Are you thinking of moving to the United States to start or buy an E2 visa business with a substantial investment that offers more than enough income, avoids being labeled a marginal enterprise, and makes a significant economic contribution? You may want to consider applying for an E-2 visa, and the best way to get approved is through franchising.
The E-2 Visa is a popular nonimmigrant visa among foreign entrepreneurs and investors since this requires no sponsorship from US citizens or businesses. This type of visa gives you control over your business’s operations and livelihood in the United States.
If you are an E2 visa holder looking to establish a business, going for a franchise can be a wise choice. Franchise businesses come with proven business models, operational strategies, and brand recognition, making them a favorable option in the eyes of immigration officials.
Compared to startups or independent ventures, franchises have a lower possibility of failure, making them a more reliable choice for E2 visa holders.
So, if you are unsure of what type of business to invest your money in, we’ve got the perfect list of 20 E2 visa business ideas that qualify.
What is an E2 Visa?
The E-2 Visa lets citizens of treaty countries live and work in the U.S. by making a significant investment in a new business or established enterprise. There’s no set minimum investment amount, but your investment capital must prove the business has present or future capacity to succeed—and earn more than just a minimal living.
It’s not just about money—you need to hold a managerial position and have operational control of the business. In short, this visa is built for hands-on entrepreneurs.
With a solid business model, detailed business plans, and a strategy to create jobs and make commercial sense, you can bring your family members, including your spouse and unmarried children, along for the ride.
A good law firm or immigration attorney can help make sure your visa application is sharp, strategic, and ready for approval.
What Businesses are Best for E2?
The E2 visa opens the door for treaty investors to build businesses that have both present or future capacity to thrive and make a significant economic contribution.
The key? Choose a venture that shows growth potential, can create jobs, and makes good commercial sense in the U.S. market.
Here are the top business types that align with E2 visa requirements:
1. Franchises
Franchises are a top pick for E2 investors thanks to their established enterprise structure, proven business model, and built-in support. They make it easier to show a significant investment, take operational control, and hit the ground running with confidence.
You’re still the boss—the franchisor provides guidance, not micromanagement. Even if you’re new to U.S. business ownership, many systems offer training and support, giving your venture the future capacity to grow.
2. Consultancy
Do you have expertise in a niche field? Starting a consulting business can be a lean, smart E2 play. With a strong business plan, room to scale, and a service that makes commercial sense, it’s easy to show future capacity and avoid being labeled a marginal enterprise.
Aim for at least $50K in investment capital—think office setup, hiring, and branding—to prove you’re serious.
3. E2 Visas for Multinational Corporations
Some global companies opt for E2 visas over L visas to transfer talent—especially when both the company and employee are from the same treaty country.
The role must be a managerial position or one requiring specialized skills, and the business must prove a U.S. hire couldn’t fill the role quickly.
A solid law firm can help make that case airtight.
4. Purchase an Existing Business
Buying a business for sale in the U.S. for an E-2 visa means purchasing an existing company to show you’re investing in a real, active business. While it might sound easier since the business is already running, it often comes with headaches—unclear financials, hidden issues, and a long, stressful search process.
It can take a year or more to find the right business, and by the time you’re done with legal fees and due diligence, you may have spent thousands just to figure out it’s not the right fit.
If you’re aiming for a smoother path to E2 approval, franchises just make sense. With built-in support, a proven track record, and strong growth potential, they’re a smart way to invest with confidence.
Let’s dive into 20 franchise opportunities that are E2 visa-friendly and ready for your next big move.
20 Best Franchise Businesses to Buy for E2 Visa
The E-2 visa mandates that foreign aspiring entrepreneurs and investors to establish a genuine and active U.S. enterprise, offering employment opportunities for American workers.
There are no strict limitations on the business type permissible under the E2 visa as long as it demonstrates a viable path to profitability.
1. Pizza Franchise
Pizza remains one of the most universally beloved foods in the U.S., with strong year-round demand. The franchise model for pizza is proven, offering robust operational systems and often a lower upfront cost compared to other restaurant models.
Key Considerations:
- Low Entry Costs: Many pizza franchises offer relatively low initial investments, typically ranging between $150,000 and $500,000, depending on the brand and location.
