Read the general investor planning overview
A Dieppe investor considering US online retail should be able to explain the business without relying on the appearance of its website. The evidence must identify real arrangements, qualifying capital and the investor’s directing role.
Document the commercial chain
Connect suppliers, inventory, customer orders, fulfillment and payment records. Identify which functions the investor directs and which providers perform. Test the accuracy of sales claims rather than presenting demonstration data as completed trade.
Apply the investment and nationality rules
Relevant treaty-country nationals must own at least 50% of the enterprise, and the applicant must develop and direct it. Substantial capital must be genuinely at risk with a lawful source and path. There is no universal E-2 minimum dollar figure that can replace the actual analysis.
Support economic capacity
The nonmarginality framework concerns more than minimal living for the investor and family or significant economic contribution under the applicable rules. Explain expenses, returns and credible demand. Outsourcing fulfillment does not create a special exemption, and the EB-5 ten-job requirement should not be imported into E-2.
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.