💡 Quick Snapshot of E-2 Investor Visa Costs and Fees
Category
Typical Range (USD)
Ownership / Notes
Government & Filing Fees
$315 – several thousand
Non-refundable; varies by country
Legal & Professional Fees
$8,000 – $15,000
Attorney, business plan, admin costs
Business Formation / Compliance
Variable by state ($100+)
Includes licenses, IP, permits
Recoverable Business Investment
$80,000–$300,000+
Investor retains full ownership *
The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa allows nationals of treaty countries to live and work in the United States by investing in a qualifying U.S. business. While some expenses are fixed (government and legal fees), the main financial component — the investment — remains your own capital.
To learn more about eligibility, qualifying investments and treaty countries, visit our main E-2 Visa page
This guide focuses on the financial aspects of the E-2 visa and cites the controlling authorities: 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(e) | 9 FAM (Foreign Affairs Manual) | 9 FAM 402.9
Government & Filing Fees for the E-2 Visa (2025)
E-2 investors pay several government filing fees. Some are set by the U.S. Department of State for consular processing, while others apply only if you file a change of status inside the United States with USCIS.
The current MRV fee for an E treaty visa application filed through a U.S. embassy or consulate is $315.
USCIS filing fees for E related filings inside the United States depend on the exact form and filing path used. The fees range from $ 510 to $1,015 or more and can be estimated using our fee calculator.
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E-2 Cost Calculator: click the arrow to estimate your government, legal and investment outlay.
Your E-2 Inputs
E-2 Visa Cost Breakdown
Estimated Total Outlay
—
USD estimate of non-recoverable fees plus recoverable investment capital
Fee Type
Amount (2026)
Description
Form DS-160 (MRV) Fee
$315
Required before scheduling the consular interview.
Covers Form I-129 or I-539 (if filing inside the U.S.). Confirm latest amounts on the
USCIS Fee Schedule.
E-2 visas are only issued in U.S. embassies and consulates outside the United States. Applicants inside the United States may be able to "Change Status" to E-2 status or "Extend" E status, meaning their authorized period of stay, through USCIS. Changing or extending status is not the same as applying for a visa and will not result in the issuance of an E-2 visa.
Professional fees cover attorney preparation, evidence gathering and business-plan development. Because E-2 cases are document-intensive, using a lawyer familiar with consular practice is strongly advised.
Service
Typical Range (USD)
Purpose
Immigration Attorney
$6,000 – $12,000
Legal strategy, petition drafting and interview preparation.
Certified Business Plan
$1,500 – $5,000 *
Investor-grade plan required for E-2; upper range applies to plans prepared for future EB-5 conversion.
Translations & Certification
$200 – $800
Certified translations, notarizations and apostilles.
Administrative / Banking
$200 – $500
Courier charges, bank letters and document handling.
*A detailed business plan is strongly recommended because it helps demonstrate that the enterprise is bona fide, not marginal, and capable of operating as described. See 9 FAM 402.9-6(E).
Company Formation, Licensing & Compliance Costs
In addition to immigration filings, every E-2 investor must form or acquire a U.S. business. That process involves state and local fees and, in many industries, additional permits or registrations.
A physical office is not necessarily required.
The key requirement is that the enterprise be real, active, and operating. See
9 FAM 402.9-6(B).
Category
Typical Range (USD)
Examples / Notes
Entity Registration
$100–$1,000+
State LLC or corporation filing; some states add annual franchise taxes.
Licenses & Permits
$0–hundreds of thousands+
Small consulting firms pay minimal fees; restaurants and regulated industries incur higher costs.
Zoning / Occupancy
$50–$2,000+
City or county authorization to operate premises.
Health & Environmental
$100–$50,000+
Required for food, hospitality and industrial operations.
Patent & IP Costs
$500–$20,000+
Registration fees and legal expenses. These may qualify as part of the E-2 investment when properly documented and directly related to the enterprise. See 9 FAM 402.9-6(C).
Ongoing Compliance
$100 – $800 per year
Annual reports, franchise tax payments and registered-agent renewals.
The E-2 Investment Requirement — Not a Cost
E-2 investment can include more than cash.
Depending on the structure of the business and the evidence provided, the investment may also include the value of qualifying inventory, equipment, or other assets transferred to the U.S. business. See
9 FAM 402.9-6(C).
E-2 Visa Fees & Costs 2026 | Davies & Associates →
Under 9 FAM 402.9-6(B) and 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(e)(12), an investor must have made, or be actively making, a substantial investment in a bona fide enterprise. There is no fixed minimum, but the amount must be sufficient to demonstrate commitment and business viability.
