When people hear “investor visa,” they often assume you need millions in the bank. But if you’re considering the E-2 visa, you might be surprised to learn that it can actually be an option even if you’re not rich. In fact, many entrepreneurs have successfully moved to the U.S. and built thriving businesses with $100,000 or less.
If you’re wondering whether the E-2 visa is a realistic path for someone with limited capital here’s what you really need to know.
Understanding the E-2 Visa
The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows citizens of treaty countries to invest in and operate a business in the United States. It’s one of the more flexible U.S. visa options for entrepreneurs, but there are a few key requirements:
- You must be from an E-2 treaty country
- You must invest in a real and active business
- Your investment must be substantial and at risk
- The business must have the potential to generate more than just enough to support you
The biggest gray area? That word “substantial.” There’s no official minimum investment amount and that’s where it gets interesting.
Can You Qualify for an E-2 Visa with Less Than $100k?
Yes but it depends on the type of business you’re investing in. If you’re starting a low-overhead, service-based business, such as digital marketing, consulting, e-commerce, or a small franchise, your startup costs may be well below $100,000. The U.S. government will consider the proportionality of your investment meaning, how much of your total business cost you’ve already spent.
If your business only costs $70,000 to launch, and you’ve already committed most of that amount, you might still qualify. However, the lower your investment, the more scrutiny your application will face.
Smart Business Ideas Under $100k for E-2 Visa
If you’re working with limited funds, your best option is a lean, scalable business that doesn’t require large infrastructure. Here are some real-world examples that can fit under a $100k investment:
- Small digital marketing agency
- Online retail or dropshipping store
- Boutique consulting firm
- Mobile car detailing business
- Small café or food truck
- Low-cost franchise opportunities
- Language tutoring or education services
- Airbnb property management or rental services
These types of businesses typically require modest startup costs, can be operated by one or two people at first, and have growth potential — all factors immigration officers want to see.
Tips to Strengthen Your E-2 Case on a Budget
If you’re applying with less than $100,000, your application must be tight, well-documented, and convincing. Here’s how:
- Have a professional business plan. Include financial projections, market research, and hiring goals.
- Show that your investment is “at risk.” Don’t just keep it in the bank spend it on business essentials like inventory, rent, or equipment.
- Prove your business is real and operational. Lease signed? Website live? Employees hired? These details matter.
- Be clear about job creation. The business doesn’t need to hire 10 people on day one, but you must show the potential to grow and create U.S. jobs.
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Be Rich But You Do Have to Be Smart
So, is the E-2 visa a good option if you’re not rich? Absolutely as long as you choose the right business, invest wisely, and present a strong, well-prepared case. Many successful E-2 visa holders started small, built slowly, and grew over time. You can too.
Whether you’re working with $50k, $75k, or close to $100k it’s not about how much you invest, but how strategically you do it. The E-2 visa is still one of the best paths to living and working in the U.S. as an entrepreneur even if you’re starting with less.
