Both the EB-5 program and the E-2 visa allow foreign nationals to invest in U.S. businesses, but they have major differences in requirements, benefits, and long-term immigration outcomes. 

The EB-5 visa is an immigrant visa (it provides a direct path to a green card and permanent residency), while the E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa (it only grants temporary stay with no direct green card pathway).

EB-5 investors must invest at least $1.05 million or $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area and create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers within two years. 

The E-2 visa has no fixed investment minimums, but states the amount has to be substantial (typically $100k-$150k) and must be in a business where the investor has at least 50% ownership or control.

The E-2 visa is only available to nationals of treaty countries, while the EB-5 visa is open to all nationalities. E-2 visas can be renewed indefinitely but won’t lead to a green card unless the investor later qualifies for another immigrant visa.

The EB-5 is ultimately better for investors seeking permanent U.S. residency, while the E-2 is better for those looking for a flexible, renewable visa to run a U.S. business.