Proving a clean money trail is one of the most important steps in an E-2 visa case. Officers look for detailed proof that the investment money came from a legal and traceable source. A well-documented financial story can help present your case more clearly and may help reduce delays. In fact, as of 2023, the global approval rate for E-2 visas was about 90.7% — showing that well-prepared applications with clear documentation significantly improve approval chances.
At Aga Asbury Immigration Law, we help clients organize every record and explain their funds clearly, whether they come from income, property sales, or family gifts.
The Papers You Need for E-2 Visa Source of Funds
To satisfy the investment requirements for the E-2, the investor must present proof that their capital was lawfully earned. The applicant must connect every deposit, transfer, or sale to its origin. This can include income from business profits, inheritance, real estate sales, or savings secured by personal assets. Gifted money can also qualify when supported by notarized letters and lawful records of the funds transfer.
Use the following types of evidence when showing the funds:
- Bank statements verifying lawful transactions and balances.
- Tax returns showing income that was obtained legally.
- Sale contracts that connect assets sold to the investment funds.
- Gift or loan documents showing that the funds come from legitimate, traceable sources.
- Proof of personal assets like property deeds or savings certificates.
All documents must demonstrate a lawful source of funds and comply with E-2 visa requirements. A clear explanation of your E-2 visa source of funds helps show how your investment was obtained and transferred. For cases processed at U.S. consulates or embassies, consular officers review this documentation to confirm that the funds were lawfully sourced and properly traced.
For applicants filing a change of status inside the United States, USCIS reviews these same records to determine whether the investment meets E-2 criteria. Organizing a verified E-2 visa source of funds can make it easier for officers—whether at a U.S. consulate abroad or USCIS for a change-of-status filing—to follow your financial story and assess whether each part of the investment meets immigration requirements.
With proper guidance, your E-2 visa source of funds documentation can strengthen both your application and your interview preparation for final review. The business must also show that the amount of capital invested is sufficient to operate. Officers reviewing the file under the treaty of commerce and navigation must see that you have invested a substantial amount consistent with your industry.
Picking a Safe E2 Visa Investment Amount
Choosing the right E2 visa investment amount can be complex, as there’s no set minimum under U.S. law. However, the investor must show a substantial investment that supports operations and job creation. The table below outlines general guidance for evaluating your minimum investment amount depending on your business type:
| Business Type | Estimated E2 Visa Investment Amount | Key Details |
| Consulting or Service Company | $80,000–$150,000 | Reflects a substantial amount for operations and marketing. |
| Retail or Franchise | $100,000–$200,000 | Include all setup costs, staffing, and rent. |
| Tech Startup or Manufacturing | $150,000–$350,000 | Demonstrates a significant investment in technology and labor. |
| Real Estate or Construction | $200,000+ | Shows a higher investment tied to tangible assets. |
The E-2 investment must be at risk and committed before filing. A carefully chosen E2 visa investment amount reflects financial commitment and helps demonstrate that your business is ready to operate. This E2 visa investment amount should align with your business plan and industry standards to meet officer expectations.
In many cases, a well-documented E2 visa investment amount helps demonstrate how the funds support operations and align with visa requirements. The applicant must also invest in a U.S. business that contributes to local employment and economic growth. When reviewing an E-2 application, officers evaluate whether the amount of capital demonstrates a substantial investment based on the applicant’s treaty country and the nature of the industry.
How E2 Immigration Visa Reviews Usually Go
The E2 immigration visa review process focuses on proving that your funds come from a lawful source, that your business qualifies under a treaty of commerce and navigation, and that you meet E-2 status criteria. Below is how the E-2 visa process typically unfolds:
- Initial Evaluation. A U.S. consulate reviews an E-2 visa application filed abroad. USCIS reviews E-2 change-of-status petitions filed within the U.S.
- Evidence Request. If more evidence is needed, USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) for change-of-status filings, while consular officers may issue a 221(g) request or administrative processing notice.
- Interview Stage. The applicant must show documentation showing the funds were obtained legally and that the investment in the U.S. is already active.
- Decision. Approval or clarification depends on whether your business meets investment requirements for the E-2 and the treaty rules.
Each step in the application process requires attention to detail. E-2 applicants who organize documents early and respond promptly with accurate data usually move forward more smoothly. Officers from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services focus on whether the investor must prove the legitimate source of all money used.
Real-World E2 Visa Experiences
Additional examples of how the E2 immigration visa process works can be found in real-world investor experiences. Many E2 immigration visa cases succeed when applicants provide a transparent paper trail. Officers often note that a well-prepared E2 immigration visa package simplifies their review and minimizes questions. Working closely with legal counsel also helps ensure that your E2 immigration visa documentation meets all treaty requirements.
Getting Help from Portland Immigration Attorneys
Working with trusted Portland immigration attorneys can make an E-2 investor filing significantly stronger. These professionals can review your application, organize investment documents, and verify eligibility under the treaty countries list. Their guidance helps applicants avoid common issues such as incomplete financial records, unclear source-of-funds explanations, or missing business evidence.
Portland immigration attorneys often support investors across various industries and investment levels, offering legal strategy, document preparation, and guidance on ongoing visa compliance. Whether an applicant is already in the United States or filing from abroad, attorneys can clarify each step of the process and help assess whether the business appears to meet the core E-2 criteria—such as committing a substantial investment, demonstrating a lawful source of funds, and keeping the enterprise active and operating.
With the help of experienced Portland immigration attorneys, an investor can strengthen their case, meet required evidentiary standards, and submit a well-prepared E-2 application aligned with U.S. immigration regulations. Trusted Portland immigration attorneys also help applicants stay updated on procedural changes, documentation expectations, and renewal requirements.
Ready to Start Your E-2 Visa Case the Right Way?
We understand that proving your E-2 visa source of funds can feel overwhelming. At Aga Asbury Immigration Law, our Portland immigration attorneys walk you through the E-2 process, review your investment documentation, and ensure your evidence meets the treaty standards of commerce and navigation with the United States.
With our experienced team, you’ll know how to meet the required investment amount, document every funds transfer, and remain compliant with U.S. immigration regulations. Let our attorneys guide you so you can invest confidently and move through the E-2 visa process with clarity.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and work with professionals who help E-2 applicants meet every requirement and move forward with clarity about your next steps.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this blog does not create an attorney–client relationship with Aga Asbury Immigration Law or Aga Asbury. Every immigration case is unique, and you should consult directly with a qualified immigration attorney regarding your specific circumstances before making decisions.