well take care of by D&A. The people are really warm, very helpful and quite openminded when it comes to business… Not to mention as a passport it’s great from a travel perspective…It’s just 4/5 hours from New York.

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I'm in a process of extending my L1 visa. I submitted a few questions regarding my case and he contacted me back almost immediately both by e-mail and telephone. Unlike other attorneys I met before, he gave me the impression of knowing from the top of his head what kind of visa I have, and what actions had to be taken to extend it. He is very thorough and clear regarding the process and what to expect in terms of timelines and issues that may arise. He is constantly in contact, so you definitely know he's working on your case.

Mark Davies is a joy to work with. His extensive knowledge, speedy response and attentive service took away all my fears of dealing with immigration and visa applications. He is very generous with his time in explaining every step along the way and I have already and will in the future recommend him to anybody who is looking for an immigration lawyer.

Davies & Associates assisted us with an immigration emergency involving my brother's fiancée who was outside the United States. They assisted us in an highly professional manner, working with the relevant US embassy, US immigration and the governments of two other countries. As a result of their efforts the individual involved is now working in the United States. While their knowledge of the law is exemplary what really distinguishes this firm and attorney Davies from any other firm we have worked with is their dedication to customer service and their unrivaled level of professionalism.

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Home » Visa Business Plans

How to Write a Winning Business Plan for E2 Visa Program

Are you applying for E2 visa? If YES, here is a sample template on how to write a winning business plan for E2 visa program that is immigration compliant.

What is an E2 Visa?

An E-2 Investor Visa is one that allows an individual to enter and work inside of the United States based on an investment he or she will be controlling while inside the United States. The E2 visa is usually valid for three months to five years and can be extended indefinitely if the holder wishes.

International investors seeking to migrate to the US with the goal of starting their own business may qualify for the E-2 visa. For the investor in question to qualify, he or she needs to come from a treaty country and he has to commit a ‘substantial’ amount of capital towards the business.

This essentially means that the business must have something substantial on ground before the E-2 visa is granted, and since substantial is not defined by the USCIS, in theory there is no minimum. This requirement allows the USCIS or Department of State to grant visas to those investors that are serious about their intentions and are really making a transition.

To demonstrate that all the requirements of the E-2 visa have been fulfilled, US embassies and the USCIS rely heavily on the business plan. They want you to document all your achievements as regards the business.

For most applications, a business plan is required to illustrate key aspects of the E-2 company, including what the business is going to do, how it is going to do it, and when it will accomplish its goals. While developing a business plan may seem like an intimidating idea for most people, it is a crucial step to assembling a strong E-2 application.

Also, a business plan is the best method for cultivating your business idea and developing a deep understanding of what your business is and how it will grow. E-2 visas are often granted or denied based on the quality of your business plan, as many reviewing officers (and especially USCIS) examine the plan to determine whether your business is viable and whether you are serious about running it.

What your E2 Visa Business Plan Should Show  

E2 visas are only available to citizens of countries with which the US has a treaty of commerce and navigation. Applicants must be citizens of these countries, they are not allowed to be just permanent residents.

An applicant must be able to prove that he/she has invested (or is in the proven process of investing) a substantial amount in a bona fide US business. An applicant must be able to prove that he/she is entering the US for the sole purpose of developing and directing the specific business being written about.

What Constitutes ‘Substantial’ Investment in a US Business?

For an investor to be granted the E2 visa, one of the requirements is that they make substantial investments on their business. Another way of putting it is that the USCIS requires that the investor’s capital must be at risk in a commercial sense. The investor should be able to prove that the capital was invested with the goal of making profit, and that it can be lost (completely or partially) if the investment fails.

But you should know that for an investment to be deemed substantial is usually based on context. However, there are a few general guidelines that can help an investor know know what the USCIS is looking out for. The following guidelines can help you.

• An investment is considered substantial by the USCIS if it can be considered a significant portion of the total cost of purchasing/starting the business in question.
• An investment is substantial if it is large enough to prove the investor’s financial commitment to the success of the business.
• If it is enough to make it likely that the investor will be successful in his development of the business.
• In the case of a startup, an investment must be shown to be enough to start and operate the business.
• Although E2 visa applications have been approved and can be approved for investments of less than $100 000 if all criteria are met, a general guideline is that the E2 investment amount ought to be more than $100,000 to be considered substantial.
• Finally, it must also be shown that the enterprise that is being invested in is actually a business. This requires proof that the business is an entrepreneurial venture that produces goods or services with the express goal of making profit. The business must not be considered marginal – i.e. it must be proven that the company is making more than is needed to support the livelihood of the applicant and his/her family.

It is also possible to prove that, while the company is not currently generating more than this amount, it has a high likelihood of doing so in the future.

How to Write a Winning Business Plan for E2 Visa Program That is Immigration Compliant

1. description of the business and executive summary.

When writing your E2 visa business plan , you have to start off with the description of the business and your executive summary. The executive summary should introduce the company, its key products and/or services, and the target market for the company’s products or services. The details of the company, such as where and when it was founded, should be included here, as well as the highlights of the company’s key projected metrics.

For E-2 purposes, it is important to focus on data points that prove your company will qualify for the visa, such as how much money it makes and how many employees it will hire (the company should make enough to hire at least three to five employees in a five-year period).

The Executive Summary provides the examiner with a snapshot of your company, and if done properly, will emphasize why you and your company qualifies for the E-2 visa. This is an essential part of the plan and it will be the first (and in some cases the only) thing the examiner reviews.

2. Purpose of Developing and Directing the Business

Having done with the executive summary, you should now state the purpose of the business. You must prove to the reviewers that you are entering and staying in the US for the sole purpose of ensuring the success of the enterprise in which you have invested.

This can be proven if the applicant has 50% or more ownership of the venture. Alternatively, an applicant must be able to prove that he/she is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the business. This will have to be proven with reference to his/her managerial position within the company.

3. Market Analysis

An E-2 compliant business plan should contain a detailed market analysis that studies the conditions of the local market in which your company will compete, identify your company’s competitors, and provide an explanation as to why your company will successfully compete in the local market.

As the data cited in the market analysis section often forms the foundation for your financial projections, it is crucial that you thoroughly develop this section, identifying competitors by name, comparing the relative strengths and weaknesses and comparing the products and business models.

This demonstrates to a reviewing officer that you understand the market that you will be competing in, as well as provides an opportunity for you to further develop an understanding for your company and the marketplace in which it will operate. The market analysis section should also contain a detailed analysis on your target market and prospective customers or clients.

The key is providing as much relevant detail as possible. If you have contacts to tap into, or meetings lined up, present them. Perhaps you already have contracts in place, or signed letters of intent, use these also. The more documents you have, the better.

4. Marketing and Personnel Plan

Your business plan should include a comprehensive marketing plan that describes how the company will make itself known to its target market, and how it intends to engage this market to purchase its products and services. The marketing plan can include standard methods of marketing such as print advertisement commercials, as well as online marketing and the use of a website.

The important thing is that each marketing plan should be tailored to your specific business. If your consulting agency does not use ads to get clients, then it is important to describe how your company secures customers (through networking or referrals, for example).

Yet another crucial part of an E-2 compliant business plan is a comprehensive hiring plan for the next five years of the E-2 company’s operations. The E-2 visa requires that the company hire US workers and provides for more than just a living for the treaty investor and his/her family.

The plan should include a description of each position the company intends to employ, how many employees the company intends to hire, and when they intend to hire them. While there is no exact number of how many employees the E-2 company must hire, it is recommended that the company in question hires no fewer than three, and strive to hire at least three by the company’s third year of operation.

The management structure should allow you as the E-2 visa holder to develop and direct the company, with other individuals performing the skilled or unskilled labor demands of the business. You must be able to demonstrate that you will create jobs within your company for resident workers. How many US jobs will result from your enterprise, what roles will they be and when do you expect they will be created? All these questions must be answered.

5. The Financial Plan

Your E2 visa business plan should also contain your company’s financial plan. This financial plan is the business’s projected financial statements as well as an explanation that provides a basis for the assumptions and figures in the statement. A company’s financial statements consist of a balance sheet, the profit and loss statement, and a cash flow statement.

These statements quantify the company’s history (or in this case, the company’s future) in monetary terms. They provide information that can be useful in making a determination regarding the company’s financial health and future, and are the primary means through which financial information is communicated to the reviewing officer.

It is absolutely crucial that the business plan contains a credible financial plan, as the plan’s strength depends on realistic fiscal plan. Again, the key is providing as much detail as possible as to how the financial plan was developed. This helps to strengthen the plan and also helps an examiner to better understand your business.

6. Business strategy

The plan should provide financial projections and elaborate on how the business will achieve sufficient success and profitability to support you (the investor), your dependents and employees, and create new jobs within the duration of the E-2 visa (maximum 5 years).

