Read the general investor planning overview
A seller’s records can explain a former operation without proving the resources or activity the new investor will actually have. Identify the genuine purchase, commitment and operating plan.
Establish the present ownership and direction
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. Explain what the actual transaction transfers. A historical business name or transfer of keys is not the entire authority analysis.
Trace lawful funds committed to the real restart
Capital must be substantial in relation to the business 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 debt is excluded even with personal collateral. The seller’s earlier expenditure is not automatically the new applicant’s contribution.
Keep old performance separate from credible projections
The enterprise must be real and 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 actual resources rather than presenting former staff and sales as current. Intent to depart when E status ends remains required, and Canadians generally need an E visa. Reopening does not itself authorize U.S. 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.