Canadian citizens can use the E-2 visa to run a U.S. business they invest in, because Canada is on the State Department treaty list (U.S. Department of State, Oct 2026). You must invest a substantial amount at risk, own at least half of the business or control it, and plan to leave when your status ends (USCIS, Aug 2026).
This guide shows the three ways Canadians build an E-2 business and what each one asks of you.
What is the E-2 visa for a Canadian?
The E-2 is a temporary visa for treaty-country investors. It is not a green card. Your first stay can last up to two years, and you can extend in steps of up to two years with no limit on extensions (USCIS, Aug 2026).
What are the three business paths?
- Transfer a Canadian business: you set up a U.S. branch or company, and you must show it is real and active in the U.S.
- Buy a franchise: the costs and the model are written down, and you still need to meet the full E-2 test. See the E-2 franchise visa page.
- Start or buy an independent business: you have full control, and your plan carries more of the proof. Compare the options in our franchise vs startup guide.
What do you need to qualify?
- Citizenship: you must hold Canadian citizenship.
- Ownership: at least 50 percent of the business, or operational control.
- Investment: a substantial amount compared with the cost of the business.
- At risk: your capital can be partly or fully lost if the business fails.
- Real and active: the business is operating, and not marginal.
- Lawful funds: your money does not come from criminal activity.
A new business can still qualify if it can reach enough income within five years (USCIS, Aug 2026). The investment amount guide shows how to test your budget.
How do Canadians apply?
First-time applicants apply through the U.S. Consulate General in Toronto, and the package is emailed in before any appointment is booked (U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Canada). Our guide to the Toronto consulate process lists the steps.
Can the E-2 lead to a green card?
Not directly. The E-2 requires you to plan to leave, so a green card needs a separate route. Canadians often look at the EB-2 NIW, the EB-1A or the EB-5. Read about the EB-2 NIW for Canadians and the EB-1A.
What other visas should Canadians consider?
The L-1 moves an executive, manager or specialist from a related company abroad. Canadians do not need a visa stamp for it. Read about the L-1 visa for Canadians. The page for Canadians moving to the U.S. compares every route.
Compare your options
Weighing a U.S. business against a Canadian one? See E-2 vs C11.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need for an E-2 visa?
There is no fixed amount. The investment must be substantial compared with the total cost of the business and at risk (USCIS, Aug 2026).
Can my spouse work in the U.S. with an E-2 visa?
Yes. Spouses in valid E-2 status are authorized to work incident to status (USCIS, Aug 2026).
What happens to my Canadian business if I get an E-2 visa?
It can continue, but the E-2 needs a real, active U.S. business that you own at least half of or control. Ask your attorney how to structure both companies.
Can Canadians use the E-2?
Yes. Canada is on the State Department treaty list, and Canadian citizens can apply when they meet the investment and business tests (U.S. Department of State, Oct 2026).
Does the E-2 lead to permanent residence?
Not by itself. It is a temporary status, so a green card needs a separate route such as the EB-2 NIW, the EB-1A or the EB-5.
Where to go from here
Test your fit first. Take the E-2 eligibility check, or use the U.S. route finder to compare routes.
Last updated: 15 October 2026.
Amir Ismail leads Amir Ismail & Associates, which has guided clients since 1991 and works with independent U.S. immigration attorneys. AIA is not a law firm. Legal advice and filings are handled by the attorney.
