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E‑2 visa help for Canadians

Buying or starting a US business? Get your E‑2 visa right the first time.

We help Canadians plan, prepare and apply for the E‑2 investor visa. VisaPlace Immigration works with licensed and experienced immigration lawyers, and you get a clear quote before any work starts.

Book a consultationOr check if you qualify in 2 minutes
30+ years helping CanadiansEvery case reviewed by an independent licensed lawyerTypically less than a traditional law firm

Does this sound like you?

  • You’ve found a US business or franchise you like, and you need the visa to make it work.
  • You’re ready to invest, but one mistake could cost you the deal or a refusal at the consulate.
  • You’ve read the rules online and still aren’t sure how much you need to invest, or how to prove where your money came from.
  • You want your spouse and children to come with you, and your spouse to be able to work.

What we help with

Everything from your first question to your consulate interview.

Is the E‑2 right for you?

We check your plan against the E‑2 rules, and compare it with the L‑1, EB‑5 and other routes if they fit better.

Your investment

Whether your amount is enough for the type of business, and how to commit the money the right way.

Business plan

A plan that shows the business is real, can grow and will do more than support your family.

Source of funds

Clear proof of where your money came from: a sale, savings, a property or a loan.

Application and interview

A complete, consistent application and practice for your interview at the US consulate.

Your family and the future

Visas for your spouse and children, renewals, and planning a path to a green card.

Is this for you?

A good fit if you are
  • A Canadian citizen (Canada is an E‑2 treaty country)
  • Buying an existing US business or a franchise
  • Starting a new US business
  • Ready to put a substantial amount of your own money into it
We’ll point you elsewhere if
  • You’re a Canadian permanent resident but not a citizen (another citizenship may still qualify)
  • You want to invest passively, like buying property or stocks
  • You already own a Canadian company and want to open a US branch: the L‑1 may fit better

How it works

  1. Free checkAnswer a few questions in our E‑2 Visa Checker.
  2. ConsultationWe review your business, your investment and your goals.
  3. Clear plan and quoteThe steps, the timing and a quote before work starts.
  4. We prepare, you applyA complete application and interview practice.

What it costs

Your E‑2 has three kinds of costs. We’ll go through each one with you in the consultation.

  • Your investment: there’s no fixed minimum. It must be substantial for the type of business. Many cases are $100,000 USD or more, and some are less.
  • Government fees: the US visa application fee, paid when you apply.
  • Our fees: a clear quote before any work starts, typically less than a traditional law firm. See how we compare

Common questions

Do I need professional help to apply for an E‑2?

No, it’s not required. But the E‑2 depends on a business plan, proof of funds and a consulate interview, and a small mistake can lead to a refusal that stays on your record. Many Canadians choose help so they get it right the first time.

How much do I need to invest?

There’s no fixed minimum. The amount must be substantial compared with the cost of the business. Lower-cost businesses can qualify with a smaller investment, so it’s worth checking your plan before ruling yourself out.

How long does it take?

Many applications take a few months from start to finish. Most of the time goes into getting the business and documents ready. Consulate wait times also play a part.

Can my spouse work in the US?

Yes. The spouse of an E‑2 visa holder can work in the US. Your children under 21 can come with you and go to school.

Do you work with business brokers and franchise companies?

Yes. If you’re working with a broker, franchise company or advisor, we can keep them updated with your permission. Professionals can learn more on our partner page.

Ready to talk about your E‑2?

Tell us about your business plans. We’ll give you a clear answer and a clear quote.

Book a consultationOr check if you qualify first

VisaPlace Immigration works with licensed and experienced immigration lawyers, who are independent and operate separately from VisaPlace Immigration. VisaPlace Immigration does not provide legal advice. This page is for information purposes only. For legal advice, consult a licensed immigration lawyer.

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