Business Type
Typical Investment (USD)
Service / Consulting
$80,000 – $150,000
Restaurant / Retail
$150,000 – $300,000
Manufacturing / Technology
$200,000–$500,000+
Important Tip: The investment does not have to be entirely cash. Both 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(e)(12) and 9 FAM 402.9-6(B)(d) confirm that equipment, inventory, intellectual property, or other tangible assets can count toward the investment if their fair-market value is documented. In practice, the cash portion can be as low as $30,000 when balanced by asset value.
E-2 Visa Budget Planning: Total Expected Costs
Category
Typical Range (USD)
Nature / Ownership
Immigration Fees
$315 – several thousand
Government charges (non-refundable)
Legal & Professional Services
$6,000 – $20,000+*
Professional expenses
Immigration Attorney
$6,000 – $20,000+*
Professional expenses
Business Formation & Compliance
Variable by state/industry
Operating expenses (usually qualify as investment)
Recoverable Business Investment
$80,000–$300,000+
Investor retains full ownership *
Fees depend on a number of factors, including whether the firm will staff the matter with a paralegal, the complexity of the case, whether the client wants unlimited access to a lawyer, the experience and success rate of the firm, the training, qualifications, and experience of the lawyers, with highly qualified lawyers generally commanding higher salaries reflected in higher fees, and whether the matter is billed on a fixed fee or hourly basis.
* The E-2 investment does not have to be cash. It may include inventory, equipment, or other assets of documented fair-market value that are irrevocably committed to the enterprise.
Don’t Risk Any Capital: The Use of Escrow Accounts
A properly structured escrow arrangement can help satisfy the at risk requirement where funds are committed and released upon approval, provided it meets E-2 standards. See 9 FAM 402.9-6(C).
In both new-business setups and acquisitions of existing enterprises, E-2 investors can protect their funds by placing them in a secure escrow account pending visa approval. This structure satisfies the “funds at risk” standard under 9 FAM 402.9-6(B)(d) because the capital is irrevocably committed yet released only upon visa issuance. If the visa is denied, the funds are automatically returned to the investor, avoiding premature expenditure while still meeting eligibility under 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(e)(12).
Over a decade ago, Davies & Associates pioneered the use of escrow accounts for E-2 new-business setups, developing structures that hold funds securely and disburse them as qualifying expenses arise. This approach is now a recognized best practice balancing compliance, investor protection and cost efficiency.
Practical Considerations When Budgeting and Structuring Your E-2 Investment
After estimating your total investment, consider how and when to deploy funds to balance compliance, liquidity, and risk management.
Timing of Expenditures: Funds need not be fully spent before filing but must be irrevocably committed and ready for use upon approval.
Liquidity Planning: Ensure adequate working capital after approval.
Supporting Documentation: Maintain invoices, transfers and valuations to prove funds are “at risk.”
Dependents and Staffing: Dependents require no extra investment; budget for U.S. payroll if hiring.
Renewals and Growth: E-2 status is renewable indefinitely while the business remains active and non-marginal (9 FAM 402.9-9).
Managing and Reducing Costs
Prepare a comprehensive business plan consistent with E-2 and potential EB-5 criteria.
Form your U.S. entity and open bank accounts before major transfers.
Keep detailed source-of-funds and expenditure records.
Engage experienced E-2 counsel familiar with your consulate’s procedures.
Key Takeaways for 2026
Expect non recoverable fees to vary depending on government fees, legal fees, and professional costs, but in most entrepreneurial and small business cases will typically fall within the range of $12,000 to $17,000.
Plan $100,000+ in recoverable capital.
Equipment and IP count toward investment.
Escrow accounts protect funds before approval.
The E-2 visa remains one of the fastest, most flexible routes for entrepreneurs.
Obtaining an E-2 Visa Through Citizenship-by-Investment
Not all nationalities have E-2 treaties with the United States. Investors from non-treaty countries may first acquire citizenship in a treaty country through a recognized Citizenship-by-Investment (CBI) program. Historically, Grenadian and Turkish citizenships have been popular because both nations maintain E-2 treaties with the U.S. After obtaining citizenship through CBI, an investor can apply for the E-2 as a national of that treaty country.
