E-1 Treaty Trader Visa
Nonimmigrant visa for nationals of treaty countries engaged in substantial trade between their home country and the United States.
~5,800
Annual Issuance
Up to 5 years
Maximum Duration
No cap
Annual Cap
What is the E-1 Visa?
The E-1 visa allows nationals of countries that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States to enter and work in the U.S. to carry on substantial trade. Trade must be principally between the U.S. and the treaty country, and must be substantial in volume and continuous. The visa is ideal for businesses with established import/export operations or service-based trade relationships.
Eligibility Requirements
Application Process
Establish or document existing substantial trade between the U.S. and treaty country
Gather evidence of trade volume, frequency, and continuity
Complete Form DS-160 and compile supporting documents
Apply at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the treaty country
Attend visa interview with trade documentation
Duration of Stay
Up to 5 years, renewable indefinitely
Frequently Asked Questions
QWhat is the difference between the E-1 and E-2 visa?
The E-1 visa is for treaty traders engaged in substantial trade between the U.S. and their treaty country, while the E-2 visa is for treaty investors who invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business. E-1 focuses on trade activity, E-2 focuses on investment.
QWhat counts as trade for the E-1 visa?
Trade includes the exchange of goods, services, banking, insurance, transportation, tourism, technology transfer, and certain news-gathering activities. The trade must be substantial in volume and consist of numerous transactions over time, not just a single transaction.
QCan an E-1 visa holder apply for a Green Card?
Yes, E-1 visa holders can apply for a Green Card through employer sponsorship or other qualifying categories. However, the E-1 is a nonimmigrant visa that requires intent to depart, so pursuing a Green Card requires careful planning to avoid issues with dual intent.
Related Visa Types
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
Investor visa for nationals of treaty countries who invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business.
L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa
Visa for employees transferring from a foreign office to a U.S. office of the same company.
H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa
Work visa for professionals in specialty occupations requiring a bachelor's degree or higher.
Related Immigration Forms
Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application
Required online application for all nonimmigrant visa applicants at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.
Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker
Filed by U.S. employers to petition for a foreign worker to come to or remain in the U.S. temporarily in a nonimmigrant worker classification.
Arrival/Departure Record
Documents a traveler's arrival and authorized stay period in the United States.
Engaged in international trade with the U.S.?
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