What Is the Minimum Investment for an E-2 Visa? (2026)
Updated September 2026 · Reviewed by Talia Harari, Attorney
There is no legal minimum investment for the E-2 visa. In practice, most approved cases invest between roughly $50,000 and $150,000 or more. The real test is proportionality: the amount must be substantial for the specific business you are buying or building.
How officers actually judge the amount
The regulation asks whether your investment is substantial relative to the total cost of that type of business, and whether it is enough to make the enterprise operational. $60,000 fully funding a cleaning franchise reads as substantial; the same amount as a downpayment on a restaurant buildout reads as thin. This proportionality logic is why choosing the right business type matters as much as the number itself.
What must be true of the money
The funds must be yours (lawfully sourced, which you will document), committed and at risk, not sitting in savings waiting for approval. Escrow arrangements conditioned on visa approval are the standard way to protect a business purchase. Spending on the lease, equipment, franchise fees, and inventory before the interview is normal and expected. For what leverage and loans can contribute, see our guide to financed funds; for the full budget picture, the E-2 cost guide.
Wondering if your budget is enough for the E-2?
Check your eligibilityTell us your numbers and we will match you with a vetted E-2 attorney for a straight answer.
Frequently asked questions
Is $50,000 enough for an E-2 visa?
It can be, when it fully funds a genuinely operational business of that scale and the plan shows growth beyond marginality. Smaller investments carry a higher documentation burden.
Does the investment have to be spent before approval?
Largely committed, yes: spent or irrevocably committed (escrow for a purchase counts). Untouched money in your account does not demonstrate an at-risk investment.
Related: all E-2 requirements, businesses that fit the E-2, and the complete E-2 guide.
IAVRS is an immigration attorney matching service, not a law firm. This is general information, not legal advice. For advice on your case, we will match you with a licensed U.S. immigration attorney.