Davies & Associates’ Singapore office is one of the very few international law firms formally listed by the Government of Grenada as a Licensed Marketing Agent for the Grenada Citizenship-by-Investment Program.
The firm appears under the name Global Citizenship Services Pte Ltd on the Government of Grenada’s official website: Government of Grenada – List of Licensed International Marketing Agents (link temporarily removed pending URL verification)
Among all approved agents worldwide, Davies & Associates is the only U.S. law firm recognized by the Government of Grenada as a licensed international marketing agent. This distinction reflects the firm’s unique position as a global leader in integrating Citizenship-by-Investment and E-2 visa planning. Our dual capability allows clients to complete both the Grenadian CBI process and the subsequent E-2 visa application, providing a seamless, end-to-end solution that very few firms worldwide can offer.
Important Note on Recent U.S. Legislative Changes
Following the enactment of the “Amigos Act” (Public Law 117-103, Division BB, Title V – Visa Provisions, Section 5902, enacted March 15, 2022), the pathway between citizenship-by-investment programs and E-2 visa eligibility has become more nuanced.
Individuals who acquire a treaty-country citizenship after June 25, 2022 through investment must hold that citizenship for at least three years before applying for an E-2 visa. Because individual circumstances and timelines vary, this issue requires personalized legal assessment. The position is complex and beyond the scope of this webpage. Please contact our Singapore office to discuss your situation and determine the most suitable strategy.
Disclaimer
This page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Actual fees and requirements depend on nationality, industry, and current regulations. Always verify current figures on the USCIS Fee Schedule and your E-2 Reciprocity Fee Table, and consult a qualified immigration attorney before applying.
E-2 Visa Cost FAQs (2026 Update)
How much does an E-2 visa cost in total?
Most investors spend around $10,000–$15,000 in non-recoverable fees (government and legal) and $100,000+ in recoverable business investment. The exact figure depends on your industry, state, and consulate. The investment portion is not a sunk cost — it becomes the capital of your U.S. enterprise.
What is the minimum investment required for an E-2 Visa?
No fixed minimum exists under 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(e)(12) or 9 FAM 402.9-6(B). The amount must be substantial in relation to the business type. Service businesses may qualify from $80,000, while capital-intensive ventures often exceed $200,000–$300,000.
Are legal fees included in the total cost of an E-2 Visa?
No. Attorney and professional fees are administrative expenses, not part of the qualifying investment. Only funds irrevocably committed to the enterprise — such as equipment, leases, and working capital — count toward the E-2 investment amount.
Do E-2 Visa applicants need to show business operating costs?
Yes. The rules expressly allow tangible assets, inventory, and intellectual property to form part of the investment if their fair-market value is documented and the assets are committed to the business.
Are E-2 visa fees refundable if my application is denied?
Government filing fees (MRV, reciprocity, USCIS) are non-refundable. However, if your investment funds are held in a properly structured escrow account, they are returned to you automatically if the visa is refused — protecting capital while maintaining eligibility.
How much are attorney fees for an E-2 visa?
Experienced immigration counsel typically charge $6,000–$12,000, depending on complexity, source-of-funds documentation, and consular location. Additional business-plan services average $1,500–$5,000.
Are there extra costs for dependents?
No. Spouses and children apply as E-2 dependents without additional investment requirements. Each pays only the applicable visa filing and reciprocity fees.
How can I reduce overall E-2 visa costs?
Form your U.S. entity early, keep detailed source-of-funds and expenditure records, and use counsel familiar with your consulate's practice. A well-structured plan often avoids costly re-filings and delays.
Can I use a loan for my E-2 investment?
Only loans secured by your personal assets may qualify. Borrowed funds secured by the U.S. business itself do not meet the "at-risk" requirement.
How long is the E-2 visa valid and what are renewal costs?
Validity ranges from three months to five years depending on nationality. Renewal involves updated evidence of business activity, payment of the standard consular fee again, and minimal legal expenses compared with the initial filing.
About the Authors
Mark I Davies, Esq.
Chairman of Davies & Associates; focused on E visa strategy and complex consular filings.
Mark I Davies, Esq. JD, University of Pennsylvania Law School, Licensed with the SRA (SRA ID: 384468) in the UK, Member Law Society of England & Wales, MBA, Wharton School of Business. Top 10 Investment Visa Lawyer, Licensed (USA), Georgia State Bar.AILA Member.
