UI
uk_investor_marcusOPMay 1, 2026UK citizen, looking to buy a small US franchise (cleaning or food service) and apply for E-2. read varying numbers — $50k vs $100k vs $200k as "minimum." what's actually required and what's realistic?
UK citizen, looking to buy a small US franchise (cleaning or food service) and apply for E-2. read varying numbers — $50k vs $100k vs $200k as "minimum." what's actually required and what's realistic?
no statutory minimum. USCIS uses "substantiality" + "marginality" tests. for service businesses, expect to need $80-150k actually invested and at-risk to be approved. less than $50k usually fails marginality (i.e., needs to support more than just owner).
franchise documents help — they show clear intent to invest a defined amount.
also: investment must be "irrevocably committed" before filing. that means you've actually wired the money, signed leases, etc. not just plans. denied applications often come from filing too early.
get an immigration lawyer who specializes in E-2. the application packet is detailed and the consular officers love rejecting borderline cases. cost-effective insurance.