If you are applying for the E-2 investor visa, one of the first questions you may ask is how much you need to invest. U.S. immigration law does not set a specific dollar minimum. Instead, your investment must be considered substantial. A substantial investment is one that is proportional to the total cost of purchasing or starting the business.
For lower-cost businesses, a higher percentage of the total cost is expected. For larger businesses, a smaller percentage may still qualify if it reflects a real financial commitment. U.S. officials use a proportionality test to decide if the amount is sufficient. The funds must be at risk and already committed. This means the money must be spent or legally obligated to the business through contracts, purchases, or other financial steps. Funds sitting in a personal bank account or only promised in the future do not count.
In addition, the business must be real, active, and not marginal. It must have the present or future capacity to generate more than enough income to support you and your family. Passive investments and shell companies do not qualify. There is no exact figure required for the E-2 visa. What matters is that the investment is active, committed, and tied to a viable business with real operations and growth potential.