- Scalability: Pizza franchises often benefit from high margins, particularly in areas with limited competition.
- Challenges: Labor management can be an issue, as a pizza operation typically requires a mix of front-line workers, cooks, and delivery staff.
2. Ice Cream Franchise
Ice cream has a strong, almost seasonal loyalty, with significant opportunities for cross-selling other dessert items, coffee, and smoothies. With relatively low startup costs and the ability to open smaller units, ice cream franchises are ideal for those seeking a low-risk, high-reward investment.
Key Considerations:
Consumer Appeal: There is always demand for ice cream, especially in family-friendly or tourist-heavy areas.
Seasonality: In colder climates, business may slow down during winter months, so additional product offerings (like hot drinks) could buffer seasonal dips.
Support and Training: Franchisors typically offer extensive training programs to ensure operational efficiency and quality control.
3. Bakery Franchise
Bakeries are perennial favorites, and in recent years, the focus on organic, artisanal, and health-conscious products has added a new layer of appeal. With a relatively low investment barrier, bakeries make for great E-2 options, particularly for those interested in building a community-centric brand.
Key Considerations:
Brand Loyalty: Consumers are often highly loyal to a specific bakery brand, increasing the likelihood of repeat business.
Profit Margins: Margins on baked goods can be high, especially when operating in high-demand areas like shopping centers or urban centers.
Startup Costs: Initial investment can be moderate to high depending on the size and scale, but bakeries usually offer financing assistance.
4. Chicken Sandwich Franchise
The chicken sandwich craze continues to drive explosive growth in the fast-casual dining segment. Well-established franchises in this category tend to have strong brand recognition and a proven business model.
Key Considerations:
- Competitive Landscape: The chicken sandwich category has become crowded with competitors like Chick-fil-A, Popeyes, and other regional players. It’s important to assess the brand’s market position and the competitiveness of your location.
- Labor Intensity: Like other fast-food franchises, operating a chicken sandwich franchise requires effective management of both front-line and kitchen staff.
- Investment Levels: Entry costs can vary widely, with some franchises requiring a hefty investment of $500,000 or more to open a location.
5. Chicken Wings Franchise
Similar to pizza, chicken wings are a popular, easy-to-love food item. The wings segment has exploded in recent years, with many brands successfully capturing a loyal customer base.
Key Considerations:
Growth Potential: The market for chicken wings is expected to keep growing, driven by both dine-in and delivery services. Franchises with delivery and takeout models may have an advantage, particularly with the rise of third-party apps like UberEats and DoorDash.
Startup Costs: Many chicken wing franchises are in the $200,000 to $500,000 range, but additional capital may be required for renovations and equipment.
Brand Support: Look for franchises that provide strong marketing support and proven operational systems to mitigate the risks associated with a competitive market.
6. Residential Cleaning Franchise
The cleaning services industry is both recession-proof and highly scalable. Residential cleaning is a growing sector due to the increase in dual-income households and demand for convenience. The low overhead costs make cleaning franchise an attractive choice for international investors.
Key Considerations:
Lower Investment: Residential cleaning franchises typically require minimal capital—ranging from $50,000 to $150,000.
Scalability: With minimal equipment and the ability to work with part-time employees, this model scales efficiently.
Regulatory Considerations: Understand state-specific licensing requirements and ensure compliance with environmental standards, as many consumers now seek eco-friendly cleaning services.
7. Commercial Cleaning Franchise
The commercial cleaning market is similarly recession-resistant, with increasing demand for post-pandemic sanitization and hygiene protocols. This business typically offers stable cash flow through recurring contracts, particularly with corporate clients, medical facilities, and schools.
Key Considerations:
Long-Term Contracts: Commercial cleaning services can lock in long-term contracts, providing more predictable revenue streams.
Investment: Initial investments vary widely depending on the brand, typically ranging from $100,000 to $500,000.
Labor Management: This business requires effective oversight of a diverse workforce, from administrative personnel to cleaning staff. Proper training and recruitment are key to minimizing turnover.
8. Laundromat Franchise
The laundromat industry provides a reliable, low-maintenance business model with predictable income. Franchises with newer technology like card payment systems and mobile apps for customer convenience are increasingly popular.
