Read the general investor planning overview
An enterprise can have current activity and plans for growth. Keep the two visible in an E-2 account so that future commitments and revenue are not presented as existing results.
Define the enterprise receiving the investment
Hypothetical example: an operator proposes another location. Identify actual ownership, assets and costs and explain whether the financial records concern the same enterprise. Do not attribute a separate business’s results without explaining the relationship.
Identify funds actually committed
Lawful source and path, capital at risk and substantiality remain relevant. There is no universal E-2 minimum; assess the business’s real cost and nature. Money reserved for possible growth does not automatically qualify, and financing security or visa-contingent escrow needs its own review.
Preserve direction and nonmarginality
The investor needs qualifying treaty nationality and development and direction, with generally at least half the enterprise owned by relevant treaty-country nationals. Explain real operation and capacity beyond minimal living for the investor and family or a significant economic contribution. Forecasts should remain identifiable as forecasts. Future capacity should generally be attainable within five years of normal business activity.
What else is on your mind?
Is there one minimum investment that guarantees E-2 eligibility?Is holding money or owning an asset enough for E-2?Editorial source review: 2026-09-07. General preparation guidance, not an individual assessment.