Both the E-2 visa, and the EB-5 program involve investments in businesses in the United States, but they differ in many areas. One major difference is the non-immigrant vs. immigrant nature of these programs. The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that does not directly lead to a green card or permanent residency. The EB-5 program, on the other hand, is an immigrant visa, which leads to a green card for the investor and the investor’s spouse and children if all requirements are met.

The EB-5 program has specific requirements related to investment amount and job creation, requiring a minimum investment amount of $1 million (or $500,000 in a targeted employment area) and the creation of at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. The E-2 visa does not have a specific investment amount or job creation requirement, making it more flexible for small businesses.

The E-2 visa can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business continues to operate. The EB-5 program, if successful, would generally result in permanent residency (like a green card) for the investor and the investor’s spouse and children.