It’s important to be realistic. If your application is successful, look ahead to the renewal stage (up to 5 years). When you apply to renew, you will be required to present documentation and figures that show business performance for the duration of the visa, with the expectation that you will have achieved these projections.

In the business plan, you will also need to show you have control and possession of your investment funds. This requires documentary evidence of the source of funds, with a clear paper trail, for example, sale of property or assets, savings, employment income. With no threshold or arbitrary minimum amount, the size of your investment must be considered ‘substantial’ in proportion to the total cost of the business project.

7. Operational strategy

The Embassy will want to understand how your business will actually function in the US. There are a multitude of corporate structures permissible for securing the E-2 visa. You will need to decide which you will operate under. The management specifics of the business will also require detail. You will also be required to provide evidence that at least 50 percent of the business is owned by you, being a citizen of a treaty country.

8. Your skills and experience

A further requirement for an E2 visa is that the business in question be related, connected or relevant to the professional experience, skills or qualifications of the E-2 applicant.

The Embassy will be seeking assurance of your credibility and capability, as well as the viability of the enterprise, and questions would arise at the interview if there is a perceived lack of synergy between your capabilities and the company’s line of work.

Developing a good business plan takes a particular expertise and you should hire a qualified professional to develop your plan. This is particularly the case if you are seeking bank financing and/or applying for an immigration petition.

More on Visa Business Plans

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E2 visa business plan (what to include).

• July 31, 2024

By Nita Nicole Upadhye

• Last updated July 31, 2024

Table of Contents

If you’re planning to move to the US to start a business, it’s likely you’re looking at the  E-2 visa. As well as meeting the many eligibility requirements of the E2 visa,  you will be required as part of your application to submit an E2 visa business plan.

A poorly formatted business plan can result in delayed processing, if more information is requested by the adjudicator, or even a refused application if the adjudicator concludes from the business plan that the visa requirements are not met. As such, the business plan is a critical document in establishing eligibility for the E2 visa.

What is the E2 visa business plan?

The E2 visa business plan is a document produced specifically to support your application for an E2 Treaty Investor visa for the USA. The E2 visa carries many requirements in relation to the E2 visa applicant and the E2 company, and the business plan should be used to evidence compliance with the visa criteria.

4- 6 weeks after submitting your application and business plan to the US Embassy, you should expect to be invited to attend an interview. During the E2 visa interview , you will be questioned on the information you have provided about yourself and the business. The business plan will be scrutinized to ascertain the degree of economic benefit your business would bring to the US market. You’ll need to be comfortable being challenged on the content of the business plan, and explaining how you will get the business to an operational stage for the point you would arrive in the US.

What should the E2 visa business plan include?

Put simply, the business plan should set out your company goals and projections, it should detail how your E-2 investment is going to be utilized and it should demonstrate that the level of investment is sufficient to make the business operational and to allow you to meet your growth projections. You will also need to outline the projected economic benefits the company will contribute in the US.

The contents of the business plan will largely depend on the nature of your business, the level of investment being made and the strategies you intend to adopt to make the business viable. Taking professional advice will help to ensure you are providing the adjudicator with the relevant information.

While there isn’t a single winning formula or a prescribed format for the E-2 business case, we know from our years of experience in managing E2 visa applications the key information that can help the visa adjudicator understand how your plans and projections meet the visa requirements. A successful E2 visa business plan would typically cover information about:

• The company – whether it is an established or new business, what its activities will be, its projected economic benefits and the strategies to develop the business
• The investment – proving it is both ‘substantial’ and with legitimate source of funds
• The applicant – evidencing your suitability to direct and develop the business

1. About the E2 company

The plan will need to state whether the E2 company is an established enterprise or a new venture. In either case, you will need prove it is bona fide and legitimate. The business must be an active, profit-making, entrepreneurial undertaking, such as producing goods or delivering services. For example, buying land or property in the US may not in itself qualify for the E2 visa if being used for passive income; there would typically need to be some property management activity requiring you to manage operations on a day-to-day basis,

Importantly, you will also need to provide indication of the number of jobs you intend to create within your company for US resident workers, and any other relevant economic benefits you would bring to the US market.

Consider including the following sections within the business plan:

Financial strategy

The plan should provide financial projections and elaborate on how the business will achieve sufficient success and profitability to support you (the investor), your dependents and employees, and create new jobs within the duration of the E-2 visa (maximum 5 years).

It’s important to be realistic. If your application is successful, look ahead to the renewal stage (up to 5 years). When you apply to renew, you will be required to present documentation and figures that show business performance for the duration of the visa, with the expectation that you will have achieved these projections.

In the business plan, you will also need to show you have control and possession of your investment funds. This requires documentary evidence of the source of funds, with a clear paper trail, for example, sale of property or assets, savings, employment income.

With no threshold or arbitrary minimum amount, the size of your investment must be considered ‘substantial’ in proportion to the total cost of the business project. We explain in more detail here about the E-2 investment amount, but put simply – it is a relative test with no defined minimum threshold. It will be for you to make your case and explain why your investment amount qualifies as ‘substantial’ relative to your enterprise and its specific needs.

There must also be an at-risk element to the investment, which again you will need to detail within the plan of investments to date in the business (lease, set up costs etc) and to prove that the business will be operational from day 1 of you arriving in the US.

Operational strategy

The Embassy will want to understand how your business will actually function in the US.

There are a multitude of corporate structures permissible for securing the E-2 visa. You will need to decide which you will operate under.

The management specifics of the business will also require detail. The E-2 visa holder is authorized on the basis of directing and developing the business – what does this mean in practical terms given your corporate structure and personnel strategy?

You will also be required to evidence that at least 50 percent of the business is owned by you, being a citizen of a treaty country .

Personnel strategy

The management structure should allow you as the E-2 visa holder to develop and direct the company, with other individuals performing the skilled or unskilled labor demands of the business.

You must be able to demonstrate that you will create jobs within your company for resident workers. How many US jobs will result from your enterprise, what roles will they be and when do you expect they will be created?

Interestingly, the E-2 visa also allows the business to petition for other foreign employees with the same nationality as the treaty employer. By leveraging this advantage the enterprise could petition for executives, supervisors, or other essential employees with special qualifications.

Marketing strategy

How will you approach marketing within the US? Document your plans including budget and personnel requirements for marketing activity.

Do you have contacts to tap into, or meetings lined up? Perhaps you already have contracts in place, or signed letters of intent? Clearly, the more solid these lines of activity, the better for your case.

2. About the E2 investment

You have to be clear on the level of investment made in the E2 company and why this level is appropriate and compliant with the visa conditions of being “substantial” and “not marginal”.

The investment sum must be shown to be reserved and available for use by the E2 company, and the source of funds will also need to be given to prove it has been lawfully obtained.

3. About the E2 applicant

You will need to show that your role within the business is to direct and develop, whether as an established or existing enterprise, and that you own at least 50% of the company. The investment sum must be in your possession and have been legitimately obtained. You must also be able to show that the investment carries financial risk personally for you.

You will need to prove your intention to live in the US while you carry out these activities and to leave the US when your visa expires (although you may apply to extend the visa).

A further requirement is that the nature of the business is, in some logical sense, related, connected or relevant to the professional experience, skills or qualifications of the E-2 applicant, ie that you have the ability to successfully direct the company.

The Embassy will be seeking assurance of your credibility and capability, as well as the viability of the enterprise, and are likely to question at interview where there is a perceived lack of synergy between your capabilities and the company’s line of work.

Need Assistance?

The business plan is a challenging part of the E-2 visa application process, but critical to get right. Remember, planning for growth will be central to your E2 visa business plan. Typically, the Embassy is looking for steady enterprises achieving growth, and you need to be able to demonstrate how your business meet this. There’s also the risk of including too much information – aim for thorough but succinct!

You will also need to ensure you follow any instructions from the E visa unit that is processing your application, as many have specific formatting requirements for business plans. We can advise on such requirements.

NNU Immigration are US attorneys with specialist expertise in the E-2 visa , helping entrepreneurs, business owners and investors realise their ambitions for growth in the US.

If you have a question about an E-2 visa application, including the E-2 visa business plan, contact NNU Immigration and speak with one of our attorneys.

E2 visa business plan FAQs

What is the purpose of an E2 visa business plan?

An E2 visa business plan is a crucial document that demonstrates the viability and potential success of your business in the US It helps USCIS assess whether your investment and business meet the requirements for an E2 visa

How detailed should my E2 visa business plan be?

Your business plan should be comprehensive and detailed covering all key aspects such as financial projections market analysis operational strategies and job creation plans It should clearly show how your business will succeed in the US

Do I need to include financial projections in my business plan?

