If you’re considering the E-2 visa, you’ve likely heard that buying a franchise can help you qualify quickly. That’s true. Franchises often offer a proven business model, name recognition, and operational support, which strengthen an E-2 application. U.S. immigration officials look for real, active businesses with structure and growth potential. According to Statista, there were an estimated 831,000 franchise establishments in the United States in 2024. With so many options, choosing the wrong one could cost you time, money, or even your visa. The right franchise can support your approval and long-term success. Choosing it takes more than guesswork.
What the E-2 Visa Requires
To qualify, your franchise must meet a few core standards:
- The investment must be substantial for the type of business
- The business must be active and real, not just on paper
- You must own or control at least 50 percent
- It must support more than just your personal living expenses
These requirements are strict. If a franchise fails on any one of them, the visa may be denied.
Why Some Franchises Don’t Work
Some franchise models are not designed with E-2 compliance in mind:
- Low-cost or home-based options may not meet the investment requirement
- Absentee ownership is not allowed, and some franchises don’t permit hands-on management
- Turnkey deals with unclear financials or limited control raise concerns during review
Even a well-known brand may fall short if it does not align with E-2 standards.
Examples Often Considered by E-2 Applicants
A review of multiple franchise advisory platforms shows that the following brands are frequently explored by E-2 visa investors:
- The UPS Store (retail and logistics)
- Great Clips (haircare services)
- ServiceMaster Clean (commercial cleaning)
- Mathnasium (education and tutoring)
- Tropical Smoothie Café (food and beverage)
These are not endorsements. They represent franchise types that often meet E-2 visa requirements such as substantial investment, direct ownership, and active operation. Each opportunity must still be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Get Help Choosing the Right E-2 Franchise
Choosing the right franchise is not just a business decision. It is a visa decision. Most franchises are not structured to meet E-2 standards, and many that appear suitable on the surface can lead to issues during the application process.
We help investors assess franchise models, confirm E-2 eligibility, and match the right business to your goals and background.
Contact us today for expert guidance in selecting an E-2-qualified franchise that sets you up for approval and long-term success in the United States.