Key Considerations:
Steady Revenue: Laundromats generate consistent cash flow, especially in densely populated areas with high apartment densities.
Capital Costs: Initial investment can range from $200,000 to $500,000, depending on the size and equipment required.
Location is Key: A successful laundromat franchise business needs to be located in high-traffic residential areas. Market research is crucial for determining the right location.
9. Junk Removal Franchise
Junk removal has exploded as both a necessity and a service for a variety of industries—residential, commercial, and construction. As a relatively easy-to-operate business with minimal overhead, junk removal franchises can generate healthy margins with the right logistics in place.
Key Considerations:
- Growth Potential: Driven by the growing need for decluttering, waste management, and disposal, this sector continues to expand.
- Profitability: Junk removal businesses typically enjoy high-profit margins, especially in metropolitan areas with high population turnover.
- Operational Simplicity: The business involves logistics, fleet management, and customer service, but it doesn’t require extensive training or specialized knowledge.
10. Insulation Franchise
Home energy efficiency is becoming a critical concern for homeowners and businesses alike. Insulation franchises tap into a growing market focused on reducing energy costs and improving environmental sustainability.
Key Considerations:
Niche Market: While the insulation market is growing, it is still relatively niche, which means less competition and potentially higher profit margins for those who specialize in green energy solutions.
Technical Know-How: You will need skilled technicians for installation, but many franchises offer in-depth training and certification programs.
Long-Term Value: The demand for home improvements, particularly energy-efficient ones, is likely to continue as sustainability becomes a bigger issue.
11. Fitness Franchise
The fitness industry is booming, fueled by a growing focus on personal health and wellness. Fitness franchises, particularly those with unique offerings like boutique fitness centers, HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), or specialized studios (yoga, pilates), cater to a wide demographic and offer scalable business models.
Key Considerations:
Recurring Revenue: Membership-based models generate predictable, recurring income, which is highly appealing for franchisees looking for steady cash flow.
Operational Efficiency: Many fitness franchises have streamlined operations, which reduce the need for on-site staff or extensive managerial oversight.
Market Saturation: Be mindful of your location’s competitive landscape, as fitness franchises are widespread, and finding an underserved area is key to success.
12. Hair Salon Franchise
The beauty industry, and specifically hair salons, remain highly resilient, driven by repeat business and high margins. Hair salons offer strong customer loyalty, and franchises typically provide excellent training and brand recognition, reducing the risk for E-2 visa investors.
Key Considerations:
- Customer Retention: Success in the hair salon business is built on retaining a loyal customer base. Frequent repeat visits ensure stable revenue.
- Low Inventory Costs: Unlike other retail operations, hair salons require minimal inventory, focusing mainly on equipment and consumables.
- Location is Key: Selecting a location with high foot traffic is essential, but smaller, boutique-style salons can be successful in residential neighborhoods as well.
13. Pet Care Franchise
The pet care market continues to explode as pet ownership reaches new highs in the U.S. Pet care services, including grooming, boarding, daycare, and pet supplies, are in high demand, making it an attractive industry for E-2 investors.
Key Considerations:
Steady Demand: Pet owners prioritize their pets’ well-being, which ensures steady demand for grooming, daycare, and other services.
Emotional Connections: Pet care businesses can create strong emotional ties with customers, encouraging repeat business and referrals.
Franchise Support: Look for franchises that provide operational support, as the pet care industry can involve complex logistics and animal care protocols.
14. Senior Care Franchise
The aging population is growing rapidly in the U.S., which is creating a strong demand for senior care services.
Many senior care franchises provide in-home care, allowing older people over 70 years old to remain in their homes for as long as possible. This industry is a great fit for those interested in providing a valuable service that directly impacts the lives of others.
Key Considerations:
Growing Market: The senior population is expected to continue expanding, meaning this industry offers long-term growth potential.
Regulatory Environment: Ensure you’re aware of licensing and regulatory requirements for providing healthcare-related services, as this can vary from state to state.
Emotional Fulfillment: While this industry can be challenging, it can also be incredibly rewarding, as it provides essential services to a vulnerable population.
