✈️ E-1 & E-2 Visa Overview:
The Treaty Trader (E-1) and Treaty Investor (E-2) visas allow nationals of certain countries to come to the United States to engage in trade or manage a business investment.
These visas are only available to citizens of countries that have a qualifying treaty of commerce and navigation with the U.S.
📦 What Is an E-1 Treaty Trader Visa?
The E-1 visa is for individuals who will engage in substantial trade between the United States and their home country.
✅ E-1 Visa Requirements
To qualify for an E-1 visa, you must:
- Be a citizen of a treaty country
- Work for or own a business that is at least 50% owned by nationals of the same treaty country
- Show that the trade is substantial, meaning it involves:
- A large volume of transactions
- Regular and continuous trade activity
- Prove that more than 50% of the trade is between the U.S. and your treaty country
- Be involved in international trade (goods, services, or technology), where ownership or title passes from one party to another
- Hold an executive, supervisory, or essential skills role — general labor or unskilled positions do not qualify
💼 What Is an E-2 Treaty Investor Visa?
The E-2 visa is for individuals investing a substantial amount of capital into a U.S. business and coming to develop and direct that business.
✅ E-2 Visa Requirements
To qualify for an E-2 visa, you must:
- Be a citizen of a treaty country
- Personally invest, or represent a company that has invested, in a real and active U.S. business
- Own at least 50% of the business, or have operational control through a management position or other means
- Make a substantial investment:
- The amount must be enough to ensure the success of the business
- A larger percentage is expected for lower-cost ventures
- Show the investment is not marginal:
- The business should do more than just support the investor and family
- It should create jobs or have a positive economic impact in the U.S.
- Be at risk financially — meaning funds are committed and subject to loss
- Be coming to the U.S. to develop and manage the business
- If not the principal investor, you must be in an executive, supervisory, or specialized skill role
⚠️ Passive investments (like real estate or stocks) and uncommitted funds do not qualify.
📝 Proving E-Visa Eligibility
Whether applying for an E-1 or E-2 visa, you must first show that the business or investment:
- Meets all legal requirements under U.S. immigration law
- Complies with E-visa classification rules
- Demonstrates the proper ownership structure, trade activity, or investment funding
A U.S. consular officer will evaluate your application and make the final decision.
🌎 Do You Qualify? Start with a Treaty Country
Not all countries are eligible. To qualify for an E-1 or E-2 visa, your home country must have a valid treaty of commerce with the U.S.
➡️ Check the official list of E-visa treaty countries here
💬 Need Help With Your E-1 or E-2 Visa Application?
Whether you’re a business owner looking to invest in the U.S. or an entrepreneur managing international trade, the E-visa process is complex and highly document-driven.
📞 Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and receive tailored guidance on building a strong E-1 or E-2 visa application.
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Last Revision: March 2025.