International Investors

Franchise Opportunities for
International Buyers

If you’re pursuing an E-2 or EB-5 Investor Visa, the business you choose matters. FranGroup helps you identify franchise models with real operations, real support, and real potential.

Visa Pathways at a Glance

Requirement / Feature
E-2 Investor Visa
EB-5 Investor Program
Who It's For
Treaty-country nationals investing in their own U.S. business
Global investors creating U.S. jobs via a new enterprise
Ownership / Control
~50%+ & must actively direct the business
Ownership, not necessarily day-to-day management
Investment Type
A real, operating franchise business
New commercial enterprise with job creation
Family Benefits
Spouse work eligibility + dependents
Pathway toward permanent residence
Status Length
Renewable
Leads toward Green Card
Typical Use Case
Running a franchise day-to-day
Larger investments, immigration-driven

E-2 Investor Visa

For investors from E-2 treaty countries, the E-2 visa allows you to invest in and actively operate a U.S. business. The government looks for a substantial, at-risk investment in a real operating enterprise and the investor’s ability to direct and develop the business, typically through majority ownership or control. The business must be active and operational, not a passive investment.

Franchises are built to operate from day one. Established systems offer documented operating models, defined owner involvement, training, and ongoing support, making it easier for attorneys to present a structured, bona fide business that aligns with E-2 requirements.

EB-5 Investor Basics

The EB-5 program is designed for investors seeking permanent U.S. residency through job-creating investments. At a high level, it requires investing in a new commercial enterprise that creates the required number of full-time U.S. jobs. Investment thresholds, structures, and timelines vary, and projects can be direct investments or part of regional center programs.

When structured correctly, franchising with documented business plans, defined staffing needs, and scalable growth assumptions can serve as a practical path toward building an operating business aligned with permanent residency requirements.

International Investors Opportunities
From overseas vision to real ownership
Franchise Group

What International Investors Typically Prepare

Your immigration attorney leads the entire legal strategy; the franchise team simply supports the business planning side. With your attorney, you’ll commonly collect: