Read the general investor planning overview
Funds associated with a Canadian operation need a clear account of ownership, lawful transactions and commitment to the actual U.S. enterprise. A corporate balance should not be treated as automatically interchangeable with personal capital.
Trace the actual contribution
Hypothetical example: an applicant plans a U.S. acquisition using funds connected to a Canadian business. Identify who owns the money and the genuine transactions through which it reaches the investment. E-2 requires substantial lawful capital committed at risk relative to the enterprise, without a universal fixed minimum.
Assess nationality, direction and security
Treaty nationality of applicant and enterprise matters, generally including at least 50% ownership by nationals of the relevant treaty country. Canadian incorporation alone does not establish that ownership nationality. Personal-asset-secured or unsecured loans may qualify; enterprise-asset-secured debt does not qualify as invested capital. Explain actual rights and collateral. Mixing personal collateral with enterprise assets does not make that debt qualifying investment capital.
Use evidence of the relevant U.S. operation
The real operating enterprise must have capacity beyond a minimal living for investor and family or for a significant economic contribution. Continuing Canadian success does not automatically establish the U.S. conditions. A qualifying visa-contingent escrow may matter, but a funding plan or foreign business schedule does not authorize U.S. work. Future capacity should generally be realizable within five years after normal business activity begins.
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: 2026-09-07. General preparation guidance, not an individual assessment.