Read the general investor planning overview
A list of possible businesses is a planning tool, not evidence that the applicant has invested in all of them. Identify the real enterprise and transaction before calculating qualifying capital.
Trace the genuine commitment
E-2 has no universal fixed minimum: lawful capital must be substantial in relation to the business and committed at risk. Properly structured visa-contingent escrow may qualify. Identify the actual payment and release conditions instead of adding the prices of mutually exclusive opportunities as though they were completed commitments.
Read this enterprise’s ownership and financing
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 borrowing secured solely by non-enterprise personal assets may count. Enterprise-secured debt is excluded even with personal collateral. Rights or financing in another business cannot answer these facts for the actual enterprise.
Assess the operation the applicant will direct
The business must be real and nonmarginal, capable of more than minimal living for the investor and family or a significant economic contribution; projected capacity should generally be realizable within five years of normal business activity. Describe actual resources and activities. Intent to depart when E status ends remains required; Canadians generally need an E visa. A portfolio plan does not authorize work in every proposed business.
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.