Read the general investor planning overview
Funds reserved for a business can support planning without establishing that the investor has made the required commitment. Identify the actual enterprise and transaction rather than relying on purchasing power alone.
Trace what has actually been committed
E-2 requires lawful substantial capital committed at risk in relation to the business, with no universal fixed minimum. Explain the actual source and path and distinguish available balances from invested funds. Properly structured visa-contingent escrow may qualify, but a budget for optional future expenditure is not automatically the same commitment.
Keep directing rights and financing conditions visible
Relevant treaty nationals must own at least 50% of the enterprise, and the investor must develop and direct through at least 50% ownership or other qualifying operational control. Personal unsecured borrowing or debt secured solely by non-enterprise personal assets may count. Enterprise-secured debt is excluded even with personal collateral. A cash reserve cannot replace these separate conditions.
Assess the actual enterprise and proposed work
The business must be real and nonmarginal, supporting more than minimal living for the investor and family or a significant economic contribution; future capacity should generally be realizable within five years of normal business activity. The investor must intend to depart when E status ends, and Canadians generally need an E visa. Funding readiness or a completed transfer does not itself authorize U.S. business work.
What else is on your mind?
Is there one minimum investment that guarantees E-2 eligibility?Is holding money or owning an asset enough for E-2?Editorial source review: 2026-09-08. General preparation guidance, not an individual assessment.