The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa isn’t just a way to live and work in the U.S.—it’s an opportunity to take charge of your future and build something meaningful. If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a small franchise business owner, this visa lets you do just that by investing in and actively managing a U.S.-based business.
For many entrepreneurs, franchising is an ideal way to qualify. Instead of starting from scratch, you get a proven business model, built-in support, and the backing of an established brand. This structure not only increases your chances of visa approval but also gives you a stronger foundation for long-term success.
Brand recognition is another big advantage. When you invest in a franchise, you’re stepping into a business that already has credibility, making it easier to attract customers and grow. If you’re looking for a smart, structured way to turn your investment into a thriving business, franchising under the E-2 visa could be the perfect fit.
What Does a “Substantial Initial Investment” Really Mean for an E-2 Visa?
If you’re considering the E-2 visa, you’ve probably heard that you need to make a substantial investment—but what does that actually mean? There’s no magic number, but the key is to show that your investment is big enough to make your business work and contribute to the U.S. economy.
Here’s what immigration officials look for:
- Is your investment significant? It should be a meaningful percentage of the total cost to start or buy the business. The bigger the business, the bigger your investment should be.
- Are you committed? Your investment should be enough to set your business up for success—not just to get the visa.
- Are you taking a risk? The money must be actively spent on the business, not just sitting in a bank account. This shows you’re serious.
- Will the business do more than just support you? Your business needs to generate jobs or contribute to the economy—it can’t just provide you with a paycheck.
While there’s no set minimum investment, most successful applicants invest between $50,000 and $150,000.
Why a Franchise with Low Franchise Fees is a Smart Choice for E-2 Visa Investors
Starting a business in a new country is a big step—but choosing a franchise can make the process much smoother. Here’s why so many E-2 investors go this route:
- You’re not starting from scratch. A franchise gives you a proven system to follow, reducing the guesswork and increasing your chances of success.
- You get training and support. Most franchises provide guidance on operations, marketing, and management, helping you hit the ground running.
- The brand is already recognized. People already know and trust the brand, making it easier to attract customers.
Understanding the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is crucial as it outlines the responsibilities of the franchisee, the expectations from the franchisor, and details the financial commitments and regulatory requirements associated with starting a franchise.
Plus, many service-based and low-overhead franchises fit within the E-2 visa investment range, typically costing $50,000 to $200,000 to start.
If you’re a foreign entrepreneur looking for a structured, lower-risk way to start your U.S. business, franchising could be the perfect solution. It not only helps meet E-2 visa requirements but also gives you a strong foundation to build a thriving business in the U.S.
13 Low Cost Franchises for E-2 Visa Applicants
Many cheap franchises offer training, support, and a built-in customer base, making them attractive to investors. Here are low-cost franchises that align with E-2 visa requirements, scalable and long-term growth potential.
1. Cleaning Franchise
If you’re looking for a stable, high-demand business, a cleaning franchise could be the perfect fit—especially for E-2 visa applicants. With more people prioritizing cleanliness, both homes and businesses need reliable cleaning services. North America dominated the industry with a 37.65% market share in 2024, proving it’s a thriving space with plenty of opportunity.
The best part? Low startup costs, flexible business options, and recurring revenue make it easier to get started and grow. Plus, franchisors provide training, marketing support, and business coaching—so you’re never on your own.
When considering a cleaning franchise, it’s important to evaluate the franchise fees. Many opportunities offer low initial franchise fees, making it financially accessible for aspiring entrepreneurs. This allows franchisees to retain a higher percentage of profits and benefit from a low-cost entry into the franchise system.
Services available:
- Green cleaning
- Carpet and floor cleaning
- Residential and commercial cleaning
- Move-in/move-out cleaning
- Cleaning supplies and sanitation services
2. Vending Franchise
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, flexible business, a vending franchise could be a great fit—especially for E-2 visa investors. With cashless payments and healthier snack options on the rise, the vending industry is adapting to modern consumer needs while offering semi-passive income potential.
One of the biggest advantages of a vending franchise is its affordable startup cost and minimal overhead, making it a prime example of low cost franchise opportunities. Whether you want to run it full-time or as a side business, strategically placed machines generate steady, hands-off revenue. Plus, many franchisors offer financing support and turnkey solutions, so you’ll have guidance every step of the way.
Services available:
- Snack and beverage vending
- Frozen food and healthy vending options
- Water and coffee machines
3. Juice Bar Franchise
With more people embracing healthy, organic drinks, juice bars are thriving—making them a great business opportunity for E-2 visa investors. Consumers love the convenience and freshness of smoothies and juices, making this a high-demand, on-the-go choice for busy professionals, fitness enthusiasts, and health-conscious individuals.
A well-known juice franchise provides brand recognition, loyal customers, and a proven business model, helping franchisees hit the ground running. Additionally, the initial franchise fee is a critical factor to consider, as it can range from as low as $1,250 to $8,000, influencing the overall investment costs and affordability of starting a juice bar franchise.
