Artificial intelligence (AI) has quickly taken center stage in U.S. technology investment. According to Reuters, AI startups captured 46.4 percent of U.S. venture capital funding in 2024. Even though the number of deals was down, overall venture capital activity still climbed by $47 billion that year. The State Science and Technology Institute notes that this shift reflects investors’ preference for larger and more substantial opportunities.
This surge in AI fits into a broader story about the strength of the technology sector as a whole. According to Statista, the industry contributed nearly two trillion dollars to U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) in 2023, which represented about 8.9 percent of the entire economy. On the employment side, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation reports that the U.S. information technology (IT) sector employed 5.9 million workers in 2020, equal to 4.4 percent of all jobs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projected that real output for the sector grew 2.3 percent annually and approached $1.1 trillion by 2024.
The demand for talent is just as striking. According to CompTIA, technology occupations are set to expand at nearly double the rate of overall U.S. employment during the next decade. At the same time, Forrester Research projected that U.S. technology spending reached $2.4 trillion in 2024, a figure that reinforces the country’s standing as the global leader in technology.
The performance of the U.S. technology sector also has direct relevance for foreign investors considering the E-2 visa. This visa category allows individuals from treaty countries to invest in and manage businesses in the United States. Because technology companies demonstrate consistent contributions to output, employment, and capital investment, the sector provides a strong foundation for enterprises that meet E-2 eligibility requirements.
E-2 Visa Requirements
Eligibility for the E-2 visa begins with nationality. Only citizens of countries that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States may apply. The Department of State maintains the official list of treaty countries.
Applicants must also show they are entering the United States to direct and develop a business in which they have invested, or are actively investing, a substantial amount of capital. USCIS does not define “substantial” with a set dollar amount. Instead, adjudicators consider whether the amount is sufficient to support the success of the business and whether the investor has made an irrevocable financial commitment. Funds must be at risk, meaning they are already allocated to business activities such as staffing, technology infrastructure, or leases.
The enterprise must be active and producing goods or services. Passive or speculative investments, such as holding undeveloped property or stock, are not eligible. The business must also be more than marginal, meaning it should generate income beyond supporting the investor and preferably create jobs or other measurable contributions to the U.S. economy.
Control of the enterprise is also required. Investors must own at least 50 percent of the business or hold an executive role that gives them operational authority. This ensures that applicants are actively engaged in management.
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may qualify as dependents. USCIS allows spouses to apply for work authorization while in the United States, providing flexibility for families.
Although the E-2 visa is temporary, it can be renewed in two-year increments as long as the business remains viable. This structure allows technology investors to grow their enterprises over time while maintaining lawful status.
Types of Technology Investments That Work
According to USCIS, the E-2 visa does not restrict applicants to one form of business. What matters is that the investment is substantial, placed at risk, and directed toward an active enterprise. In the technology sector, several models are well suited to these requirements.
Launching a new startup
Establishing a technology company from the ground up requires financial commitments in product development, staffing, and infrastructure. These demonstrate capital at risk and create opportunities for job growth.
Acquiring an existing firm
Purchasing a U.S. technology business, such as a software or IT services provider, can qualify if the investor takes control of operations and sustains or expands employment. Acquisitions may allow for faster entry since the business is already operating.
Forming a joint venture
Partnering with a U.S. company to expand technology operations is another option. By holding at least 50 percent ownership or operational authority, investors meet the control requirement while benefiting from local expertise.
Software as a Service (SaaS)
Subscription-based businesses require investment in infrastructure, development, and customer support. These commitments demonstrate substantial investment and align with E-2 standards.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics
With venture capital heavily focused on AI, startups in this space combine growth potential with job creation through technical staffing and ongoing development.
E-commerce and digital platforms
Online ventures that require warehouses, logistics, or proprietary technology qualify if the investment supports active operations.
Mobile applications and software development
Building apps involves significant costs in design, testing, and support. These investments put capital at risk and expand employment as the company scales.
Each of these investment types provides a path for entrepreneurs to align with E-2 requirements while participating in the growth of the U.S. technology industry.