Yes financial projections are a critical part of your business plan They should include revenue forecasts profit margins and cash flow analysis to demonstrate the financial viability of your business

How much investment is considered substantial for an E2 visa?

There is no specific dollar amount defined as substantial by USCIS However the investment must be significant enough to support the business’s start-up and operational costs and ensure its successful operation

Can I write my E2 visa business plan myself or should I hire a professional?

While you can write your business plan yourself many applicants choose to hire a professional to ensure that the plan meets all the requirements and is presented in a clear organized and persuasive manner

Can I modify my business plan after submitting it to USCIS?

Once your business plan is submitted as part of your E2 visa application any significant changes to your business should be communicated to USCIS Modifications may require submitting additional documentation

What happens if my E2 visa business plan is rejected?

If your business plan is rejected it could affect the outcome of your visa application You may need to revise and resubmit the plan addressing any issues or concerns raised by USCIS It’s advisable to seek professional advice if this occurs

Do I need to include a job creation plan in my E2 visa business plan?

Yes your business plan should include a job creation plan that outlines how your business will create jobs for US workers This is an important factor in demonstrating the economic impact of your business

What type of business is eligible for an E2 visa?

Most types of businesses can qualify for an E2 visa as long as they meet the necessary requirements including being a legitimate enterprise having substantial investment and being able to generate income and create jobs for US workers

How much investment is needed for E2 business visa?

There is no set threshold or investment amount for the E2 business visa, however, the requirements are that the investment is “substantial”, which will be assesed taking into account the nature of the business activity, its industry and other factors deemed relevant.

What is an E2 compliant business plan?

The E2 business plan should show how your E-2 investment is going to be utilized, with insight into areas such as the business’ financial, personnel and marketing strategies.

Can I work for another company on an E2 visa?

E2 visa holders are only permitted to work for the E2 company.

What are the disadvantages of E2 visa?

The main disadvantage of the E2 visa is that it does not lead to a Green Card or permanent settlement in the US, although there are no restrictions on the number of times the visa can be extended, provided the visa holder remains eligible.

Nita Upadhye

Founder & Principal Attorney Nita Nicole Upadhye is a recognized leader in the field of US business immigration law, ( The Legal 500 , Who's Who Legal and AILA ) and an experienced and trusted advisor to large multinational corporates through to SMEs. She provides strategic immigration advice and specialist application support to corporations and professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, artists, actors and athletes from across the globe to meet their US-bound talent mobility needs.

Nita is an active public speaker, thought leader , immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals.

• Nita Upadhye https://www.nnuimmigration.com/author/nita/ E2 Visa USA from UK: Complete Guide
• Nita Upadhye https://www.nnuimmigration.com/author/nita/ E2 Visa Interview Questions
• Nita Upadhye https://www.nnuimmigration.com/author/nita/ E2 Visa Dual Intent: Apply for Green Card?
• Nita Upadhye https://www.nnuimmigration.com/author/nita/ US Green Card Eligibility Guide

This article does not constitute direct legal advice and is for informational purposes only.

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E-2 Visa Business Plan

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Support your E-2 visa application with a custom-made business plan that meets all the requirements.

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Tailored to your unique business venture, your E-2 visa business plan will clearly outline your vision, operations, and financial projections, ensuring compliance with immigration standards.

E-2 Visa Overview

E-2 visa business plans

Designed for e-2 treaty investors.

If you’re planning on coming to the US to either purchase or create a new business venture, the E-2 Visa, commonly known as an investor visa, is for you.

At Joorney, we understand the importance of a professionally written immigration business plan for the E-2 visa. Our business plans take into account all the specific USCIS requirements, including marginality, substantial investment, source of funds, business type, and many more.

Our team of business plan writers and project managers has experience in over 180 industries, and we have worked with clients from more than 65 countries.

Each year we work with 1500+ clients that trust in our immigration services. We have a team of 30+ skilled specialists that can create custom-tailored business plans for you, making you one step closer to getting approved.

All of our business plans are written by a team that has expertise in over 120 industries and has worked with clients from 65+ different countries.

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We discuss the details of your endeavor, such as visa type, your goals and vision, timelines, and more.

Immediately after the discovery call, we finalize our contract and send you the invoice. We're ready to start your project!

You receive our comprehensive questionnaire, designed specifically to allow you to easily share the details of your endeavor with us. We'll use this knowledge to create your custom-made business plan.

Upon receiving your complete questionnaire, our team analyzes the answers and reaches out to you in case of any missing data or additional questions.

Your dedicated team creates the first draft of your custom business plan, usually within 7 to 10 days (or 5 days for Rush service!).

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E2 Visa Business Plan

For foreign entrepreneurs seeking to establish a business in the United States, the E2 visa presents an attractive opportunity to invest in and manage a business venture. Central to the E2 visa application process is the submission of a robust and well-structured business plan that effectively demonstrates the viability, sustainability, and growth potential of the proposed business. A carefully crafted E2 visa business plan not only serves as a crucial document for obtaining the visa but also acts as a strategic roadmap for guiding the entrepreneurial journey in a new market.

How to Create an ES Visa Business Plan

Here’s a comprehensive guide to creating an impactful E2 visa business plan:

1. Comprehensive Market Analysis: Conduct an in-depth analysis of the target market, including market trends, consumer demographics, competitive landscape, and growth projections. Highlight the market demand for your products or services and showcase a clear understanding of the market dynamics and potential challenges.

2. Detailed Business Description and Model: Provide a detailed overview of your business, outlining its legal structure, products or services, operational processes, and value proposition. Define your business goals and objectives, and articulate a comprehensive business model that outlines revenue streams, pricing strategies, and projected profit margins.

3. Investment Structure and Financial Projections: Present a detailed investment plan that outlines the capital requirements, initial investment structure, and breakdown of how the investment funds will be utilized. Develop comprehensive financial projections, including income statements, cash flow analysis, and balance sheets, to demonstrate the financial sustainability and growth potential of the business.

4. Management Team and Organizational Structure: Showcase the expertise and experience of the management team, highlighting key members’ roles and responsibilities. Define the organizational structure of the business, emphasizing the delegation of tasks and the strategic allocation of resources to ensure operational efficiency and effective management.

5. Marketing and Sales Strategies: Outline a robust marketing and sales plan that encompasses targeted marketing initiatives, customer acquisition strategies, and branding efforts. Highlight the use of digital marketing tools, social media engagement, and strategic partnerships to maximize market penetration and foster customer engagement and retention.

6. Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies: Identify potential risks and challenges that may impact the business’s operations, and develop comprehensive risk mitigation strategies that demonstrate your ability to proactively address and navigate potential obstacles. Showcase contingency plans and adaptive measures to ensure the sustainability and resilience of the business in a dynamic market environment.

7. Compliance with Legal and Regulatory Requirements: Ensure that your business plan demonstrates compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements, including licensing, permits, and industry-specific regulations. Highlight your understanding of the legal framework and your commitment to operating the business in full adherence to the prescribed guidelines and standards.

8. Executive Summary and Conclusion: Summarize the key highlights and overarching vision of the business plan in a concise and compelling executive summary. Emphasize the unique value proposition of the business, its competitive advantage, and the potential economic impact it can generate, reinforcing the viability and sustainability of the proposed business within the U.S. market.

Crafting a comprehensive E2 visa business plan requires meticulous research, strategic planning, and a thorough understanding of the U.S. market landscape and regulatory framework. By following this definitive guide, foreign entrepreneurs can develop a compelling and well-documented business plan that not only fulfills the requirements for the E2 visa application but also serves as a strategic blueprint for establishing and managing a successful business venture in the United States.

Example of an E2 Business Plan

Here is a brief sample of each section of an E2 Business Plan:

Executive Summary: Our company, XYZ Consultancy, aims to establish a management consulting firm in the United States. With a focus on providing innovative solutions to small and medium enterprises, we seek to leverage our expertise in business strategy and operational efficiency to foster growth and sustainability for our clients. Our mission is to become a trusted partner in driving business success through strategic planning and implementation.

Market Analysis: Through comprehensive market research, we have identified a growing demand for specialized consultancy services in the target market. The increasing number of startups and SMEs seeking professional guidance presents a lucrative opportunity for our consultancy firm. With our tailored services and competitive pricing, we aim to capture a significant market share within the first three years of operation.

Business Description and Model: XYZ Consultancy will operate as a limited liability company (LLC) headquartered in [City, State]. Our service portfolio includes strategic planning, market research, operational optimization, and financial analysis. By offering customized consultancy packages tailored to each client’s unique requirements, we aim to deliver sustainable and tangible business outcomes that drive profitability and long-term success.

