Service-based business models remain attractive to E-2 visa applicants due to their lower startup costs and faster operational timelines. This guide highlights five additional business types, each typically under $100,000 in initial investment, that meet E-2 visa standards and address proven demand within the U.S. market.
1. Digital marketing agency
A digital marketing firm can qualify for an E-2 visa if it provides real services such as search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, or social media management. Startup costs between $40,000 and $90,000 typically cover branding, business registration, office setup or remote tools, software, and early hires. The investor must actively manage operations and show plans to hire U.S. staff such as designers or account managers.
2. Senior home care (non-medical)
Non-medical home care businesses help elderly clients with daily activities like meal prep and mobility without offering medical services. With $75,000–$100,000, investors can cover caregiver recruitment, licensing, insurance, scheduling tools, and administrative setup. This model aligns well with E-2 criteria by creating jobs and requiring the investor’s direct oversight.
3. Language or test prep center
Offering ESL (English as a Second Language), TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test), or similar instruction, this model typically costs $60,000 to $90,000 to launch. Expenses include a leased space, licensed teachers, learning materials, and promotional outreach. It is E-2 compatible when structured to employ instructors and deliver consistent classes under the investor’s active management.
4. Auto detailing or mobile car wash
This service business serves residential and commercial clients with cleaning and detailing services. A budget of $40,000–$80,000 covers a branded vehicle, cleaning equipment, supplies, permits, and staff wages. The owner must be involved in operations and plan for growth, making this a practical E-2 business path.
5. Specialty fitness studio (niche or mobile)
This model focuses on targeted fitness services such as women’s fitness, senior mobility, or high-intensity interval training. A $60,000–$95,000 investment can support equipment, space rental, instructor pay, insurance, and marketing. Whether based in a studio or operated as a mobile service, it qualifies when the investor leads the business and hires staff over time.
Source Disclosure
Startup cost estimates are based on U.S. Small Business Administration data, franchise disclosure documents (FDDs), and verified business sale listings. All examples are illustrative and must be adjusted for legal, financial, and immigration-specific review before filing an E-2 application