Is the E-2 cheaper than the EB-5?

Generally, yes: the E-2 typically requires a much smaller capital outlay than the EB-5. But comparing only the entry amount does not tell the whole story, because the two visas have fundamentally different natures and obligations.

The E-2 has no fixed minimum investment threshold: the contribution must be substantial and proportional to the business presented, sufficient to put it into operation and make it viable. In practice, this tends to represent a considerably smaller financial commitment than the EB-5 — and it is limited to nationals of countries that have a trade treaty with the United States.

The EB-5 requires a substantially larger contribution and the creation of jobs for workers in the United States, with more rigorous financial documentation. In return, it offers a path to permanent residence, something the E-2, being a temporary visa, does not provide on its own.

• E-2: no fixed minimum, contribution proportional to the business, temporary.
• EB-5: larger contribution, job creation, route to the green card.

In short, the E-2 tends to be lighter on the wallet at entry, but it delivers a different objective. Since the required amounts are reviewed periodically, verify the updated figures at USCIS and assess the real costs of your case with a specialist.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.