Investment Structure and Financial Projections: We plan to invest $150,000 in the initial setup, encompassing office space, technology infrastructure, and human resources. With an anticipated growth rate of 20% annually, we project a revenue of $500,000 in the first year, with a gradual increase to $1 million by the third year. Our detailed financial projections indicate a positive cash flow and a steady increase in profitability, ensuring the sustainability and expansion of our consultancy firm.

Management Team and Organizational Structure: The XYZ Consultancy management team consists of seasoned professionals with extensive experience in business consulting and project management. Each member brings unique expertise in areas such as strategic planning, marketing, finance, and operations. Our flat organizational structure fosters effective communication and streamlined decision-making, enabling us to deliver superior consultancy services and personalized client experiences.

Marketing and Sales Strategies: We plan to implement a multi-channel marketing approach, combining digital marketing initiatives, networking events, and strategic partnerships with local business communities and industry associations. Our sales strategy focuses on building long-term relationships with clients, offering value-added services, and delivering measurable results that contribute to their business growth and success.

Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies: Recognizing potential challenges such as market competition and economic fluctuations, we have developed comprehensive risk mitigation strategies. These include diversifying our service offerings, maintaining strong client relationships, and continuously monitoring market trends and industry developments. Our adaptive approach and proactive risk management will ensure the resilience and sustainability of our consultancy firm.

Compliance with Legal and Regulatory Requirements: We are committed to operating in full compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements governing consultancy services in the United States. We have secured all necessary licenses and permits, and our business operations adhere to the industry standards and guidelines prescribed by relevant regulatory authorities.

This E2 business plan for XYZ Consultancy outlines our commitment to excellence, innovation, and client-centric consultancy services, emphasizing our vision to become a leading management consultancy firm that drives sustainable growth and success for businesses across diverse industries.

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E-2 Visa, Explained

Learn the process, cost, timeline, and requirements of the e-2 treaty investor visa, in this guide.

• E-2 Visa Eligibility
• E-2 Visa Timeline
• How to Apply for an E-2 Visa
• E-2 Visa Cost
• What happens after the E-2 visa is approved?
• Related Information
• Ensure your E-2 success.

What is the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa?

The E-2 visa is a type of visa that allows people from certain countries to live and work in the United States if they do one of the following:

• Invest a significant amount of money in a U.S. business or entity (E-2 investor)
• Come to work in the U.S. as an executive, manager, or essential employee of a company owned by someone from their country (E-2 employee)

To qualify for an E-2 visa, the person’s home country must have a special trade agreement with the United States.

Key points:

• The investment can be in a new U.S. business or an existing one
• E-2 visa holders can work for the business they’ve invested in
• They can also bring employees from their home country to work for the business

The “E” in E-2 stands for “Treaty.” E visas are a specific category of nonimmigrant visas granted based on treaties between the U.S. and other countries.

When your E-2 visa is first granted, you can stay in the U.S. for a maximum of two years at a time, but you can extend your stay in two-year increments from within the U.S., or you may travel and re-enter with a valid visa, to extend your authorized period of stay as well. There are no limits on the number of times an E-2 can be renewed.

In this guide, we’ll cover the eligibility requirements for the E-2 visa, the timelines for approval, and step-by-step instructions on the application process. 

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The E-2 visa has a handful of general requirements that apply to all applicants, though there may be slight variations based on your country of origin.

Nationality

The investor, or investment entity,  has to prove to be a citizen of a country with a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. Currently, there are more than 80 treaty countries, and you can find the full list here .

What is a treaty of commerce?

A treaty of commerce is a formal agreement between countries that establishes and regulates trade relationships. Its primary purpose is to promote both countries’ economic growth and job creation.

You must have invested or be actively investing a significant amount of money into a real business in the United States. This investment must be fully committed and at risk, meaning you cannot just take it back. It should be enough to make the business successful and earn substantially more than just a living wage.

Active Management

Entering as an E-2 investor typically requires the investor to play an active role in the management of the U.S. business. This means having control and ownership of at least 50% of the enterprise, being involved in making major decisions, and overseeing day-to-day operations by traveling to or residing in the U.S.

Business Type

The E-2  business must be a real, bona fide enterprise, and the business should not be marginal, meaning it has to show potential for growth and job creation in the U.S. The enterprise must have the capacity to generate more than a marginal income, meaning it has the ability to generate more than a minimal living for the investor and their dependents.

Source of Funds

Similar to proving the business is a legitimate and legal venture, the E-2 applicant must prove that the funds invested in the U.S. business have a legitimate source. This helps to ensure that the money used for the investment was obtained legally. This source of funds consideration requires a tracing of how the funds were generated and showing the funds moving from the investor, or investment entity, into the U.S. business.

Investment Criteria for U.S. Business Ventures: Qualifying vs. Non-Qualifying Investments

Getting an E-2 visa typically takes several months, whether applying abroad and submitting to the U.S. Consulate or submitting a change of status from within the U.S. with the USCIS. Of course, timelines can vary. That’s primarily because the process differs from one U.S. consulate to another.

If you’re already in the US:

Most people (80%) get a decision on their application within 2.1 months unless they submit their application with Premium Processing, which expedites the timeline.

If you’re applying from outside the US:

The wait time depends on where you apply. It could take a couple of weeks up to several months. Every U.S. consulate has its own set of requirements, methods of submitting your case, and overall processing timelines and steps. Individual consulate websites often have visa processing information. You can find a specific consulate through the US Department of State website . 

Premium Processing for the E-2 Visa

E-2 applicants may also be able to request “premium processing” of their Form I-129 for an additional fee. If approved, USCIS will typically process your E-2 visa application within 30 calendar days.

If you’re applying from within the U.S.:

• Ensure you’re a national of an E-2 treaty country and that you meet all E-2 requirements, including all the business requirements and E-2 role requirements.
• Gather all documentation about your business (business plan if applicable, financial documents, proof of investment, source of funds, etc.) and information proving your eligibility.
• Consider premium processing for a faster decision (30 days).
• You’ll receive a decision from USCIS. If approved, your status changes to E-2 on the date listed on your Form I-797 Approval Notice .

If you’re applying from outside the U.S. (Consular Processing):

Although the exact steps vary per U.S consulate and require careful consideration, these are some typical steps:

• ︎Ensure you meet all E-2 requirements, including nationality, business requirements, and E-2 role requirements.
• Complete and File Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application) and DS 156E .
• Once the Consular Officer reviews your application, you can schedule & attend a visa interview at your home country’s U.S. Embassy or consulate. Note that some Consulates follow a different process at this stage, so be sure to check carefully. Be prepared to discuss your business and investment plans.
• Your passport will be stamped with the E-2 visa, often valid for 5 years if approved. Present it at a U.S. port of entry to be admitted to the U.S.

Can an E2 visa lead to a green card?

The E-2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa, meaning that there is no direct path to lawful permanent residency, or a green card. Additionally, the E-2 does not allow for the dual intent to enter the U.S. on the E-2 while intending to apply for a Green Card.

Some examples of Green Card paths include the employment-based preference categories as well as as family sponsorship. Read about your options here.  

When considering the cost of a new E-2 visa as an investor, it’s important to remember there are two major expenses:

• Investment Cost: The amount you invest in your US-based business, whether starting a new business, buying a franchise, or purchasing an existing business. This investment needs to be substantial, but there’s no set minimum amount.
• Application Cost: This includes government filing fees and may also include costs for professional services like lawyers and business plan writers if applicable. As of April 1, 2024, these costs have increased.

What does the government consider a “substantial” investment?

There’s no exact dollar amount that defines “substantial investment” for an E-2 visa. But generally, the lower the cost of the business, the higher the percentage of investment needed.

Small service-based businesses, for example, may require a higher investment percentage than capital-intensive ones. Additionally, the business can’t be designed simply to provide a living for you and your family. It needs to show the potential to make a significant economic impact.

What is the application fee for the E-2 vias?

Applying from within the u.s. (change of status).

• Form I-129 (Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker) : $510-$1015 depending on the size of the business
• Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status): $470 – required for spouses and children under 21
• Optional: Form I-907: $2805 for premium processing (expedited review within 15 business days)

Applying from outside the United States (Consular Processing)

• Form DS-160 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application): There is technically no fee when filing the DS-160 itself. However, there is a processing fee specific to the type of visa you’re applying for. In 2024, the processing fee for an E-2 is $315
• Reciprocity Fee: This is charged to citizens of countries that charge high fees for US visas. You can check the reciprocity tables to see if this applies to you.

Do I need to pay an additional biometrics fee with my E-2 visa application?

