Usually wait for the records that establish origin, because the funding trail is normally examined closely and a thin explanation invites follow-up. Waiting is a judgement about strength, not a rule. Order older statements early, since banks can take weeks. Processing and appointment times are not guaranteed, so build the schedule with room.
Sequence the record requests before the lease commitments
Reconstructing several years of transfers across two countries takes longer than most plans allow. Start the requests before signing leases or ordering equipment that assume a date. Canadian citizens generally need an E-2 visa, and visa validity is separate from the period of stay granted at admission. Keep the intention to depart when status ends visible in decisions about long-term commitments at home.
Set milestones instead of a promised finish date: cap table confirmed, option reviewed, funding trail assembled, packet checked. Negotiate an opening date with the franchisor that allows for visa processing, and do not start operating from the United States before issuance. Book the consular appointment once the executed documents and the money trail are complete; check current appointment availability at the post, since waits vary.
Set dates for the segment rebuild, the adviser's review, and the final packet, then treat government steps as outside your control: no processing time or outcome can be guaranteed.