The E-2 Investor Visa is one of the most attractive options for entrepreneurs and investors who want to start or buy a business in the United States. But one question confuses nearly everyone: how much money counts as a “substantial investment”?
The answer isn’t a fixed number it’s all about proportion, risk, and commitment. Let’s break it down so you know what qualifies and how to strengthen your E-2 visa case.
1. No Fixed Dollar Amount
Unlike some other U.S. visa categories, the E-2 visa has no minimum investment requirement. There’s no official rule that says you must invest $100,000 or $200,000. Instead, the U.S. government looks at whether the investment is substantial relative to the total cost of the business.
For example:
- If your business costs $80,000 to start, investing $70,000 could be considered substantial.
- But if your business costs $500,000, investing $70,000 would not be enough.
The investment must show your financial commitment and ability to make the business operational.
2. The “Proportionality Test”
U.S. consular officers use what’s called the Proportionality Test. This means your investment should be large enough in proportion to the total business cost to ensure your success.
In simple terms:
✅ The lower the total cost, the higher the percentage you must invest.
✅ The higher the total cost, the lower the percentage required.
So, an investor spending 80% of a $100,000 startup cost might qualify while someone investing 40% of a $1 million project could still meet the “substantial” test.
3. The Funds Must Be “At Risk”
Another key factor: your money must be actively at risk. This means it’s already committed or spent on business expenses like leases, inventory, or equipment. Simply keeping the funds in a personal bank account doesn’t qualify.
The U.S. wants to see financial exposure that you’re serious about building the business and not just holding money for a visa.
4. The Business Must Be Real and Operating
Your investment should go into a real, active, and legitimate enterprise that produces goods or services. Passive investments like buying stocks or holding property do not qualify.
The business must also have the potential to generate more than enough income to support you and your family ideally, it should create jobs for U.S. workers too.
5. Proving Source and Legitimacy of Funds
You’ll need to show that the funds come from lawful sources such as savings, inheritance, or legitimate business profits. Every dollar invested must be traceable, with documentation like bank transfers, sale deeds, or tax records.
6. Typical Investment Ranges
While there’s no official minimum, successful E-2 applications usually involve investments between $100,000 and $300,000 USD, depending on the business type. Service-based startups may qualify with less, while retail or manufacturing ventures often require more.
Final Thoughts
A “substantial investment” under the E-2 Investor Visa isn’t just about the amount of money it’s about commitment, proportionality, and real business risk. The more serious your investment looks, the stronger your case becomes.
If your business is already active, funds are spent, and your plans are credible, your E-2 visa chances rise dramatically opening doors to building your entrepreneurial dream in the USA.
