Official name: E-2 Treaty Investor (non-immigrant classification)
A renewable non-immigrant status for nationals of treaty countries who invest a substantial amount in a real, operating US business they develop and direct. It is not a green card. Pakistani nationals are eligible to apply.
E-2 status lets a treaty-country national enter the US to develop and direct a business in which they have invested, or are actively investing, a substantial amount of capital. There is no fixed minimum; the amount must be proportional to the business and sufficient to ensure its successful operation. The business must not be marginal.
Franchises: a franchise can be the E-2 business only if it meets every E-2 test. Buying a franchise does not by itself qualify for a visa, and franchise fees, royalties and operating costs are separate commercial matters.
A
B
No fixed minimum — the investment must be “substantial” relative to the cost of the business.
Business
No fixed minimum
At least 50% ownership or operational control; capital irrevocably committed and at risk; not a marginal business.
Franchise
No fixed minimum
Immigration side: the franchise must be a real, operating, non-marginal business that you develop and direct with ≥50% ownership or control.
Commercial side (separate): franchise fees, royalties, fit-out and working capital are set by the franchisor and are not reviewed or endorsed here. Bee Haven does not publish franchise offers without verified commercial information.
C
Only listed nationalities
Verified eligible: Pakistan
Only nationals of E-2 treaty countries qualify. Pakistan is listed as an E-2 treaty country (in force since 12 February 1961). For other nationalities, check the State Department's treaty country list.
Spouse and unmarried children under 21 may accompany or follow. Spouses in E-2 status are employment-authorised incident to status.
Children must be unmarried and under 21.
D
Valid passport or travel document
Proves identity and nationality.
Evidence of treaty nationality
Shows you hold the nationality of a treaty country.
Evidence of the investment and ownership/control
Shows the capital is committed and you own at least 50% or control the business.
Business plan and evidence the enterprise is real and operating
Shows the business is bona fide and not marginal.
Franchise agreement
If the business is a franchise.
Translation, certification, legalisation or apostille may be required. The responsible authority can always request additional evidence.
E
Commit capital to a real, operating business you will develop and direct.
Visa at a US consulate, or change/extension of status with USCIS if in the US.
Extensions in two-year increments while requirements are met.
Processing time: Not verified
F
Last verified 6 October 2026
USCIS · checked 6 Oct 2026
U.S. Department of State · checked 6 Oct 2026
General guidance only
Program rules, eligibility, investment thresholds and immigration requirements may change. Information is for general guidance and does not constitute legal, immigration, tax or investment advice.United States
Conditional US permanent residence (green card) for investors who put US$1,050,000 — or US$800,000 in a targeted employment area or infrastructure project — at risk in a US business that creates 10 full-time jobs.
United Kingdom
A UK visa for founders of a new, innovative, viable and scalable business endorsed by an approved endorsing body. There is no fixed minimum investment.
