Read the general investor planning overview
An E-2 business should be explained through its real operations and supported expectations. A customer contract can be relevant evidence, but it does not establish every enterprise or investment requirement. Examine the business proposed if the commercial assumptions change.
Read termination and scope terms
Hypothetical example: a Rocky View County investor plans around a first service contract. Identify what is actually promised, what can end early and what resources are needed to deliver. Keep signed work separate from expected follow-on orders.
Identify what remains in the business
Ask which staff, equipment, premises and capabilities would remain if that customer left. This is a practical way to examine assumptions, not an official requirement to predict a particular loss. Use the actual evidence to explain the enterprise and the non-marginality analysis.
Revisit funding and commitments
Keep the lawful capital history and investment terms separate from forecast customer receipts. Review loan, escrow or purchase conditions as relevant. A revised commercial plan may need reassessment; do not present a hoped-for contract payment as funds already invested or a forecast as a guaranteed result. The investment must be substantial relative to the business, committed and at risk. At least 50% treaty-national ownership must establish enterprise nationality, with at least 50% ownership or other qualifying operational control supporting the investor’s development and direction. Nonmarginality means capacity beyond a minimal family living or a significant economic contribution, with future capacity generally realizable within five years. The investor must intend to depart when E status ends; Canadian citizens generally require an E visa.
What else is on your mind?
Is there one minimum investment that guarantees E-2 eligibility?Is holding money or owning an asset enough for E-2?Editorial source review: 2026-09-07. General preparation guidance, not an individual assessment.