Secure Your E-2 Visa: Make a Substantial Investment

Launch Your U.S. Business with Confidence

Welcome to Part 4 of the Law Offices of Chris M. Ingram’s E-2 Visa series! We’re excited to guide you through the “substantial investment” requirement, helping you achieve your American Dream with a strong E-2 visa application.

What Is a Substantial Investment?

The E-2 visa doesn’t set a minimum investment, but USCIS uses the proportionality test to evaluate your investment. This test compares your invested amount to the total cost of starting or buying your business. For example, a $10,000 deposit on a $100,000 business (10%) fails the test. Aim for 100% investment—$100,000 for a $100,000 business or a significant portion for larger ventures (e.g., $500,000).

Investment Guidelines

While no legal minimum exists, we recommend $125,000–$250,000 for long-term success, with $150,000+ ideal. In regions like Asia, embassies may reject lower investments (e.g., $75,000), so aim for $200,000+ to strengthen your case.

Your Path to Success

Like our client Shegar, who thrived buying FedEx routes, a smart investment ensures stability. Stay tuned for Part 5 on choosing the right business. Contact us for a free consultation to craft a winning E-2 visa investment strategy today!

General Overview – E Visa USA Options

E2 Part 1 – E2 Investment Visa Requirements

E2 Part 2 – E2 Visa Treaty Countries

E2 Part 3 – E2 Spouse or Employee Visa

E2 Part 4 – E2 Visa USA Minimum Investment Amount

E2 Part 5 – Finding the Right E2 Visa Business for Sale

E2 Part 6 – Retirement, E2 Visa to Green Card Process

E2 Part 7 – E2 Visa Renewal Requirements

E2 Part 8 – Investor Immigration USA Requirements Summary

Chris M. Ingram, a U.S. Immigration Attorney, is originally from Northampton, England. He earned his BA (Hons) in Law from De Montfort University, Leicester, UK, in 1994. In 1996, he completed his Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (PGDLP) at De Montfort School of Law, followed by a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from Huddersfield University, UK, in 1998. After relocating to the United States, Chris was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2003 and has been a proud member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) since 2004.

Having experienced the U.S. immigration process firsthand with his wife and three children, Chris M. Ingram founded his law firm with a mission to ensure that every client receives the best possible immigration experience. He recognized the need for accessible and comprehensive immigration education, leading him to develop one of the most informative online platforms available today.

The Law Offices of Chris M. Ingram website now features:

1. Over 1,000 pages of immigration resources
2. Hundreds of educational videos on visa and green card options
3. Client success stories and testimonials to inspire new applicants

We continually update and expand our content to keep visitors informed about the latest immigration policies, visa options, and legal strategies.