When investment funds come from several sales, the final balance is only the endpoint. Build a source-and-path explanation that preserves each relevant transaction while assessing what is actually committed to the enterprise.
Create a source index before a combined total
Hypothetical example: equipment-sale proceeds and liquidated financial investments are transferred into one account. Identify each asset, relevant ownership evidence, completed sale, liabilities and transfer. Separate a projected selling price from proceeds already received. The source index should let the reviewer follow the real history without guessing which deposit came from which transaction.
Classify financing and commitments accurately
Identify any loan and its security. Personally secured or unsecured borrowing may qualify under applicable E-2 rules; enterprise-asset-secured debt does not count as the investor’s qualifying investment. Read escrow and cancellation terms alongside payment records. A consolidated transfer does not change the treatment of its components or prove that all funds are irrevocably committed.
Complete the enterprise analysis
Review qualifying treaty nationality, ownership and control, substantiality, a real nonmarginal enterprise and the role developing and directing it. No universal fixed E-2 minimum applies. A well-traced balance does not establish all these requirements. Before relying on an opening date, assess both the transaction and the applicant’s actual authorization for intended U.S. activities.
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.