Thinking about investing in car wash franchises as part of your E-2 visa journey? You’re not alone. The U.S. car wash industry has come a long way since its early days in the 1900s.
Today, it’s a booming market with over 60,000 businesses nationwide, generating an estimated $14.74 billion in 2024. Steady growth is projected at a CAGR of 2.1% from 2025 to 2030.
The best car wash franchises offer significant potential in this market, with high cash flow and low upfront costs making them attractive options for investors.
With consumer demand for convenience and eco-friendly car care on the rise, now could be the perfect time for foreign entrepreneurs to enter the U.S. market through franchising. Investing in an established car wash brand can offer a smoother path than building a business from the ground up.
But here’s the real question—can a car wash franchise help you secure an E-2 visa? What types of car wash franchises are available in the U.S.? And most importantly, does this opportunity align with your goals and skills?
In this blog, we’ll break down these key questions to help you make an informed decision on your path to U.S. business ownership. Let’s dive in!
Why Invest in a Car Wash Franchise Under the E-2 Visa?
Choosing a franchise for your E-2 visa investment isn’t just about owning a business—it’s about stepping into a proven system with built-in support. One of the biggest advantages of franchising is brand recognition, a proven business model, and guidance from experienced franchisors.
Unlike starting from scratch, where you need to build everything—including a customer base—from the ground up, a franchise offers a solid foundation that reduces risk and increases your chances of success.
A car wash business can be a great fit for potential franchise owners but must meet key requirements. Your investment needs to be substantial—meaning it should fund a real, operational business with strong growth potential.
The startup costs should cover essentials such as:
- Equipment and machinery
- Property purchase (if not leasing)
- Business licenses and permits
- Staff training programs
- Other necessary operational expenses
Most importantly, your business must not be marginal—it should generate enough revenue to support you and contribute to the U.S. economy. This means creating jobs for American workers and demonstrating your business’s long-term value.
A car wash franchise could be your path to U.S. business ownership and a successful E-2 visa application—so is this the right investment for you?
Types of Car Wash Franchises & Their Revenue Potential for E-2 Investors
The car wash industry in the U.S. is thriving, making it a promising opportunity for E-2 visa investors who want a business with built-in job creation. Some well-known franchise brands, like Tommy’s Express, generate over $2 million in annual gross sales, proving that this can be a highly profitable venture.
If you’re considering investing in a car wash franchise, it’s essential to think about your goals, how involved you want to be in daily operations, and your financial capacity. Below, we break down four popular car wash models and what they offer E-2 visa investors.
1. Express Car Wash Franchises
An express or automatic car wash is designed for speed and convenience, offering a quick and efficient way to keep vehicles clean. This business model relies on advanced and fully automated car wash equipment to deliver a thorough wash in just minutes, making it a popular choice for busy customers who want a fast, affordable solution.
Many express car washes use conveyor or belt systems to streamline the process, allowing for high customer turnover without compromising quality. Leading brands like Mr. Clean Car Wash and Tommy’s Express have enhanced this model with technology-driven features such as license plate recognition and membership programs. They create a seamless experience for customers while ensuring a steady stream of recurring revenue for business owners.
Why Invest in an Express Car Wash Franchise?
- High customer volume – Fast service means more cars are washed daily.
- Recurring revenue – Membership programs create steady, predictable income.
- Scalability – A great choice for investors who want to expand to multiple locations.
- E-2 visa advantages – Strong financials can help with visa renewals.
Investment Breakdown
- Initial investment: $2M – $5M
- Franchise fee: $30K – $50K
- Real estate: Higher costs due to prime locations
- Royalty fees: 5-8% of gross sales
2. Full-Service Car Wash Franchises
A full-service car wash offers much more than just an exterior wash—it includes interior cleaning, vacuuming, waxing, and even high-end treatments like ceramic coatings. Unlike express car washes, this model relies on skilled employees and hands-on customer interaction, leading to a stronger, more loyal customer base.