Location is everything. Juice bars do best in high-traffic spots like gyms, malls, office buildings, and university campuses, where people are already looking for quick, nutritious options.
Services:
- Smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and wellness shots
- Event catering and mobile vending
- Loyalty programs and subscription-based services
4. Senior Care Franchise
With more seniors needing care than ever before, senior care is one of the fastest-growing industries in the U.S. By 2050, the number of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to reach 82 million, creating an urgent demand for quality care services.
A senior care franchise gives E-2 visa investors the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives while building a stable, recession-proof business.
For E-2 investors, a senior care franchise offers high demand and multiple revenue streams, including companion care, personal care, and medical assistance. It’s a proven business model with strong franchisee satisfaction, making it easier to get started with full training and ongoing support from industry experts.
A franchise business review is crucial for evaluating franchise opportunities, providing potential franchisees with essential information on sales metrics and profit margins. This review helps individuals understand the financial performance and potential returns of various franchises, aiding in their decision-making process.
Plus, business loans and funding options help make franchise ownership more accessible, so investors can focus on growing their business and serving their community.
Services:
- Dementia care and care coordination
- Transportation and errand services
- Respite care and in-home assistance
5. Home Repair Franchise
Every home and building needs upkeep, which is why home repair is a steady, high-demand industry—perfect for E-2 visa investors looking for a profitable and reliable business.
From plumbing and electrical work to roofing and flooring, homeowners and property managers are always searching for trusted professionals. A home repair franchise gives you a proven business model, strong support, and a built-in customer base, making it easier to succeed.
For E-2 investors, this franchise offers a low startup cost and the flexibility to run it from home, keeping overhead low while you grow. These cost franchise opportunities are attractive due to their affordability and potential high returns on investment. The steady income from maintenance contracts ensures financial stability, while franchisors provide hands-on training, ongoing support, and lead-generation tools to help you attract and retain customers.
Services:
- Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC repairs
- Roofing and flooring installation
- Landscaping
6. Appliance Repair Franchise
When appliances break, people need fast, reliable repairs, making this a steady, high-demand business. With millions of appliances in homes and businesses across the U.S., appliance repair is a recession-resistant industry that keeps growing. Whether it’s a refrigerator, dishwasher, or washing machine, customers rely on skilled technicians to keep their homes and businesses running smoothly.
For E-2 visa investors, an appliance repair franchise offers low startup costs, flexible investment options, and home-based models to keep overhead low. As one of the cheapest franchise options, it provides an affordable entry point for those looking to start a business. Franchisees get market research, training, and financing support, making it easier to launch and scale. With repeat customers and strong demand, it’s a profitable and sustainable business.
Services:
- Refrigerator repair
- Washing machine repair
- Microwave repair
- Dryer repair
- Range hood repair
- Dishwasher repair
- Icemaker repair
7. Flooring Franchise
Every home and business needs quality flooring, making this a steady, high-demand industry. Whether it’s a renovation or new construction, customers look for reliable flooring services—and the numbers prove it.
In 2022, the U.S. flooring market was worth $20.56 billion, with expected growth of 3.8% annually through 2030. With repeat customers and ongoing demand, a flooring franchise offers a profitable, long-term business opportunity.
Aspiring franchise owners will find flooring franchises to be great low-cost franchises, providing substantial long-term returns and making them an appealing choice for those with limited capital.
For E-2 visa investors, this franchise provides a low-cost, home-based model, keeping startup and operational costs manageable. Franchisees benefit from strong industry support, hands-on training, and a proven business model, making it easy to start and grow—even without prior experience.
Services:
- Installation warranty
- Furniture removal
- Demo and disposal
- Post-project follow-up
8. Fence & Rail Business
Fencing and railing are essential for security, privacy, and aesthetics, making this a high-demand industry for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. As property owners continue to invest in security upgrades and outdoor enhancements, the fencing industry is thriving.
Whether it’s protecting a home, securing a business, or enhancing outdoor spaces, quality fencing solutions are always in demand.
The fence and rail business is part of the broader franchise industry, which offers diverse and lucrative investment opportunities across various sectors.
For E-2 visa investors, this franchise offers a proven, scalable business model backed by proprietary technology that streamlines operations and tracks potential clients. A Quick Start Program helps franchisees get up and running quickly, while onsite training and local subcontractor support makes managing installations easier.
The flexible ownership model, including semi-absentee and passive ownership options, allows investors to tailor their level of involvement. Additionally, a leveraged supply chain ensures cost-effective operations, making this a stable, profitable investment in a growing market.
Sample services:
- Fence installation
- Fence repair and maintenance
- Security solutions
- Deck and railing installation
- Landscaping and outdoor enhancements
- Consultation and design services
- Pool fencing
- Animal containment solutions
9. Residential & Commercial Painting Franchise
Painting services are always in demand, whether for home makeovers or commercial projects, making this a profitable small franchise business with low startup costs. Home and business owners constantly need interior and exterior painting, power washing, and color consultation, creating a steady stream of clients and repeat business.
