International and E-2 investors
Franchise Opportunities for International Investors
Thinking about owning a business in the United States? A franchise gives international entrepreneurs an established model, a recognized brand, training and ongoing support as they enter the U.S. market.
Guidance for international buyers
Build your business future in the United States
We help international investors find franchise opportunities that fit their business goals, investment range, experience and plans for living or doing business in the United States.
Buying a franchise from outside the country brings extra financial, legal, immigration and operational questions. We keep the franchise search simple and clear, and introduce you to experienced professionals for the specialized parts of setting up a U.S. business.
Franchises for visa-minded investors
For some entrepreneurs, owning a business is part of a wider U.S. immigration plan. We can help you shortlist franchise concepts worth discussing with a qualified immigration attorney for programs such as:
- E-2 Treaty Investor visa. For nationals of treaty countries who make a substantial investment in a U.S. business they will develop and direct.
- EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. A route to permanent residence for investors who meet the program investment and job-creation requirements.
We are not immigration lawyers
Whether a franchise supports a visa application is a legal question for a licensed immigration attorney. We help you find a business that fits you, and introduce you to attorneys who can advise on the visa itself.
Why franchising
Why international investors consider U.S. franchises
Resources
The help international buyers usually need
Finding the right franchise is the start. We connect you with the professionals who handle the rest.
Immigration and legal
Experienced immigration and business attorneys who can assess your circumstances and advise on visas, entity structure and other legal questions.
Financing and investment
Financing a U.S. franchise as a foreign national works differently. Depending on your profile, options can include franchise lender programs, international funding, alternative financing and self-funded strategies.
Business setup and support
From comparing opportunities and meeting franchisors to forming the business and preparing to open, you have guidance through every step of discovery.
Questions
E-2 and international buyer questions
Can a franchise qualify for an E-2 visa?
Many franchise investments are used in E-2 applications, because the investor buys and actively runs a real, operating business. Whether a specific franchise and investment qualify depends on your nationality, the amount and source of funds, and the business plan, so an immigration attorney needs to review your case.
How much do I need to invest for an E-2 visa?
There is no fixed minimum. The investment has to be substantial in relation to the total cost of the business and committed to it. Your attorney can tell you what that means for the franchises you are considering.
Which countries are eligible for the E-2 visa?
Only nationals of countries that hold a qualifying treaty with the United States. The U.S. Department of State publishes the current list, and your attorney will confirm your eligibility.
What is the difference between E-2 and EB-5?
E-2 is a renewable, nonimmigrant visa tied to running your investment business. EB-5 leads to permanent residence and has its own investment and job-creation requirements. An attorney can explain which fits your goals.
Can you guarantee a visa?
No. Visa decisions are made by the U.S. government, and no franchise advisor or franchisor can promise an outcome. We help you choose a business that makes sense on its own merits, which also tends to make for a stronger application.
Does it cost anything to work with you?
Being matched and advised is free to you. Partner franchisors pay a fee when a candidate becomes a franchisee. Attorneys and other professionals we introduce set their own fees.
Explore
Popular industries with international buyers
Advertising and MarketingHelp local businesses win customers through digital marketing, advertising programs and promotional services.
Building and StorageReal estate heavy storage concepts and organization businesses that help people and companies manage their space.
Business OpportunitiesLow-cost franchises, licenses and dealerships, and how to tell a supported franchise from a lightly regulated offer.
Business to BusinessFranchises that sell to companies rather than consumers, built on accounts, contracts and professional relationships.This page is general information, not legal or immigration advice. Visa programs, eligibility and requirements change. Consult a licensed U.S. immigration attorney about your situation before making investment or immigration decisions.
Confidential. No obligation.
Get matched with the right franchise consultant before you commit a dollar.
A 30-minute discovery call about your background, capital and goals, so we can pair you with the consultant whose experience fits. No cost, no obligation, and a clearer picture either way.