There is no single price for the E2 Visa. The total cost is the sum of a few parts — and the largest of them, the investment in the business, isn't really an expense: it's capital that becomes your own equity. Let's separate each item so you can plan realistically.
First, a positioning note: Unike advises on the selection and analysis of the franchise. The fees and rates on the immigration side vary by professional and by case — the attorney defines those. The values below are general references so you understand the cost structure, not a fixed price list.
1. The investment in the business (the largest item)
This is the heart of the E2. Attorneys usually recommend starting at US$ 100,000, but the amount must be substantial relative to the cost of that specific business. This money doesn't "evaporate": it becomes your franchise, your equipment, your inventory, your location. It's an investment that needs to be committed and at risk before the application.
2. Immigration attorney fees
The attorney structures the case, validates whether the business qualifies, and prepares the application. It's an essential cost — trying to save here usually ends up expensive. The amount varies with the complexity of the case and the firm you choose.
3. A professional business plan
The E2 normally requires a well-grounded business plan, with financial and hiring projections. It's often prepared by a specialized firm, and that goes into the budget.
4. Setting up the company in the US
Incorporating the company, hiring an accountant, organizing taxes, and meeting local requirements are recurring costs that start in the preparation phase.
5. Government fees
There are consular fees for the visa itself, paid per applicant, plus possible costs for documentation, translations, and travel to the consulate. These are small compared to the investment, but they belong in the plan.
Adding up the process side — immigration attorney, business plan, and company setup — a general reference is around US$ 10,000 for most families. This is separate from the business investment and varies by case: the professionals chosen, the company's complexity, and the applicant's history can make it somewhat lower or higher.
6. Working capital and initial operations
Every business takes time to stand on its own feet. It's prudent to reserve working capital to cover rent, payroll, suppliers, and expenses in the first months, without depending on immediate profit.
7. The family's moving costs
Finally, don't forget personal expenses: housing, healthcare, school, transportation, and the cost of living in the US while the business is still gaining traction. This family planning is part of the budget, even though it doesn't count as "investment" for the visa.
"Cost" and "investment" are not the same thing. Fees, rates, and the business plan are expenses of the process. The amount put into the business — the largest part — becomes your equity. Looking only at the total number is scary; separating the parts helps you decide.
How to reduce the financial risk
There are ways to protect part of the money in case the visa is not approved. Many franchisors used to E2 candidates accept refund clauses for the franchise fee (partial or total). Another option is the escrow account, where the amount is held by a third party and only goes to the franchisor if the visa is issued. These are points we negotiate and analyze together with you.
Where Unike comes in
We help you choose a franchise compatible with the investment you have available and negotiate contractual conditions — including protections like refunds. The visa side, fees, and legal costs stay with the immigration attorney we refer. That way you have clarity on every piece of the cost before committing funds.