Investing in America – E2 Visa PART – 3

In summary, the E-2 visa serves as a significant pathway for entrepreneurs and investors from treaty nations to actively engage in and contribute to the American economy. Its focus on active investment and business management allows U.S. markets to gain from foreign capital while facilitating global economic partnerships.
Ok, now that you have a great understanding as to how the E-2 visa works, let’s talk about our interview with Jane and share what she told us.

After years of dreaming about life in the United States, Jane, a Scottish entrepreneur, turned her vision into reality through the E-2 visa program—a pathway that allows foreign nationals to invest in and run a business in the U.S.

Jane’s journey began with a bold decision: she and her family no longer wanted to postpone their dream until retirement. “We didn’t want to wake up one day and say, ‘I wish we had done that,’” she explained. With that mindset, they began researching their options and found a U.S. immigration law firm whose detailed resources and success stories gave them confidence.

The family soon identified Yodel, a dog grooming business, as their opportunity. They flew to the U.S. to meet the owners and evaluate the community. Impressed by the demand for pet services, they agreed to move forward.

The visa process involved meticulous preparation. With the law firm’s guidance, they gathered all the required documentation, formed an LLC, and negotiated with the business owners to wait for their visa approval before finalizing the purchase.

The embassy interview in London was nerve-wracking but successful. “The bad news is you have to pay us,” the officer said. “The good news is you’ve got your visa.” The relief and excitement were immense.

Once they arrived in the U.S., the real work began. Jane and her team rolled up their sleeves to transition the business, facing challenges such as utility deposits—unexpected costs for newcomers without U.S. credit histories or Social Security numbers. “We weren’t from the grooming industry, so the staff were unsure at first,” she admitted. “But we earned their trust.”

Adjusting to life in California brought its own surprises—especially the weather. “Coming from rainy Scotland, waking up to blue skies every day still feels surreal,” Jane said. Her daughter initially hesitated but quickly embraced her new school and surroundings.

Now fully settled, Jane and her family are thriving. “It’s been a long journey, but absolutely worth it,” she said. “We’re not just running a business—we’re living the American dream.”