Disclaimer: We are not affiliated to “College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants” (CICC) in Canada nor represent them by any means.
The E‑2 Treaty Investor Visa enables citizens of treaty countries to live and work in the U.S. by investing substantially in a new or existing American business. It’s ideal for entrepreneurs ready to grow their business and move to the U.S. while retaining ties with their home country.
Citizens of E‑2 treaty countries, such as Canada, Australia, the U.K., Japan, and many others.
Individuals willing to make a significant investment in a bona fide U.S. enterprise.
Entrepreneurs, self-employed investors, or active business operators—not passive investors.
Treaty Country Nationality
You must be a citizen of a country that has an E‑2 treaty with the U.S.
Substantial Investment
Investment must be sufficient to establish and operate the business; though no fixed amount exists, it generally ranges from $100,000 to $200,000+.
Real, Operating Enterprise
Your business must be active (not a shell) and capable of generating more than enough income to support you and your family.
You Must Develop and Direct
As the investor, you must own at least 50% or possess operational control of the business.
Marginality Rule
The business cannot be “marginal”—it must have the present or future capacity to support more than just you and your immediate family.
Initial visa: Usually valid for up to 2 years
Renewable indefinitely in 2-year increments, as long as the business operates
Spouse and children (under 21) can accompany you; spouses may apply for work authorization
Although the E‑2 isn’t a Canadian regulatory pathway, RCIC can support your U.S. investment journey by:
Helping evaluate if the E‑2 is a fit based on your nationality and investment amount
Advising on business plan development and compliance with U.S. regulations
Coordinating with U.S. immigration lawyers and preparing strong visa applications
The EB-2 visa is a U.S. employment-based immigrant visa for professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability in fields such as science, technology, healthcare, business, and education. It offers a direct pathway to permanent residency (green card) in the United States for highly skilled individuals who can contribute to the country’s economy and workforce.
This visa category is ideal for professionals who want to establish long-term roots in the U.S. with the opportunity to live, work, and bring their families.
Professionals with an advanced degree (Master’s or higher), or equivalent (Bachelor’s + 5 years progressive experience)
Individuals with exceptional ability in their profession (significantly above average)
Applicants pursuing roles that require such qualifications in the U.S.
Entrepreneurs or experts eligible for a National Interest Waiver (NIW)
EB-2 (PERM Labor Certification):
Requires a job offer from a U.S. employer
Employer must complete a PERM labor certification to prove no qualified U.S. worker is available
EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW):
Waives the job offer and labor certification if the applicant’s work is in the national interest
Ideal for researchers, entrepreneurs, and experts making significant contributions to U.S. society or economy
Permanent resident status (green card) for applicant and eligible family
Ability to live and work anywhere in the U.S.
Access to public education and healthcare
Pathway to U.S. citizenship
Determining your eligibility and best EB-2 route (PERM or NIW)
Coordinating with U.S. employers and legal teams
Preparing supporting documentation, resumes, and expert reference letters
Ensuring timely and strategic application submission
If you’re a highly skilled professional ready to take your career global, the EB-2 visa could be your gateway to a secure future in the U.S.
The EB-5 visa is a prestigious U.S. immigration program designed for investors who wish to obtain permanent residency (green card) by making a significant financial investment that supports job creation and economic growth in the United States.
Ideal for high-net-worth individuals seeking to combine business investment with immigration benefits, the EB-5 program offers a direct path to live, work, and build a future in the U.S.
Investment Amount: Typically USD $1.05 million, or USD $800,000 if invested in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA)—areas with high unemployment or rural locations
Investment must be in a new commercial enterprise or a Regional Center-approved project
The investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers within 2 years
Demonstrate that the investment funds are lawfully sourced
Meet standard health and character requirements
Conditional permanent residency for you, your spouse, and unmarried children under 21
Pathway to remove conditions after 2 years and obtain full green card status
Freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in the U.S.
No requirement to manage daily business operations personally (especially with Regional Center investments)
Access to the U.S. education system and healthcare
Navigating the EB-5 process can be complex—RCIC provides expert guidance including:
Assessing your eligibility and investment options
Helping select and evaluate Regional Center projects or direct investment ventures
Assisting with documentation of funds and lawful source
Coordinating with U.S. immigration attorneys to ensure a seamless application process
Embark on your investment journey with confidence. Let RCIC help you turn your investment into a permanent U.S. residency.