In 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) eliminated the separate biometrics fee for most nonimmigrant visas, including the E-2. However, if you are applying for an E-2 from outside the U.S. through consular processing , it’s possible you might still have to pay a biometrics fee in some locations. This is because certain consulates have their own procedures and may not have updated their systems to fully reflect the rule change 

If you applied from within the U.S. (Change of Status):

• USCIS Approval Notice: You’ll receive a Form I-797 (Notice of Action) from USCIS confirming the change of your status to E-2.
• Work Authorization: With this approval, you’re immediately authorized to work for the business in which you invested.
• Travel: If you need to travel outside the U.S., you will need to obtain an E-2 visa stamp at a U.S. consulate before returning. Note that this process is not merely a quick visa stamping but will require a complete E-2 application and consideration by the Consulate.

If you applied from overseas (Consular Processing):

• Visa Issuance: The U.S. consulate will stamp your passport with the E-2 visa.
• Travel to the U.S.: With your E-2 visa, you can travel to the U.S. and enter upon inspection by a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at a port of entry.
• I-94 Travel Record : The CBP officer will create an I-94 record indicating your E-2 status and duration of stay. It’s important to review this for accuracy.
• Work Authorization: You’re authorized to begin working for your invested business.

Important points for both situations:

• Social Security Number: You’ll need to apply for a Social Security Number (if you don’t already have one) to work legally in the U.S.
• Taxes : You’ll be subject to U.S. tax laws.

Setting up a brand new business is feasible as well as purchasing an existing business or even a franchise., Purchasing a franchise, for example, can be viable, especially with its proven business models and brand recognition. Of course, each option can work, but much depends on the specific facts of the investment, the business model, any proven success of the business, and much more. Most business types can qualify for an E-2, including personal service providers, including businesses like hair salons, cafes, or even consulting firms. Legal professionals possessing the necessary qualifications and licensure can also establish their practices. The E-2 even extends to commercial ventures, encompassing import/export businesses (may also be qualified for the E-1), manufacturing, retail storefronts, and many other sectors where significant investment and a true commitment to developing the business are demonstrated. Boundless can help you explore different avenues to see what might be the best fit for your skills and goals. Check your eligibility today.

No. Your E-2 visa itself serves as proof of your work authorization. You are legally permitted to work specifically in the business you invested in.

In some cases, employees of the treaty investor (the person applying for the E-2 visa) may also be eligible for E-2 visas if they have the same nationality as the principal investor and will be engaged in executive, supervisory, or essential duties.

Although it is possible, it is critically important to remember that the E-2 visas require demonstrating ‘nonimmigrant intent’, meaning you only plan to enter the U.S. to work per the E-2, and then you plan to leave the U.S. thereafter. This can create complications in a variety of ways and needs to be carefully considered as part of an E-2 process and future planning.

Treaty investors and their eligible employees can initially stay in the U.S. for up to two years under the E-2 visa. If they need more time, they can request extensions, and each extension can be granted for up to two years. It is also possible, instead of applying for an extension from within the U.S., to travel and re-enter on a valid E-2 visa to get an extended period of E-2 stay.

Yes. E-2 treaty investors can travel outside the U.S. and will typically be granted an automatic two-year period of readmission when returning to the U.S. However, it’s important to note that frequent or extended travel outside the U.S. could cause questions to arise.

Yes. Treaty investors and their employees have the option to include their spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old on their application. Spouses and children can typically apply for E-2S or E-2Y dependent classifications, and if approved, they will typically be allowed to stay for the same duration as the employee. NOTE: It’s not necessary for spouses and children to have the same nationality as the treaty investor or employee.

Yes. In most cases, dependent spouses of E-2 visa holders (in E-2S status) are automatically granted work authorization, without the need to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Dependent spouses can use an unexpired Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) showing their E-2S status as proof of work authorization. 

No. The E-2 visa holder is typically only authorized to work in the U.S. business they have invested in and applied for the visa under. However, you can freely change positions or roles within the same company you originally invested in or possibly transfer to a subsidiary or parent company of your original E-2 business.

Yes. E-2 visa holders must file federal and state tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for all income earned in the U.S. 

Take the first step towards your U.S. business. We’ll confirm your E-2 eligibility and guide you every step of the way.

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E2 Visa Fees: Everything You Need to Know

The E2 visa is a powerful option for investors and entrepreneurs to live and work in the US. In this guide, I will explain all of the E2 visa fees that you should know about before applying for your E2 visa. If you have any questions, or you need help with your E2 visa , feel free to email me directly at [email protected] .

There are 5 main E2 visa fees that are necessary throughout the E2 visa process:

E2 visa application fee or uscis filing fee, immigration lawyer fee, business entity formation, business plan, investment in your e2 business.

To process your application the US immigration department that you submit your case to will charge a fee. There are 2 ways to apply for the E2 classification. You can either do a change of status through USCIS or you can apply for an E2 visa at the US embassy or consulate of your home country. Click here to learn more about the difference between a change of status and applying for an E2 visa .

Change of Status

• If you are filing a petition for a change of status through USCIS, the filing fee for the Form I-129 is $460.
• If you have dependents included in your change of status petition (such as a spouse and child) you will have to file a Form I-539. The filing fee for the Form I-539 in $370.
• The E2 visa is also eligible for premium processing. This means that you have the option to pay an additional $2,500 to have your E2 petition processed in 15 days.
• If you are applying for an E2 visa at a US embassy or consulate in your home country, you will have to file a DS-160. You and each of your dependents (spouse and children) will be charged a fee of $205 (each) to process your DS-160.
• Depending on your country of citizenship, you may also be charged a small fee once your E2 visa is issued at the consulate or embassy.

The immigration lawyer fee is the fee your immigration lawyer will charge you to handle your E2 visa application. The amount your immigration charges you will depend on many factors including their experience and expertise, the specific services they will be providing you, and their particular billing practices.

Helpful Tips:

• Work with a lawyer who will charge you a flat-fee: Make sure to work with an immigration lawyer who will bill you on a flat-fee instead of on an hourly rate. By working with an immigration lawyer who charges a flat-rate, you know exactly what your immigration legal fees will be from the start. By working with a lawyer on an hourly basis, you never know exactly how much your E2 case is going to cost you. Your immigration lawyer will most likely bill you every time they respond to one of your emails or answer one of your calls. Its best to avoid this by working on a flat-fee.
• Choose experience over the lowest price:  It may be tempting to work with the lawyer with the lowest fees. Do yourself a favor and look beyond the fees. Make sure that the immigration lawyer you choose has experience handling E2 cases. The E2 visa has many detailed requirements that must carefully be followed.  How your immigration lawyer prepares and presents your case will have a big impact on your chances of approval. This is why it is highly important to work with an immigration lawyer that knows how to properly file an E2 petition.

If you will be forming a new business for you E2 visa, such as an LLC or a corporation, you will most likely work with a lawyer or a company to set-up your company for you. This fee will vary depending on the lawyer or company you work with.

In most cases, you will need to submit an E2 compliant business plan along with your E2 case. Your E2 business plan should be created by a company that specializes in immigration business plans. The fee for an E2 business plan varies depending on the company you work with.

Your investment isn’t really considered a “fee” however I decided to mention it anyway. To get an E2 visa you are required to make a “substantial” investment in a company. While there is no minimum amount specified by the regulations, a general rule of thumb is to invest at least $100,000 or more in your business. These funds should actually be put at-risk by being spent and/or committed to the business. If the funds are just sitting in the business bank account, they will not be sufficiently at-risk, as required by the E2 visa requirements.

If you have any questions regarding the E2 visa fees, or if you need help getting your E2 visa, email me directly at [email protected] .

• E2 Visa Guide: Everything You Need to Know About the E2 Visa
• US Department of State: Fees for Visa Services
• USCIS: E2 Treaty Investors

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Michael Ashoori, Esq.

U.s. immigration lawyer.

I’m a U.S. immigration lawyer and I help families, professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs get visas, green cards, and citizenship to the United States.

Since starting my law firm, I’ve helped hundreds of people from all over the world with their immigration needs. I’m very passionate, hard-working, and committed to my clients.

Got a question?  Send me an email.

CALL +1-818-741-1117

E2 Visa Guide: Everything You Should Know About the E2 Visa

The E2 visa is a popular option for entrepreneurs and investors looking to live and work in the United States . This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the E2 treaty investor visa, including eligibility requirements, the application process, and key considerations for potential applicants.

What is an E2 Visa?

The E2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows individuals from treaty countries to enter the United States to develop and direct the operations of an enterprise in which they have invested a substantial amount of capital. The visa is typically issued for an initial period of up to two years, with the possibility of extensions.

E2 Visa Requirements

There are 8 main requirements to qualify for an E-2 Visa:

• Treaty Country Status

The applicant must be a citizen of a country that has a commerce and navigation treaty with the United States. A list of these treaty countries can be found on the U.S. Department of State’s website. Here are some major countries that do not have an E2 Treaty with the US: Brazil, China, India, and Russia.

