Thinking Of Starting a Business in the U.S.? You May Be Closer Than You Think
- Shneur Herman
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
How Canadian entrepreneurs are using the E-2 visa to invest and move south.
Are you a Canadian entrepreneur dreaming about launching your business in the U.S.? You might be surprised to learn that a little-known visa could be the golden ticket to making that dream a reality - without needing a green card or a million-dollar investment.
It’s called the E-2 visa, and it’s designed specifically for business-minded individuals like you who are ready to invest in and run a U.S.-based company.
Let’s break it down.
What Is the E-2 Visa?
The E-2 is a nonimmigrant investor visa that allows Canadians (and other treaty country nationals) to live and work in the U.S. by starting or buying into a business.
It’s not permanent - but it is renewable indefinitely, and a popular pathway for those who want to build a life and business in the U.S.
Why Canadians Love the E-2 Visa
No need for an employer or job offer
Control your own business and operations
Bring your spouse and children
Spouse can apply for work authorization
Children can attend school in the U.S.
Fast processing through U.S. consulates in Canada
What Are the Basic Requirements?
To qualify for an E-2 visa as a Canadian:
You must be a Canadian citizen(Permanent residents don’t qualify - only citizens)
You must invest in a real U.S. business
This can be a start-up or an existing business
Passive investments like stocks or real estate won’t work
The business must be active and for-profit
Your investment must be “substantial”
There's no set dollar amount, but typically $70-$100K+ is considered strong
The investment must be at risk - meaning it's already committed and tied to business operations
You must direct and develop the business
You must be actively involved, not just a silent investor
You must show you're coming to the U.S. to run the company
The business must not be “marginal”
It must have the capacity to create U.S. jobs and generate more than just a living for you
A solid business plan and hiring strategy help here
Can My Family Come Too?
Yes. Your spouse and children (under 21) can accompany you:
Spouse can apply for work authorization
Children can attend school or university
They’ll receive E-2 dependent visas (E-2S and E-2Y)
How Long Can I Stay?
Canadians are typically granted 5 years at a time
You can renew indefinitely as long as your business is operating and you continue to meet the requirements
Many E-2 entrepreneurs go on to apply for green cards through other channels
What Kind of Businesses Qualify?
E-2 businesses vary widely. Some popular examples include:
Tech startups
Franchises (restaurants, retail, fitness)
Consulting agencies
Real estate services
Online product companies
Trades and construction services
Professional services (accounting, design, marketing)
Already have a successful business in Canada? You can even expand it to the U.S. using the E-2 visa structure.
You Might Be Closer Than You Think
If you’ve got a solid business idea (or an existing Canadian company) and are ready to make an investment, you might already be halfway there.
Not sure if your plan qualifies? Let us review your case - free of charge - and help you understand what’s possible with the E-2 visa. We’ve helped Canadian entrepreneurs from all backgrounds make the move confidently and legally.