Area
Details
Education
JD, University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School | MBA (Finance), The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania | Chartered Accountant (ICAEW)
Financial Training
Completed Analyst Training Program at a major international bank | Chartered Accountant background with professional training in financial analysis and reporting
Legal Practice
Admitted to practice in Georgia (USA) | Registered Solicitor with the Law Society of England & Wales | Former CMBS lawyer at one of the world's largest international law firms
Immigration Track Record
15+ years advising HNW investors | Zero denials for clients advised on source-of-funds compliance in EB-5 | Hundreds of successful EB-5 cases globally
Recognition
Named a Top 25 EB-5 Immigration Attorney by EB5 Investors Magazine (2018–2023)
Professional Engagements
Lecturer/trainer for other lawyers at AILA, ACA, University of Pennsylvania Law School | Frequent speaker at global investment immigration conferences
E2 Visa Solutions by Country of Nationality or Residency
We are known for our creative solutions that obtain "impossible" visas. We solve the most complex immigration problems for businesses, investors, individuals, and families.
Several lawyers told me I would not be able to get a TN visa. Two weeks after contacting Davies & Associates I was working in New York, visa in hand.
Individual seeking 'Impossible' TN Visa
D&A was very detail-oriented and very thorough in what they did. They worked on my case 24/7 and were very patient in answering all my questions.
E-2 Visa Client
My case felt complex but D&A managed the whole process carefully and helped me move seamlessly from one stage to the next.
E2 + CBI Client
D&A was my guiding light through the entire EB-5 process.
EB-5 Visa Client
I would definitely be a big advocate for the rest of my life for anyone wanting to explore the Grenada Citizenship by Investment Programme leading to the E-2 visa. The most important thing is a good team behind you. With Davies & Associates, you're in safe hands... you need someone who can support you on the ground and, again, you are well taken care of by D&A. The people are really warm, very helpful and quite open-minded when it comes to business... Not to mention as a passport it's great from a travel perspective... It's just 4 to 5 hours from New York.
Grenada CBI + E2 Visa Client
The entire process of getting an EB-5 visa is handled in a professional way by Mark Davies and his team. EB-5 is a wonderful option for anyone considering moving to the United States if you have the means. I was hoping to use the H-1B route for my children, but it became unreliable and so I looked to the EB-5 visa instead. It is great for anyone who has the resources. Mark gives you the first meetings himself which gives you great comfort. Both Mark and Sanjay are abundantly available and I even had the pleasure of hosting them at my house.
Parent of 2 EB-5 visa holders
I'm in the process of extending my L-1 visa. I submitted a few questions regarding my case, and he contacted me back almost immediately, both by email and telephone. Unlike other attorneys I met before, he gave me the impression of knowing off the top of his head what kind of visa I have, and what actions had to be taken to extend it. He is very thorough and clear regarding the process and what to expect in terms of timelines and issues that may arise. He is constantly in contact, so you definitely know he's working on your case.
L-1B Visa Holder
Mark Davies is a joy to work with. His extensive knowledge, speedy response and attentive service took away all my fears of dealing with immigration and visa applications. He is very generous with his time in explaining every step along the way and I have already and will in the future recommend him to anybody who is looking for an immigration lawyer.
E2 Visa for Small Professional Business With International Offices
Davies & Associates assisted us with an immigration emergency involving my brother's fiancée who was outside the United States. They assisted us in a highly professional manner, working with the relevant US embassy, US immigration and the governments of two other countries. As a result of their efforts the individual involved is now working in the United States. While their knowledge of the law is exemplary what really distinguishes this firm and attorney Davies from any other firm we have worked with is their dedication to customer service and their unrivaled level of professionalism.
Complex Fiancée Visa Need Involving Multiple International Jurisdictions
Several lawyers told me I would not be able to get a TN visa. Two weeks after contacting Davies & Associates I was working in New York, visa in hand. I have recommended this firm to several friends and colleagues, they do an excellent job every time.
Individual Seeking 'Impossible' TN Visa
I was qualified as a physician in a foreign country. Being on a J1 visa I was facing having to leave the United States and return to my home country. Davies & Associates secured one of only 30 J1 visa waivers available in my State, allowing me to work for a US hospital and remain in the United States.
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I am very satisfied with the services Mark Davies has provided me. He has a very extensive knowledge in immigration laws and has a thorough approach to any case.
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