• Intent to Depart

The applicant must have the intent to depart the United States once their US E2 Visa status ends. This means that the E2 business visa is non-immigrant in nature, and the applicant must show plans to leave the U.S. after the business objectives are achieved or the visa expires.

• Substantial Investment

The applicant must have invested, or be actively in the process of investing, a substantial amount of capital in a bona fide enterprise in the United States. While there is no fixed minimum investment amount, it should be significant enough to ensure the success of the business. Generally, investments of at least $100,000 are considered substantial, but this can vary depending on the nature of the business.

• Active, For-Profit Business

The business in question must be a real, active, and operating commercial or entrepreneurial undertaking, producing goods or services for profit. Speculative or idle investments do not qualify.

• Non-Marginal Enterprise

The enterprise must not be marginal. This means it should have the present or future capacity to generate more than enough income to provide a minimal living for the investor and their family, or it must have a significant economic impact in the U.S.

• Role in the Business

The applicant must be coming to the U.S. to develop and direct the enterprise. They must own at least 50% of the business or possess operational control through a managerial position or other corporate device.

• Lawful Source of Funds

The source of the investment funds must be lawful. The applicant must be able to prove that the funds were obtained through legal means, such as earnings, savings, or legitimate business activities.

• At-Risk Investment

The investment must be irrevocably committed to the E2 business and must be at-risk. This means the capital must be subject to partial or total loss if the business fails. Loans secured by the assets of the business are not considered at-risk investments.

E2 Visa Category Simplified

There are two ways to qualify for an investor visa USA E-2:

1.Investment as an Individual

• You invest in a US business as an individual and become the E2 principal investor.
• Your citizenship must be from a treaty country. If you are a dual national, you must apply based on your treaty country nationality.

2.Investment by Foreign Business

• Your foreign business invests in a US business and becomes the E2 principal investor.
• The nationality of the business is determined by its individual owners.
• To qualify, at least 50% of the business must be owned by nationals of the treaty country. If less than 50%, the business must be restructured to meet this requirement.

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E2 Visa Process

Step 1: Prepare the Necessary Documents

Gather all required documents, including:

• Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application)
• Form DS-156E (Nonimmigrant Treaty Trader/Investor Application)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Proof of nationality
• Evidence of the substantial investment
• Business plan
• Evidence that the business is real and operating

Step 2: Submit the E2 Visa application

Submit the necessary forms and documents to the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Pay the applicable visa fees and schedule an interview.

Step 3: Attend the Visa Interview

During the interview, a consular officer will assess your application to determine if you meet the qualifications for the E2 visa. Be prepared to discuss your investment, the business, and your role in its operations.

Step 4: Await Decision

After the interview, the consular officer will decide on your visa application. If approved, you will receive your visa, allowing you to travel to the U.S. and commence your business activities.

Key Considerations

Duration and Extensions

The E2 visa is typically issued for up to two years, but it can be extended indefinitely in two-year increments, as long as the business remains operational and continues to meet the visa requirements.

E2 visa holders can bring their spouse and unmarried children under 21 to the United States. Spouses can apply for work authorization, allowing them to work in the U.S., while children can attend school.

Tax Implications

E2 visa holders are subject to U.S. tax laws. It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional to understand your tax obligations and optimize your financial planning.

Transition to Permanent Residency

The E2 visa does not directly lead to a green card. However, some E2 visa holders may explore other immigration pathways, such as the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, to obtain permanent residency.

How Long Does it Take to Get an E2 Visa?

• Document Gathering

Timeframe: About 1 month.

Details: You’ll need to provide various documents as requested by your immigration attorney. The time can vary based on how quickly you gather and submit these documents.

• Legal Preparation

Timeframe: Approximately 2 weeks.

Details: After you submit your documents, your attorney will prepare and complete your E2 petition.

• Consular Processing or Change of Status

Timeframe: 2-3 months.

Details: Your application is sent to the US consulate in your home country.

• Change of Status (USCIS)

Details: Your application is processed within the US. You can opt for premium processing for an extra $2,500 to reduce the processing time to 15 days. However, if additional evidence is requested, this can extend the timeline.

How Long Can I Stay in the US on an E2 Visa?

The validity of an E2 visa depends on the issuing country and generally ranges from 1 to 5 years. However, a 5-year visa does not allow a 5-year stay in the US at once. Your status determines your stay duration, and with an E2 US visa, you get 2 years of status each time you enter the US. You can re-enter the US to get another 2 years of status, with no limit on renewals, as long as your company meets the E2 requirements.

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What are the e2 visa benefits for my family members.

As an E2 visa holder, your family members also receive benefits:

• Spouse and Unmarried Children: Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old can join you in the US with E2 status.
• Spouse’s Work Permit: Your spouse can apply for a work permit to work in any lawful capacity in the US.
• Children’s Education: Your children can attend school in the US, though they cannot work.

Can I get an E2 visa as an employee of the E2 business?

Noncitizens can get a USA E2 visa through employment with an E2 business. There are three classes of eligible employees:

• Executive Employees
• Supervisory Employees
• Employees with Special Skills essential to the E2 enterprise

How to get E2 visa?

The E2 investment visa provides a viable pathway for entrepreneurs and investors from treaty countries to live and work in the United States. By fulfilling the eligibility requirements and navigating the application process effectively, you can leverage the opportunities this visa offers to expand your business and contribute to the U.S. economy. For personalized advice and expert assistance with your E2 business plan , reach out to our team of experienced E2 business plan writers.

How can we help you?

Get in touch with us or visit our office

Everything You Need to Know About Creating an E2 Visa Business Plan

Interested in an immigration business plan.

If you’re planning to relocate to the United States to operate or start a new business, you’re most likely looking at the E-2 treaty investor visa. The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued to people from treaty nations who have invested or are actively planning to invest a substantial amount of money in a United States business.

The term “substantial amount” is quite unclear and might imply any quantity because no exact minimum has been defined. However, at E-2VisaWorld , we recommend a financial investment of at least $80,000. The E-2 treaty investor visa is generally valid for 3 months to 5 years and can be extended for an indefinite amount of time if the holder desires.

We Specialize in E2 Visa Business Plans

In addition to fulfilling the many eligibility requirements, obtaining an E2 visa requires thoroughly laying out all relevant details about you and your business to the U.S. immigration officials in a simple, easy-to-follow business plan.

To demonstrate that all the E2 visa requirements have been fulfilled, your business plan needs to clearly highlight your qualifications and supply strong financial forecasts . While this might sound complicated, having an expert’s assistance can make all the difference in turning your visa application process into a visa.

At E-2VisaWorld, we have helped individuals from around the world craft comprehensive immigration business plans and applications that highlight their strengths. Here, our experts guide you through everything you need to know about E2 Visa business plans to help you get started.

Why You Need an E2 Visa Business Plan

It’s probably no surprise that your company requires a business plan. As an E2 visa candidate, however, your business plan covers a range of unique needs.

Because the purpose of this plan is to encourage USCIS to approve your business enterprise and to ensure that it meets the requirements for job creation, it isn’t being written for business partners or investors, but instead for the immigration authorities who will review your visa application.

When creating E2 visa business plans , you’ll need to include much of the same content as standard business plans. But you will want to further elaborate on your investment, source of capital, and ability to establish and direct the business. An immigration business plan also requires more background details on you as the candidate in addition to the executive summary and business details that standard business plans set out.

How Should E2 Visa Business Plans Be Written?

Additionally, due to the fact that E2 visa business plans are written explicitly for USCIS , its language and tone should follow both immigration laws and legal business guidelines. The immigration authorities who review your application might not have the same business background as typical readers of business plans, so it’s important to ensure that it is written in clear and straightforward English without any grammar or spelling mistakes.

Because a business plan for immigration has unique needs and is essential to a successful application, having specialized legal assistance is vital to beginning your journey of entrepreneurship in the United States. At E-2VisaWorld , we put the candidate’s interests first and work tirelessly to help them build an application and business plan that will present them as a successful and capable business professional.

What to Include in an E2 Business Plan

To be successful, E-2 business plans should show that candidates have the requisite abilities, skills, background, experience, and resources to effectively begin and grow businesses that offer bona fide products or services and will leverage American employees.

Your E-2 visa business plan will likely be at least 15 pages in length and consist of helpful charts, tables, graphs, and images that will assist in offering the immigration official who reviews your application a thorough understanding of business.

