How to Make Your E-2 Visa Business Strong Enough to Get Approved

The E-2 investor visa is one of the most flexible paths for entrepreneurs who want to live and work in the United States. But approval depends on one key factor: the strength of your business.

A solid business plan proves that your investment is not only real but that it supports a viable, job-creating enterprise.

At Brudner Law, we help investors across California build strong, compliant E-2 applications backed by detailed business strategies and lawful funding.

When it comes to the E-2 visa, your business plan isn’t just paperwork. It’s your proof of purpose.

Understand What USCIS Really Looks For

The E-2 visa isn’t just about how much you spend. It’s about how effectively your money sustains a real, active, and profitable business.

When reviewing an application, USCIS and the U.S. Department of State look for:

• Proof of substantial investment proportional to your business type.
• Evidence that funds are committed and at risk, not just sitting in an account.
• A legitimate operating business that produces goods or services, not a passive investment such as real estate.

To understand the official framework, visit the U.S. Department of State’s E-2 Treaty Investors page.

Learn how Brudner Law helps investors meet every E-2 requirement from the start and build an application strong enough for approval.

Build a Detailed and Credible Business Plan

Your business plan is both your roadmap and your evidence; it shows USCIS how your investment will operate, grow, and create jobs in the U.S.

Immigration officers expect to see measurable goals and realistic financial data, not vague promises. Include:

• Five-year financial projections showing growth and job creation.
• Operating expense breakdowns, such as leases, inventory, and payroll.
• Market research proving there is real demand for your product or service.
• Hiring timelines that outline when and how you will add U.S. employees.

Every number should connect to verifiable research and documentation. Overly ambitious or inconsistent projections are red flags.

Discuss your E-2 business plan with an experienced attorney to make sure your evidence and financial data meet government expectations.

Show That Your Investment is “Substantial”

“Substantial” doesn’t necessarily mean millions, but it does mean enough to make your business succeed.

USCIS and consular officers use the principle of proportionality, comparing your investment to the total startup or purchase cost. For most industries, successful E-2 investments fall between $100,000 and $300,000, depending on business type and location.

To prove your investment qualifies, provide:

• Bank transfer records, contracts, or purchase receipts showing your capital has been committed.
• Escrow documentation if funds are contingent on visa approval.
• Transparent, traceable financial records verifying your funding sources are lawful.

The clearer your documentation, the stronger your case.

Prove That Your Business is More Than Marginal

USCIS may deny an E-2 application if the business only supports the investor’s personal income. To qualify, you must show that your enterprise will have a meaningful economic impact in the United States.

Read our related post: Is Your E-2 Business Too Marginal to Get Approved?

Demonstrate that your business will:

• Hire U.S. workers or contractors within the first few years.
• Contribute to the local economy through goods, services, and tax revenue.
• Generate profits beyond your personal living expenses.

Support your plan with vendor contracts, letters of intent, or signed leases that prove operations are already underway.

If your E-2 was denied as “marginal,” our attorneys can help you strengthen your case and reapply.

Get Legal Guidance Before You File

The most successful E-2 applications come from collaboration between the investor, a financial advisor, and an experienced immigration attorney.

Legal guidance ensures that you:

• Avoid incomplete or inconsistent documentation.
• Address country-specific treaty requirements.
• Prepare confidently for your consular interview.

Discuss your E-2 business plan with an experienced attorney before filing to make sure it meets every legal and financial requirement.

For a list of qualifying countries, refer to the U.S. Department of State’s directory of E-2 treaty countries.

A Strong Business Builds a Stronger Case

Every successful E-2 visa starts with a credible business plan and clear financial proof. When your investment demonstrates real commitment and economic value, you’re one step closer to approval.

If you’re ready to bring your business to the U.S., contact Brudner Law today. Our attorneys can help you prepare, document, and present a complete E-2 visa application that’s strong enough to succeed.

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