Thinking About Selling Your Business? Have You Considered an E-2 Investor?

If you’re looking to sell your business, finding the right buyer can be one of the biggest challenges. You need someone with the financial means to purchase it, a strong interest in running it successfully, and the ability to close the deal without unnecessary roadblocks. Many sellers focus on local buyers or large corporations, but there’s a growing pool of investors actively searching for U.S. businesses—E-2 visa investors.

Who Are E-2 Investors?

E-2 investors are foreign nationals from treaty countries who want to own and operate a business in the U.S. To qualify for an E-2 visa, they must invest a substantial amount of money in a U.S. business—either by starting one from scratch or by purchasing an existing business. Many E-2 investors prefer to buy an established business because it offers stability, an existing customer base, and proven financials.

Why an E-2 Investor Could Be Your Ideal Buyer

If you’re planning to sell, an E-2 investor might be the perfect fit. Here’s why:

1. They Need a Business to Get Their Visa

Unlike other buyers who may take their time evaluating multiple opportunities, E-2 investors must have a business to secure their visa. This means they are often motivated to close deals quickly.

2. They Are Long-Term Investors

E-2 visa holders must actively manage the business they purchase. This means they’re not looking for a short-term flip—they need a business that can sustain their visa renewal process. If you care about the legacy of your company and want to ensure it continues to thrive, an E-2 buyer may be a great option.

3. They Can Provide a Competitive Offer

Many E-2 investors come with substantial personal funds, and because the visa requires them to fully commit to the business, they are often willing to meet a fair asking price. Unlike some domestic buyers who try to negotiate aggressive discounts, E-2 investors understand that a well-established business is worth paying for.

4. They May Be Open to Seller Financing

If you’re open to creative deal structures, some E-2 investors may be interested in seller financing, which allows you to receive payments over time rather than requiring a lump sum upfront. This can be a win-win, especially if it makes your business more attractive to a broader pool of buyers.

How to Position Your Business for an E-2 Investor

If you think an E-2 investor could be the right buyer for your business, here’s how to make your business more attractive to them:

Have a Strong Business Plan – E-2 investors must present a detailed business plan as part of their visa application. If you already have one, your business will be even more appealing.
Show Profitability or Growth Potential – Investors need to demonstrate that the business will generate enough income to support them and their families. Clean financial records and strong revenue numbers make your business more attractive.
Ensure the Business is Active and Operational – E-2 applicants cannot buy a business just to hold it—they must actively manage it. Having systems, processes, and staff in place makes it easier for an investor to take over.
Consult with Experts – Selling to an international investor requires an understanding of both business sales and E-2 visa requirements. Working with professionals who understand the process can help ensure a smooth transaction.

Is an E-2 Investor the Right Buyer for You?

If you’re selling your business and haven’t considered an E-2 investor, you might be missing out on a motivated, well-funded buyer. The key is structuring the sale in a way that works for both parties while ensuring the business remains compliant with E-2 visa requirements.

Need help preparing your business for sale? We specialize in crafting detailed business plans that align with E-2 visa requirements, making your business more attractive to potential foreign investors.

Want to learn more? Contact us today to explore how you can attract an E-2 buyer and successfully sell your business.

The information provided in this blog is intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, it should not be considered legal advice. Immigration laws and regulations are subject to change, and individual circumstances can vary widely. For personalized guidance and legal advice regarding your specific immigration situation, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration attorney who can provide you with tailored assistance and ensure compliance with current laws and regulations.

Visa Business Plans is led by Marco Scanu, a certified coach from the University of Miami with a globally-based practice coaching Fortune 1000 company executives, entrepreneurs, as well as professionals in four different continents. Mr. Scanu advises clients on turnaround strategies and crisis management.

Mr. Scanu received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Cum Laude) from the University of Florida and an MBA in Management from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. Mr. Scanu was also a Visiting Scholar at Michigan State University under the prestigious H. Humphrey Fellowship (Fulbright program) with a focus on Entrepreneurship, Venture Capital, and high-growth enterprises.

At present, Mr. Scanu is the managing partner and CEO at Visa Business Plans, a Miami-based boutique consulting firm providing attorneys and investors with business planning services in the areas of U.S. and Canadian immigration, SBA loans, and others.

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