Read the general investor planning overview
An operating manager can perform genuine daily responsibilities while the investor retains specified rights. Assess the actual direction and capital arrangement rather than assuming the staffing title decides eligibility.
Identify the investor’s real directing rights
Relevant treaty nationals must own at least 50% of the enterprise, and the applicant must develop and direct through at least 50% ownership or other qualifying operational control. Describe the actual rights retained and delegated. Neither a shareholder title nor a manager’s contract should be treated as the entire control analysis.
Trace the lawful business commitment
Capital must be substantial in relation to the enterprise and committed at risk, with no universal minimum. Properly structured visa-contingent escrow may qualify. Personal unsecured borrowing or debt secured solely by non-enterprise personal assets may count; enterprise-secured borrowing is excluded even with personal collateral. Hiring a manager does not resolve source, path or financing conditions.
Assess the actual operating capacity
The real enterprise must be nonmarginal, supporting 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. Explain genuine resources rather than assuming a salary line guarantees viability. Intent to depart when E status ends remains required, and Canadians generally need an E visa. A management agreement is not work permission.
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.