Elements of an E-2 Business Plan

At a minimum, E2 visa business plans should consist of the following:

• An executive summary and business description introducing the company, its products and/or services, and a general overview of why you and your business venture qualify for the E2 visa
• A description of your intended purpose of developing and directing the enterprise, including details that prove that you are entering the United States for the sole purpose of running the business, that you own at least 50% of the business, and that you are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the business
• A target market analysis with information on its conditions, competitors, and an explanation of why your business will succeed in this market
• A comprehensive marketing strategy describing how the business will gain acknowledgment in its target market and how it intends to engage with this market
• A detailed hiring plan for the next 5 years of the company’s operations, including a description of each position they intend to hire and how many employees they intend to hire, that proves that the business will create new jobs for local residents
• A discussion on finances with a 3-5 year financial projection, including a balance sheet, a cash flow statement, and a profit and loss statement, as well as an explanation for the figures and assumptions in these statements
• A section proving that you have possession and control of your investment funds, accompanied by evidence of the source of funds with a clear paper trail and proof that the investment is “substantial” under E-2 investor visa guidelines
• An operational strategy section explaining the company’s organization and management, as well as a description of your skills and experience as the E2 visa applicant and how they relate to the business to ensure its viability

In order to fully, accurately, and effectively capture the above elements, consulting a professional with specialized knowledge is essential. Whether you’re obtaining an E-2 visa by purchasing a franchise or starting an entirely new business from the ground up, we can help. At E-2VisaWorld, our team of experts consists of professionals with backgrounds in both business and immigration and substantial experience managing complex matters from a diverse client base and dozens of industries. Get started by filling out our E-2 eligibility survey today.

How Can Samples of E2 Visa Business Plans Help?

While the above requirements for E2 business plans offer a great starting point when beginning your E2 visa journey, seeing them in action is even better. One of the simplest ways to do this is to take a look at samples of E2 visa business plans, which will help you determine whether the E-2 route is right for you and give you a good idea of the format your business plan will need to follow.

Where to Find an E2 Business Plan Sample

Numerous E2 visa business plans can be found online. These can be great resources for understanding what to expect when creating your business plan. However, it’s best not to rely on them in an attempt to do it yourself.

Your business plan will need to be completely customized based on your business’ specific circumstances . This requires the guidance of a professional who knows exactly what USCIS wants to see. As such, we recommend using business plan samples as a reference point and seeking the services of our attorneys for specialized assistance.

Our Experts Can Help With Your Business Plan for E2 Visa

In our experience, the preparation of a strong, comprehensive business plan that shows how your enterprise satisfies the requirements of the E-2 visa program is vital. Because of that, our business immigration attorneys use their extensive skills, resources, and experience to prepare immigration business plans that satisfy the approval of the toughest immigration and consular officers. Contact the experts at E-2VisaWorld today to schedule a free consultation and begin bringing your international entrepreneurship dreams to life. 

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How Much Does an E2 Visa Business Plan Cost [2024]

Let’s experience personal satisfaction by getting a unique business plan designed by our professionals. Many investors are looking for an opportunity to thrive in the US. However, before applying for the E2 visa, representing a strong, meaningful, and compelling business plan to concerned entities is much more critical as it is a prerequisite document that the US immigration department asks you to submit for your new venture. This document illustrates the proposed investment and serves as the foundation upon which immigration authorities will decide whether you should be granted a visa. Most investors aren’t aware of how much  the E2 Visa Business Plan Cost , but we will explain in this blog according to the recent financial disclosure.

What is the E2 Visa?

If you’re willing to establish a new business or operate an existing one in the United States, applying for the E2 visa might be the best opportunity to earn in a strong and developed country. Although in this non-immigrant visa category, you do not get a green card, individuals from treaty countries should invest more than $150,000 to get the visa. Make sure your investment also makes a significant contribution to the US economy.

Perks of Being an E2 Treaty Investor

Once you present   your credible Immigration Business Plan to the US consulate, there are several benefits you can enjoy while working or living in the US.

• Legally living or operating your own business in the US.
• Allows people to travel across the US without restrictions.
• This is a great chance to renew your two-year E2 visa if your business looks sustainable and functional. 
• No fixed threshold is required for the investment as long as the investment is considered substantiated. 

An Estimated Average Cost for E2 Visa Business Plan

Crafting a business plan all by yourself costs you no bucks, but at the same, you might need more than what you need to stay focused on your goals and the timely results. Shaping your vision in the plan will be challenging, and showing off your plan with insufficient information about your industry would be a significant setback. This type of document involves research and financial projections and requires time investment. Therefore, the most suitable option is to acquire a professional to write your business plan.

However, take the services from a professional  Business Plan Writer . He will charge you a hefty amount for creating a convincing business plan to qualify for an E2 visa at the US embassy.

The amount of your E2 Visa Business Plan Writer charges depends on various factors, some of which are given below.

• Experience and expertise of the writers you hire,
• The specific requirements of the US consulate, 
• The size of your project, 
• And the duration, such as when you want your project to be completed. 

Nevertheless, on average, most professional companies charge between $800 and $2,000 for the E2 visa business plan.

The more complicated and extensive your project will be, the more the writer will charge you for the time required and the effort it takes to create a comprehensive business plan.

A small business with a simple investment structure will likely be cheaper than a business plan for a renowned multinational corporation with multiple investment partners and intricate financial analysis.

Additionally, the specific requirements of the US consulate can also affect the cost of an E2 visa business plan. Some consulates may need more detailed information or documentation than others, which can add to the plan’s overall cost.

Further, by taking service from any freelance writer, you could pay as little as you want compared to Business plan writers cost ,  who cost more than someone offering the services independently.

A business plan drafted by experts and experienced team writing matters a lot. A business plan writer with extensive experience creating E2 visa plans and a better understanding of the US immigration system may charge more for their services than a less experienced writer. So, investing in a high-quality business plan can be less time-consuming, yet it offers excellent chances of obtaining an E2 visa.

It is important to note that this estimate is also based on the needs or features you want added to a business plan, such as market research or financial forecasting. These special services can sharply increase the cost of an E2 visa business plan. If no particular research or tools are required, it will be cheaper. It’s entirely up to you.

Although spending money on an ordinary writer may save hundreds of dollars, it also causes you some terrible and additional expenses. A business plan is an integral part of your E2 visa eligibility. With your application for an E2 visa, you need to include an E2-compliant business plan.

A poorly written business plan may fail to highlight company objectives and strategies. It will also affect your image as a business owner. It may question your viability that you need to have more potential to run the business successfully and implement financial goals. Eventually, this can make it difficult to get future visas or attract investors to start and expand your business.

After closely examining the dependent factors due to which the cost price of a business plan varies, you are now ready to make a move to decide whether you should hire an independent writer who offers services at lower rates than professional business consultants who will write a comprehensive and well-prepared business plan. You can give yourself the best chance of obtaining visa approval and successfully launching your business. Also, consider that a poorly written business plan could cost you much more in the long run, and the application could be delayed or rejected.

We offer  Professional business plan writing services , so you can check out our website to learn about  Small business plan cost and Immigration business plan cost s and details about the L1 Visa Business Plan . As  BPlanWriter wants you to achieve the financial goal you’ve set!

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The E2 Investor Visa allows investors to work inside of the United States based on a $50,000 to $250,000 investment. As part of the visa application, investors need to present a credible business plan for their new venture. Our business plans are custom written to address these requirements.

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How Much Does the E2 Visa Cost in 2023?

In this short post, I answer this popular question: How much does the E2 visa cost in 2023?

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the E2 visa, it is a visa that enables foreign national entrepreneurs to direct and develop a business in the United States after making a qualifying at-risk investment in that business.

The good news is that there is no minimum investment amount. But, here is the catch… you must show that you have spent enough to make the business successful. Therefore, since every business is different, the qualifying investment amount will vary depending on the business model. If you want guidance on whether your investment will qualify, you should reach out to an immigration lawyer who can give you advice that is tailored to your unique situation.

The focus of this post is not on the required investment. Instead, it focuses on the other E2 visa costs that are associated with the application process. There are three main categories of other costs that I will address. These include professional fees, visa fees and reciprocity fees.

Professional Fees | E2 Visa Lawyer and Business Plan Writer

The overall cost of your E2 visa will vary depending on the level of assistance you receive. So, I would like to give you a quick run through of the possible fees. Now it is important to note that I don’t know exactly what other professionals charge. I haven’t conducted any research or surveys. But since I am an immigration lawyer that primarily handles E2 cases, this is my general understanding of some of the professional fees that you can expect. Of course, if you have decided to handle these tasks on your own, you can skip this section altogether.

Immigration Lawyer

If you hire an immigration lawyer, you will probably pay somewhere between $4,000 to $10,000 to assist with the application. This is a lot of money, but the legal fee can be applied towards the investment total and working with a quality lawyer should make the process smoother and less stressful.

Business Plan Writer

A well organized business plan can make a huge difference in an E2 visa application. Therefore, I typically advise my client to obtain a professionally crafted business plan that is tailored to the E2 visa process. Based on my conversations with clients and providers, these will typically range from $1,500-3,000.

