If you’re applying for an E-2 visa, one of the biggest concerns you probably have is:
“What are the chances of my E-2 visa being denied?”

While U.S. government data might give you hope, the truth is more complicated. At Legal Reliance, we’ve worked with dozens of clients and seen both approvals and refusals up close. In this blog, we’ll break down the real E-2 visa denial rate, what the statistics say, and what your real chances are plus how to avoid the mistakes that lead to rejection.

E-2 Visa Denial Rate: What the Official Stats Say

According to the U.S. Department of State, the E-2 visa approval rate tends to be relatively high often above 80–90% worldwide. That might sound reassuring, but numbers only tell part of the story.

Here’s the problem:

• Many weak or incomplete E-2 applications never get submitted.
• Some applications are denied informally or withdrawn before a formal decision.
• Consulates in different countries have different standards and varying scrutiny levels.

Why E-2 Visas Get Denied in Real Life

From our real experience helping E-2 visa applicants, denials usually happen for one or more of the following reasons:

• Insufficient investment: If the investment isn’t substantial or doesn’t match the business model, it raises red flags.
• Lack of business readiness: If your business isn’t operational or lacks a clear structure, your application appears weak.
• Unclear source of funds: If you can’t prove where your money came from legally, you’re at serious risk of denial.
• Poorly written business plan: A vague or unrealistic business plan can kill your chances.
• Intent to work outside the E-2 business: If you suggest doing freelance work or other jobs, that’s grounds for refusal.

Even with all documents submitted, your consular interview plays a huge role. Poor communication or misunderstanding during the interview can lead to unexpected refusals.

How to Boost Your Approval Odds

You need more than just a checklist you need strategy. Here’s how Legal Reliance helps reduce E-2 visa denial risk:

• We evaluate your business investment and ensure it meets legal thresholds.
• We create clear, credible documentation for source and path of funds.
• We help you develop a strong E-2 business plan tailored to U.S. immigration standards.
• We prepare you for the visa interview because presentation matters.
• We ensure full compliance with E-2 visa requirements so there are no surprises.

Conclusion: E-2 Visa Approval Is Achievable If You Do It Right

So, how often do E-2 visas get denied? Statistically, not that often but when they do, it’s usually because of avoidable mistakes. Don’t rely solely on approval rates focus on the quality of your application, your legal structure, and your investment documentation.

At Legal Reliance, we don’t just prepare applications we build strong, personalized E-2 visa cases that stand up to scrutiny. If you’re serious about succeeding, don’t take chances. Work with experienced professionals who know the system inside and out.