15. Automotive Repair Franchise
The U.S. automotive repair industry is a multi-billion-dollar market with strong demand driven by the aging vehicle fleet. Franchises in the automotive repair space, including oil change services, tire repair, and brake maintenance, tend to have high repeat business and steady cash flow.
Key Considerations:
- Recession-Resistant: Regardless of economic conditions, vehicles require maintenance and repairs, which makes the automotive repair sector recession-proof.
- Scalability: The business can be scaled with additional locations and mobile services, but you’ll need skilled technicians, which may require additional investment in labor or training.
- High Initial Investment: Depending on the scale of the franchise, initial investment requirements can range from $150,000 to $500,000.
16. Real Estate Franchise
The real estate industry remains one of the most lucrative sectors in the U.S., and franchising in this space offers the advantage of leveraging brand recognition, marketing tools, and an established customer base.
For those with an interest in property, the real estate franchise can be a lucrative business model.
Key Considerations:
Market Fluctuations: The real estate market can be volatile, so it’s crucial to be prepared for cyclical ups and downs.
Initial Investment: While real estate franchises can have lower initial investment requirements, it’s essential to consider office space, licensing fees, and marketing costs.
Training and Support: A successful real estate franchise will provide robust support and training to ensure that you can effectively manage your operations and grow your team.
17. Restaurant Franchises (Fast-Casual)
Fast-casual restaurants combine the quick service of fast food with the higher quality of casual dining. These franchises offer a growing segment within the restaurant industry, appealing to customers seeking healthier, convenient, and customizable dining options.
Key Considerations:
Increased Demand for Health-Conscious Options: The fast-casual space is booming, driven by consumer preferences for healthier dining.
Labor and Operations: Managing staffing and keeping operations streamlined for maximum profitability is critical.
Investment Range: Entry costs for fast-casual franchises can vary, typically ranging from $300,000 to $600,000.
18. Travel Franchise
The travel industry offers a wide range of opportunities, from travel agencies to guided tours and specialty travel services. While the pandemic caused a temporary setback, the travel industry has bounced back, and franchising provides a path to capitalize on rising demand.
Key Considerations:
- Increased Travel Demand: As travel rebounds, there is a growing demand for vacation planning, corporate travel management, and specialized tour services.
- Online Competition: Although online travel agencies dominate the space, franchised travel agencies offer the benefits of personalized service and expert knowledge.
- Minimal Overhead: Travel franchises often have relatively low overhead costs, as they are service-based businesses requiring minimal physical inventory.
19. Landscaping Franchise
Landscaping is an evergreen industry, with steady demand for both residential and commercial landscaping services. As consumers increasingly prioritize outdoor living spaces, the need for professional landscaping continues to grow.
Key Considerations:
High Profit Margins: Landscaping businesses often benefit from high margins, especially for ongoing contracts and specialized services.
Seasonality: Depending on location, landscaping services can be seasonal, so consider adding additional offerings such as snow removal or lawn care in the off-season.
Scalability: Landscaping franchises can be easily scaled by adding crews or expanding service areas.
20. Technology Franchise (Tech Support, IT Services)
As technology becomes integral to every business, the need for IT services and support is growing. Technology franchises offer services such as computer repair, network management, and tech consulting, which are in high demand across sectors.
Key Considerations:
Growing Market: The tech sector continues to expand, offering significant opportunities for franchisees.
Specialized Knowledge: While the franchise provides the brand and tools, having a background in IT or technology services can be beneficial.
Ongoing Revenue Models: Many tech service franchises offer managed services and subscription models, providing recurring revenue.
Conclusion
E-2 visa franchise opportunities offer a range of options for those wanting to own their own business while maintaining lawful nonimmigrant status. It’s crucial to choose a bona fide enterprise—one that is legitimate, profitable, and capable of supporting you and your employees. Whether you’re interested in food service or service-based franchises, there’s something for every investor.
To ensure your business meets the necessary visa requirements and aligns with your goals, it’s highly recommended to work with a U.S. franchise consultant. They’ll help you find the right franchise and guide you through the E-2 visa process.
Ready to start your E-2 visa franchise journey? Reach out to a U.S. franchise consultant today to get expert advice and take the next step in building your business!