Steps to Apply for an E-2 Visa in Technology
According to the Department of State, the process begins with confirming that the applicant holds citizenship in a treaty country. Once eligibility is clear, the following steps apply:
- Develop the business plan
Investors must document how their capital will be used, projected revenues, and the number of U.S. jobs created. For technology companies, this often includes forecasts for software development, staffing, and scaling operations. - Commit the investment
USCIS requires that funds be irrevocably committed. This can involve purchasing equipment, hiring employees, signing office leases, or transferring funds into a business account. - Establish control
Applicants must demonstrate ownership of at least 50 percent of the business or a managerial role that allows them to direct its activities. - File the application
Applicants outside the U.S. submit Form DS-160 and supporting documents to a U.S. consulate. Those already in the U.S. may file Form I-129 with USCIS to change status. - Attend the interview
Consular officers or USCIS adjudicators evaluate whether the investment is substantial, the enterprise is real and operating, and the applicant meets all requirements. Evidence may include contracts, bank transfers, business licenses, and proof of active operations.
E-2 visas are typically valid for up to two years and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business continues to meet program requirements.
Key Considerations for Investors
According to USCIS, the E-2 visa is a temporary non-immigrant classification. It does not provide a direct path to permanent residency, although it can be renewed as long as the business remains viable. Spouses and children under 21 may accompany the principal investor, and spouses are eligible to apply for work authorization.
Investors should be aware that visa status is tied to the business. If the enterprise fails or ceases operations, E-2 status may be lost. Careful planning, adequate capitalization, and strong business execution are critical for long-term success.
Pros of Investing in U.S. Technology for E-2 Applicants
- Strong contribution to GDP and employment growth
- Expanding faster than the overall economy
- Lower startup costs possible compared to heavy industries
- High venture capital activity, particularly in AI and SaaS
- Multiple tech hubs across the U.S. offering diverse opportunities
Cons of Investing in U.S. Technology for E-2 Applicants
- Intangible assets may make it harder to prove “substantial investment”
- Intense competition in crowded markets
- Rapid innovation cycles require constant reinvestment
- Visa status depends on the ongoing success of the business
Technology Hubs as Global Innovation Centers
For investors considering the E-2 visa, U.S. technology hubs represent some of the strongest ecosystems for launching or acquiring businesses. These regions bring together capital, talent, and infrastructure, creating an environment where new enterprises can scale.
Silicon Valley remains the world’s most established technology cluster. According to the Bay Area Council, the region consistently attracts about one-third of all U.S. venture capital investment, supported by over 225,000 high-tech workers. Its combination of research institutions, experienced founders, and access to investors makes it a critical entry point for startups.
Austin, Texas, often referred to as “Silicon Hills,” has become one of the fastest-growing technology economies in the country. Opportunity Austin reports that its tech GDP grew nearly 8 percent in 2024, ranking second nationally after Silicon Valley. The city also benefits from lower operating costs, a large STEM workforce, and a culture supportive of innovation.
Seattle, Washington, offers another significant hub, anchored by global leaders in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and e-commerce. According to Greater Seattle Partners, the region’s technology industry generated nearly $149 billion in economic impact in 2024 and supported more than 190,000 jobs. The city’s strengths in advanced enterprise technology make it a reliable base for growth.
Together, these hubs reinforce the United States’ position as a global leader in technology. For international entrepreneurs, they provide the networks and markets needed to build competitive businesses that align with E-2 visa requirements.
Conclusion
The E-2 visa offers entrepreneurs from treaty countries a viable way to establish a business in the United States. With its consistent contribution to the economy, strong employment outlook, and record-setting investment activity, the U.S. technology sector aligns closely with E-2 requirements. While challenges such as competition and the need to document intangible investments exist, the sector’s growth and resilience make it one of the most promising fields for international investors seeking both immigration benefits and long-term business success.
*Figures are drawn from the cited third-party publications and government datasets and were current as of the publication date. While we strive for accuracy, please independently verify any numbers that are material to your decisions.
Sources
- Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/technology/artificial-intelligence/ai-startups-drive-vc-funding-resurgence-capturing-record-us-investment-2024-2025-01-07/
- State Science and Technology Institute (SSTI). https://ssti.org/blog/venture-capital-trends-2024
- Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1103890/us-tech-sector-share-of-gdp/
- Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF). https://itif.org/publications/2020/09/28/us-it-and-innovation-foundation-report/
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/industry-output.htm
- CompTIA. https://www.comptia.org/content/research/state-of-the-tech-workforce-2024
- Forrester Research. https://www.forrester.com/report/us-tech-market-forecast-2024/