E-2 Visa Fees

So the professional fees will vary, but the visa fees are uniform. When you apply for the E2 visa, the main applicant and each dependent family member will complete a form DS-160 . After this is completed, each applicant will be required to pay the visa fee. At the time of this recording the

fee is set at $315 per applicant. To check the current fees, go to the state department website where the various visa fees are clearly listed.

Reciprocity Fee

Ok, so what is a reciprocity fee and how do you know if you have to pay it?

The state department addresses these questions on their website…

Nonimmigrant visa applicants from certain countries*/areas of authority may be required to pay a visa issuance fee after their application is approved. These fees are based on the principle of reciprocity: when a foreign government imposes fees on U.S. citizens for certain types of visas, the United States will impose a reciprocal fee on citizens of that country*/area of authority for similar types of visas.

So, in the E2 visa context, if a country charges US citizens for an E2 visa(or an equivalent visa), we will in turn charge their citizens the same fee before they will be issued an E2 visa.

To view the Reciprocity Page for your country, you will look at the visa reciprocity table that is posted by the US Department of State and navigate to your country and then look at the E2 column.

These fees vary depending on your nationality. For example, the fee for Canada and the UK is currently $0. The fee for Italy is $198. The current fee for Australia is a whopping $3,464. And to make matters worse, the reciprocity fee is due for each applicant. So, if you have a family of four and all of you are using your Australian citizenship to apply for the E2 visa, then you will have to shell out a total of $13,856 before you are issued the visas. Fortunately, you will not be charged this amount until your visa application is approved, but still that is a lot of money.

Summary: E2 Visa Cost in 2023

So to summarize the typical E2 visa cost at the time of this writing…You can expect to pay $0 to 13,000 for professional fees depending on the level of service you require; the E2 visa fee will be $315 per applicant and the reciprocity fees will range from $0 to over $3,000 depending on your country of nationality.

I hope this information was helpful.

Thanks for your time!

Ben Frear, Esq.

Immigration Lawyer For Entrepreneurs and Investors

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The cost of an E2 visa business plan

• Sylvain Perret
• April 27, 2023

E2 Business Plan

For anyone looking to invest in the United States and obtain an E2 visa , having a well-written business plan is absolutely essential. This document not only outlines the proposed investment, but also serves as the foundation upon which the visa application will be judged. But what is the cost of an E2 visa business plan and what factors come into play when determining this cost? In this article, we will explore these questions in detail.

The average cost is between $1,800 and $3,500

The cost of an E2 visa business plan can vary depending on a number of factors, including the complexity and scope of the investment project, the specific requirements of the US consulate, and the expertise and experience of the individual or team writing the plan. However, on average, most E2 visa business plans will cost between $1,800 and $3,500.

When it comes to the complexity and scope of the investment project, it is important to note that the more complex and larger the project, the more time and effort it will take to create a comprehensive business plan. For instance, a business plan for a small business with a simple investment structure will likely be less expensive than a business plan for a large corporation with multiple investment partners and intricate financial projections.

In addition, the specific requirements of the US consulate can also affect the cost of an E2 visa business plan. Some consulates may require more detailed information or documentation than others, which can add to the overall cost of the plan.

Another factor to consider is the expertise and experience of the individual or team writing the plan. A business plan writer with extensive experience in creating E2 visa plans and a deep understanding of the US immigration system may charge more for their services than a less experienced writer. However, it is important to remember that investing in a high-quality business plan can ultimately save time and money in the long run by increasing the chances of approval for the E2 visa.

It is important to note that this estimate is based on a standard business plan and does not include additional services or features that a business plan writer may offer, such as market research or financial forecasting. These additional services can bump up the cost of an E2 visa business plan substantially. However, they can also provide valuable insights and data that can help investors make informed decisions about their investment project.

A bad E2 visa business plan is always too expensive

While it may seem tempting to try and save money by hiring an inexperienced or unqualified business plan writer, it is important to understand that a bad E2 visa business plan can ultimately end up costing you much more in the long run.

When applying for an E2 visa, the business plan is a crucial component of the application. The plan needs to clearly outline the nature of the business, its objectives, and how it plans to generate revenue. It should also demonstrate how the business will contribute to the US economy and create jobs for American citizens.

However, a poorly written business plan may fail to address these requirements, leading to your application being denied or delayed. This can result in additional expenses such as the need for legal representation and a longer stay in your home country, as well as lost opportunities and investments.

Furthermore, a bad business plan can also harm your reputation as an entrepreneur. If the US consulate determines that your plan is inadequate, it may raise questions about your ability to successfully run a business. This can make it difficult for you to obtain future visas or attract investors for your business.

Therefore, it is important to invest in a high-quality business plan that meets the specific requirements of the E2 visa application. This will not only increase your chances of success, but also save you money and protect your reputation in the long run.

The cost of an E2 visa business plan can vary depending on a number of factors, but it is an essential investment for anyone looking to invest in the United States and obtain an E2 visa. By hiring an experienced business plan writer and investing in a comprehensive and well-prepared business plan, you can give yourself the best chance of obtaining visa approval and successfully launching your investment in the US. Remember, a poorly prepared business plan could cost you much more in the long run, so make sure to do your due diligence when choosing a writer for your E2 visa business plan.

E2 Business Broker

Sylvain Perret is a business professional who has been living in the United States since 2010. Along with his wife Daphnee, he has established several businesses in the country, including Integrity International Brokers, an agency based in Orlando where he works as a business broker, real estate broker, business consultant, and business plan writer. Over the years, he has helped numerous clients from around the world achieve success in their projects to create or take over a company in the United States with an E2 visa. He is highly knowledgeable about U.S. immigration issues and is the author of the book "S'expatrier aux USA grâce aux visas d'entrepreneurs" , which is soon to be translated into English. Sylvain is also a Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) by the International Business Brokers Association and is regularly consulted on issues related to this field. At the age of 50, Sylvain chose to enhance his expertise in finance and strategy by pursuing a Master of Business Administration from the University of Central Florida. He successfully graduated in May 2023, adding a valuable finishing touch to his knowledge. He is active on LinkedIn and Twitter, where he shares his insights and experiences with a wider audience.

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Last Updated on August 16, 2023 by Sylvain Perret

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E-2 visa requirements include –

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• Must have a detailed business plan and a business that is ready to open .
• Show they have a substantial investment on hand to open the business and to keep it running until it can sustain itself.

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What is E-2 Visa? An Overview for Treaty Investors

The E-2 Visa is a U.S. visa category specifically for nationals of certain treaty countries who wish to invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business. This visa allows investors, as well as their executives, managers, or employees with essential skills, to live and work in the United States to develop and direct the operations of the enterprise they are investing in.

Who Qualifies for the E-2 Visa?

To be eligible for the E-2 Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Nationality: You must be a citizen of a country that has a commerce and navigation treaty with the United States.
• Investment: You must invest or be in the process of investing a substantial amount of capital in a bona fide U.S. enterprise.
• Control and Operation: You must be entering the United States solely to develop and direct the investment enterprise. This typically means you must own at least 50% of the enterprise or possess operational control through a managerial position or other corporate devices.
• Risk of Loss: The investment must be at risk of being lost if the business fails, meaning the capital is subject to partial or total loss.
• Job Creation: While not an explicit requirement, the investment should ideally create jobs for U.S. workers or contribute positively to the U.S. economy.

Benefits of the E-2 Visa

The E-2 Visa offers several significant advantages:

• Renewable Visa: The E-2 Visa can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business continues to operate successfully and the investment is maintained.
• Dependents: Your spouse and children (under 21) can accompany you to the U.S. under E-2 dependent visas. Your spouse can also apply for work authorization, allowing them to work in the United States.
• No Minimum Investment Requirement: There is no fixed minimum amount required for the investment, although it must be substantial in relation to the total cost of purchasing or establishing the business.

How to Apply for an E-2 Visa

Applying for the E-2 Visa involves several steps:

• Determine Treaty Eligibility: Confirm that your country has a qualifying treaty with the United States.
• Prepare the Investment: Ensure that your investment is substantial and that it meets the necessary criteria for the E-2 Visa.
• File Form DS-160: Complete and submit Form DS-160, the online nonimmigrant visa application.
• Submit Supporting Documents: Gather and submit documents that demonstrate your eligibility, including proof of investment, evidence of treaty nationality, and business plans.
• Attend the Visa Interview: Attend a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Be prepared to discuss your investment, the business plan, and your role in the enterprise.
• Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the required visa application fee, which varies by country.

The E-2 Visa is an excellent option for treaty investors looking to live and work in the United States while developing and directing a business enterprise. With the possibility of indefinite renewals and the ability for spouses to work, the E-2 Visa provides significant opportunities for investors. If you believe you qualify, it is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney to navigate the application process effectively.

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If you have questions regarding the E2 Visa for treaty investors, we invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews ! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.

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