Why Invest in a Full-Service Car Wash Franchise?
- Higher revenue per customer – People are willing to pay more for premium car wash services.
- Job creation – Typically employs 20+ workers, which can strengthen an E-2 visa application.
- Loyal customers – Personalized service keeps customers coming back.
Investment Breakdown
- Initial investment: $1M – $3M
- Franchise fee: $40K – $60K
- Car wash equipment costs: Higher due to specialized detailing tools
- Real estate needs: Larger spaces with waiting areas
- Operational costs: Includes labor and marketing expenses
3. Mobile Car Wash Franchises: A Flexible and Scalable Business for E-2 Visa Investors
A mobile car wash franchise offers a cost-effective and in-demand business model that brings car cleaning and detailing services directly to customers, whether at their homes, workplaces or a commercial parking lot.
Unlike traditional car washes that require a permanent location, mobile car washes operate from vehicles, allowing owners to save on real estate costs while reaching a larger customer base.
Today’s consumers increasingly prioritize convenience, sustainability, and efficiency. Instead of taking time out of their day to visit a car wash, they can schedule a mobile service through an app or website, and a cleaning unit arrives at their preferred location.
Brands like Prime Car Wash and Fleet Clean USA have successfully tapped into this market by incorporating digital booking systems, subscription-based services, and eco-friendly cleaning solutions.
Why Invest in a Mobile Car Wash Franchise?
Lower overhead costs – Eliminates the need for expensive real estate and large-scale equipment.
Scalability – Start with a single van and expand by adding more service units as demand grows.
High consumer demand – More people are choosing on-demand, environmentally friendly car care.
E-2 visa eligibility – Demonstrating business activity and job creation, such as hiring technicians, and supporting visa applications.
Financial Considerations
- Initial investment: $50,000 – $150,000
- Franchise fee: $20,000 – $40,000
- Equipment costs: Mobile cleaning systems, waterless wash products
- Marketing efforts: Essential for building a strong customer base
- Return on investment: Faster due to lower operational costs
4. Self-Service Car Wash Franchises: A Low-Maintenance, High-Return Business for E-2 Visa Investors
A self-service car wash offers an affordable and semi-passive business model where customers clean their own vehicles using coin-operated or digital payment systems.
Unlike full-service or express car washes, this model requires minimal staffing, making it a great option for investors looking for low labor costs and steady revenue without hands-on management.
With advancements in touchless car wash technology, cashless payment options, and eco-friendly cleaning methods, self-service car washes have become an attractive and profitable investment.
Many E-2 visa investors choose this model because it meets the visa’s “substantial investment” requirement while providing a relatively passive income stream.
Why Invest in a Self-Service Car Wash Franchise?
Low staffing requirements – Reduces labor expenses over time.
Steady revenue stream – Customers pay per use, ensuring consistent income.
Lower operational risks – Regular maintenance helps prevent major repair costs.
E-2 visa compliance – Requires investment in infrastructure, marketing, and customer service.
Financial Considerations
- Initial investment: $250,000 – $750,000
- Franchise fee: $25,000 – $50,000
- Equipment costs: Pressure washers, vacuums, drying systems
- Real estate expenses: Location is key—high-traffic areas provide the best results
- Franchise support: Includes training, maintenance guidance, and business management tools
Finding the Right Car Wash Franchise for Your E-2 Visa Investment
Choosing from the top car wash franchises for your E-2 visa requires careful consideration of your budget, business goals, and visa requirements. Whether you’re looking for a high-traffic location, a cost-effective mobile business, or a low-maintenance self-service model, your investment should align with both your financial capacity and long-term growth plans.
Before committing to a franchise, take the time to review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), evaluate potential returns on investment, and compare different franchise programs. A well-chosen franchise can provide not only a profitable business opportunity but also a strong foundation for your E-2 visa approval and renewal.
If you’re ready to take the next step, connect with a US franchise consultant for an E2 Visa to explore your best options and start your journey toward business ownership in the U.S.