Successful business owners in the painting franchise industry play a crucial role in managing teams and maximizing profitability. They receive resources and courses taught by experienced owners to enhance their business acumen and achieve greater success.
For E-2 visa investors, this small franchise business offers a low-overhead, home-based model with strong brand recognition and multiple revenue streams. Franchisees get hands-on training, operational support, and help with subcontractor recruitment, making it easier to grow and succeed—no painting experience required.
Sample services:
- Interior painting
- Power washing
- Color consultation
- Crown molding services
- Sandblasting
- Wall covering installation
- Industrial painting
10. Water Damage Restoration Franchise
Water damage happens unexpectedly, and when it does, homeowners and businesses need fast, professional restoration services. Whether it’s caused by floods, leaks, or natural disasters, this essential, recession-proof industry ensures steady demand. With insurance-backed revenue, franchisees benefit from consistent payments and long-term customer relationships, making it a stable, profitable small franchise business.
Understanding the financial and operational details of a water damage restoration franchise is crucial, and this is where franchise disclosure documents (FDDs) come into play. FDDs contain vital information that helps prospective franchisees assess the risks and make informed decisions.
For E-2 visa investors, this franchise offers a high-growth, scalable business backed by market research. With comprehensive training, operational support, and a proven business model, franchisees can build a reliable, growing company while helping communities recover from water-related damage.
Services offered:
- Water extraction
- Moisture mapping
- Water leak detection
- Dehumidification
- Mold remediation
- Contents cleaning & restoration
- Biohazard & contagious disease decontamination
- Document drying and restoration
11. Pest Control Franchise
Pest control is a necessity, not a luxury, making it a steady, recession-resistant industry. With pests posing health risks and property damage, residential and commercial clients rely on ongoing services for prevention and extermination. This scalable small franchise business benefits from repeat customers, strong market demand, and a simple business model.
Being a franchise owner in the pest control industry offers numerous benefits and opportunities, including lower startup costs, attractive profit margins, and comprehensive training programs.
For E-2 visa investors, this small franchise business offers quick startup, full training, and business loan options to help investors launch with confidence. With ongoing market demand and low operating costs, franchisees can build a profitable, long-term business that keeps communities safe.
Services:
- Pest extermination
- Pest prevention
- Pest management
12. Pet Care Franchise
With more people treating pets like family, the pet care industry is booming. Pet owners want high-quality, trusted care for their furry friends, creating a profitable small franchise business that blends passion and profit. From dog walking to pet grooming, this franchise offers multiple revenue streams and strong customer loyalty.
Starting a pet care franchise often requires low initial investments, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs. Many franchises can be launched with minimal startup costs, often under $10,000, which appeals to a variety of entrepreneurial goals while offering established support and brand recognition.
For E-2 visa investors, this small franchise business provides low startup costs, strong branding, and premium services for high-end clients. With flexible ownership models, including semi-absentee options, franchisees can run a rewarding, scalable business in a growing industry.
Sample Pet Care Franchise Services:
- Dog walking
- Pet sitting
- Pet grooming
- Boarding
- Pet training
- Waste removal
13. Real Estate Franchise
Real estate has long been one of the most stable and lucrative industries, offering consistent income and long-term security. Whether handling property management, brokerage, or commercial real estate, this small franchise business provides multiple revenue streams and market resilience.
According to the International Franchise Association, the growth of franchise businesses in the United States underscores the diverse opportunities available within the franchising landscape, particularly in the real estate industry.
For E-2 visa investors, this franchise offers national partnerships, automation-driven processes, and expert training, helping franchisees scale efficiently. With built-in marketing support, strategic planning, and financing options, this is a smart investment for long-term success in a high-demand industry.
Sample services:
- Property management
Buy/Sell
Valuations
Commercial real estate
Brokerage
Development/Construction
Tenant Representation
Final Thoughts
The E-2 visa offers foreign entrepreneurs a viable path to own business in the U.S., and investing in a franchise can be a smart and strategic way to meet its requirements. With built-in brand recognition, training, and operational support, franchises provide a structured approach that increases the chances of long-term success.
One of the key financial aspects to consider when starting a franchise business is the franchise fees. These fees can vary widely, offering opportunities with no initial franchise fees or a range of fees that make entry into the franchise system more accessible for aspiring entrepreneurs.
By selecting a franchise business that aligns with E-2 visa qualifications, investors can build a profitable enterprise while contributing to the U.S. economy. Whether it’s in-home services, senior care, or the growing pet industry, these franchise opportunities offer scalability, stability, and a clear pathway to business ownership.
If you’re ready to become your own boss and secure your E-2 visa through a proven franchise opportunity, now is the time to take action. Contact a U.S. franchise consultant for an E2 Visa today to receive expert guidance on selecting an opportunity that aligns with your investment goals and visa requirements.
Take the first step toward building your future—schedule a free consultation now!