8 Key Elements of a Strong E2 Visa Business Plan

Your plan is usually 15–25 pages—long enough to be thorough, short enough to be readable. Below are the key aspects every strong E2 visa business plan should cover.

1. Executive Summary

Your executive summary is the one-minute version of your story:

• what the business does,
• who it serves (a diverse client base or niche clients),
• how much investment you’ve committed,
• and how the economic benefit shows up in local job creation.

Many officers read only this section first. A clear summary that ties your investment amount and operational strategy directly to economic benefits improves comprehension and sets the right tone.

2. Business Description

Clarify whether you’re acquiring an existing business or launching a new venture. State your management structure and confirm you own at least 50% while running day-to-day operations.

Include the legal entity, location, and how the business operational setup supports your business model (e.g., franchise systems, supplier relationships, or partnerships).

The International Franchise Association reports that franchises account for over 780,000 U.S. businesses, employing more than 8 million workers. Many E2 investors choose franchises because the proven systems and support ease the visa application process.

3. Market & Industry Analysis

Your market analysis should translate complex data into plain English. Identify competitors, customer needs, seasonality, pricing, and demand drivers. Tie insights to your marketing strategies and positioning—why your U.S. business stands out.

Use credible data sources such as IBISWorld, Statista, or U.S. Small Business Administration reports. For example, if your new venture is in food services, note that the U.S. restaurant industry generated over $899 billion in sales in 2022—proof of a large market opportunity.

4. Marketing Strategies

Spell out the channels that will bring in clients: local outreach, partnerships, SEO, ads, referrals, and franchise support if applicable.

If you’ve already held a business meeting, signed letters of intent, or secured supplier partnerships, include them. These tangible details demonstrate preparation and improve your plan’s credibility with immigration officers.

5. Personnel Requirements & Hiring Plan

Detail the roles, personnel requirements, and hiring timeline for the first 3–5 years: name positions, salaries, onboarding dates, and training plans.

Employment Data: USCIS guidance makes clear that one of the important factors in adjudication is whether your business venture will generate new jobs for Americans. The plan doesn’t need hundreds of hires—often 2–5 full-time positions within the first few years are enough to prove economic impact.

6. Investment Credibility & Proof of Funds

Lay out your investment funds with a clear paper trail: bank statements, wire confirmations, invoices, leases, and escrow agreements.

Show that your investment is already committed. For example, if you’re leasing space or purchasing equipment, include receipts. This proves you’re not speculative—you’ve put in substantial capital with a real economic benefit at stake.

7. Operational Strategy

Describe how your business will run: your management structure, operating systems, staffing, supply chains, and vendor agreements. Highlight your extensive experience or that of your team to reassure officers that your business operational capacity is strong.

8. Financial Projections

This is where you provide financial projections that align with reality. Include five-year forecasts with income statements, cash flow, and balance sheets.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 50% of small businesses survive at least five years. By showing conservative, achievable financial projections, you prove your business won’t just survive but thrive.

This not only supports you, your family, and employees but also contributes economic benefits like taxes and payroll.