If you’re a New Zealand entrepreneur or investor dreaming of immigrating from New Zealand to the U.S. and expanding your future, the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa provides a powerful path to legally live and work in the U.S. — all while building or purchasing your own business. At Truforte Business Group, we specialize in helping international clients, including those from New Zealand, successfully buy Florida-based businesses that qualify for the E-2 visa.
Whether you’re looking for a lifestyle upgrade, business opportunity, or a way to bring your family into a thriving U.S. economy, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
What Is the E-2 Visa?
The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows citizens of treaty countries—including New Zealand—to enter and work in the United States based on a substantial investment in a U.S. business. While it doesn’t lead directly to a green card, the E-2 visa is renewable indefinitely, as long as the business remains active and meets visa requirements.
This visa is particularly attractive because it allows:
- Spouses to apply for work authorization
- Children under 21 to attend school
- Flexible renewals, as long as the business is operational
- Entry into the U.S. for business development and management
Why New Zealand Citizens Qualify
New Zealand became eligible for the E-2 visa after the U.S.-New Zealand trade treaty came into effect. This treaty status makes it easier for Kiwi nationals to make qualifying investments and obtain a long-term U.S. visa.
For investors ready to make the move, Florida stands out as a top destination for its business-friendly environment, tax advantages, and high quality of life.
Florida: The Perfect Place to Start Your American Dream
Many New Zealand investors choose Florida for its warm climate, strategic location, and booming economy. The state has no personal income tax and offers a diverse range of industries, including:
- Hospitality and tourism
- Health and wellness
- Real estate and construction
- Transportation and logistics
- Retail and service businesses
With its vibrant international community and strong demand for small businesses, Florida presents exceptional opportunities for E-2 visa investors.
E-2 Visa Requirements for New Zealand Citizens
To qualify for the E-2 visa, New Zealand applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: You must be a New Zealand citizen.
- Investment: You must make a “substantial investment” in a U.S. business. While there is no fixed dollar amount, most successful applications involve an investment of $100,000 USD or more.
- Active Business: The business must be real and operational—not a passive investment.
- Ownership: You must own at least 50% of the business or have operational control.
- Marginality: The business must generate enough income to support you and your family (beyond minimal living).
- Intent to Depart: You must plan to leave the U.S. when your visa expires or is terminated (though it can be renewed indefinitely).
How Truforte Business Group Helps E-2 Visa Investors
Navigating the U.S. business market can be challenging without the right partner. That’s where Truforte Business Group excels. We offer expert assistance to international buyers looking to acquire businesses in Florida, ensuring a smooth process from start to finish.
Our services include:
- Access to hundreds of Florida businesses for sale that qualify for the E-2 visa
- Confidential buyer representation to protect your identity and interests
- Connections to immigration attorneys and financial advisors experienced in E-2 visa cases
- Assistance with due diligence, negotiations, and closing
- Guidance on how to operate and manage your U.S. business post-acquisition
We’ve helped clients from all over the world—now we’re ready to help New Zealand investors like you take the next step.
Popular E-2 Visa Business Opportunities
Some of the most sought-after Florida businesses that align with E-2 visa requirements include:
- Cafés and restaurants
- Landscaping and cleaning services
- Daycare centers
- Retail stores
- Franchise operations
- HVAC and service-related businesses
Whether you’re looking for a hands-on business or something that allows semi-passive management, we’ll help you find the right fit based on your goals, skills, and budget.
Steps to Immigrate from New Zealand to the U.S. via the E-2 Visa
Here’s what the process typically looks like for a New Zealand E-2 investor:
- Consult with Truforte Business Group to find a qualifying Florida business.
- Form a U.S. business entity (typically an LLC or corporation).
- Transfer investment funds and begin the acquisition process.
- Work with an immigration attorney to prepare your E-2 visa application.
- Submit your application through the U.S. Consulate in Auckland or elsewhere.
- Relocate to Florida to manage your business and begin your new life.
Let’s Start Your Journey
Truforte Business Group has the knowledge, listings, and network to help you confidently begin the process of immigrating from New Zealand to the U.S. by pursuing the E-2 visa. Whether you’re just starting your research or ready to begin, our team is here to guide you with clarity, confidentiality, and care.
Contact Truforte Business Group today for a free consultation, or browse our current list of Florida businesses for sale that qualify for the E-2 visa.