E-2 Visa for Canadian Investors
What is the E2 Visa for Canadian Citizens?
An E-2 Treaty Investor Visa allows Canadian nationals to live and work in the United States by investing in a business or commercial enterprise. Unlike the EB-5 visa, there is no specific minimum investment for E-2 visa petitions. This makes it a flexible and strategic option for Canadians who want to start or manage a business in the U.S. Canadian E-2 visa holders can also bring their spouse and unmarried children under 21. The visa can be renewed an unlimited number of times, as long as the business remains active and meets all requirements.
At Colombo & Hurd, our experienced E-2 visa lawyers have helped many Canadian investors obtain visas through the U.S. Consulate in Toronto or by changing their status in the U.S.
Who Can Apply for the E-2 Visa from Canada?
The E-2 visa is available to nationals of treaty countries that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. Canada qualifies as an E-2 treaty country, making Canadian citizens eligible for this visa category. This visa is open to:
- Canadian-born citizens
- Naturalized Canadian citizens
- Dual nationals holding a Canadian passport
Even if you are born in a non-treaty country, you may qualify if you hold Canadian nationality.
E2 Visa Requirements for Canadian Citizens
Understanding the E-2 visa requirements is a key part of successfully navigating U.S. immigration for Canadian business owners. In addition to holding Canadian nationality, applicants must meet criteria involving a qualifying business investment, the type of enterprise, and active ownership or control of the business.
Learn more about the specific requirements for an E-2 investment visa by visiting our E-2 Investment Requirements Overview page.
This E-2 offers Canadian investors considerable flexibility, allowing for long-term operations and residency in the U.S. without requiring additional filings.
How to Apply for the E-2 Visa in Toronto
All first-time Canadian E-2 visa investors must submit their application to the U.S. Consulate in Toronto, which handles all new E2 visa applications and renewals. Eligible dependents and qualifying employees may also apply at the U.S. consulates in Calgary, Montreal, Ottawa, or Vancouver.
Steps for E2 Visa Application Process Canada
- Complete the DS-160 form online and upload a visa photo.
- Submit a consolidated PDF (max 70 pages, 20MB) including:
- Cover letter detailing how you meet each E-2 visa requirement
- Proof of Canadian nationality
- Business ownership documents
- Financial documentation showing real and non-marginal enterprise.
- Bring additional supporting documents to your visa interview, including evidence of:
- Fund commitment and risk
- Business plan and job creation
- Real operations and profitability projections
The Toronto consulate generally schedules E-2 visa interviews within a few months after you apply. Approved visas are typically returned within a few business days by Canadian Post Couriers.
What are the main benefits of the E-2 visa for Canadian entrepreneurs?
The E-2 visa offers several advantages for Canadian entrepreneurs who want to start or expand a business in the United States:
- Access to the U.S. market: Enter and operate within one of the largest consumer markets in the world.
- Revenue growth opportunities: Scale your business and increase profits by serving U.S.-based customers.
- Professional networking: Connect with U.S. business partners, investors, and clients to explore new opportunities.
How long can Canadian citizens stay in the U.S. on an E-2 visa?
Canadian E-2 visa holders are typically granted a five-year multiple-entry visa. Upon each entry to the U.S., they receive a two-year period of stay. This two-year stay can be renewed indefinitely by exiting and re-entering the country, as long as the business remains active and the visa is valid.
Does the E-2 visa lead to a U.S. Green Card for Canadians?
The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa and does not directly lead to permanent residency (Green Card). However, Canadian E-2 visa holders may explore other immigration options, such as:
- EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW): For individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities in science, business, or the arts
- Employment-based sponsorship (EB-2 or EB-3): Through a job offer from a U.S. employer, either for the investor or their spouse.
- EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program: By making a qualifying investment in a U.S. business or regional center project to obtain a Green Card.
These pathways must be pursued without violating the conditions of the E-2 visa status.
Work with an Experienced E-2 Visa Attorney Specializing in E2 Visas for Canadians
E-2 visa applications can be complex, and errors or incomplete submissions can result in costly delays or denials. The E-2 visa attorneys at Colombo & Hurd specialize in helping Canadian investors navigate the process and build complete applications.
From customized business plans to legal guidance through consular interviews, we are committed to helping our clients succeed. Complete our E-2 Visa Questionnaire to see if you qualify and begin your U.S. investment journey.
Case Highlights: How Canadian Investors Have Successfully Secured E-2 Visas
Canadian business owners are finding great opportunities in the United States with the E-2 treaty investor visa. The below case examples highlight some of our many successful Canadian clients who got their E-2 visas approved. Whether they applied through the U.S. Consulate in Toronto or filed for a status change from inside the U.S., these examples show how we’ve helped Canadian entrepreneurs start their U.S. businesses with smart investments and solid visa applications.
Medical Transport Business from Toronto
A Canadian investor received E-2 visa approval through the U.S. Consulate in Toronto to launch a medical transport company. Due to the time-sensitive nature of his business and his essential role in managing it, an expediated interview was granted, and the E-2 visa was approved promptly.
The client has now entered the U.S. to operate his medical transport business. We congratulate him on his successful visa approval and business expansion into the U.S. market!
Optometry Business Launch
A dual Canadian-Chinese citizen and licensed optometrist secured a change of status to E-2 to launch an optometry practice in Austin, Texas. The business combines eye care with a curated retail experience and serves diverse local communities, especially within Austin’s Asian population. The practice draws patients from neighborhoods including Brentwood, Crestview, Domain, Allandale, and Shoal Creek.
Men’s Grooming Brand Expansion
Two Canadian entrepreneurs obtained E-2 visas approvals through the U.S. Consulate in Toronto to expand their men’s personal care company to the United States. The majority owner received E-2 visa approval as a treaty investor, while the minority owner was approved as an E-2 essential employee due to her extensive and specialized knowledge of the company’s products and operations. Congratulations to our clients on their E-2 visa approvals and business expansion into the U.S. market!
