Read the general investor planning overview
A business forecast should describe the enterprise actually being purchased or started. Several activities may contribute to the plan, but favorable sales assumptions cannot erase the costs and ownership facts behind them.
Define the activities included in the transaction
Hypothetical example: a buyer expects both equipment sales and maintenance income. Identify which assets, contracts and obligations are actually transferred. Explain proposed additions as proposals rather than existing revenue.
Follow capital through the real enterprise
Assess lawful source and path, substantial committed funds at risk and actual operating activity. There is no universal E-2 investment minimum. Properly structured visa-contingent escrow can require review; funds merely reserved are not automatically invested. Identify financing security rather than assuming all borrowed money qualifies.
Keep direction and nonmarginality in the account
The investor needs qualifying treaty nationality and development and direction, with generally at least half the enterprise owned by relevant treaty-country nationals. Explain capacity beyond minimal living for the investor and family or a significant economic contribution. Evaluate the complete enterprise rather than excluding genuine expenses from one line of business. 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.