The purpose of the E1 Treaty Trader Visa is to promote trade and economic relations between the US and nations with which it has trade agreements. It enables nationals of certain countries, such as Canada, the UK, Japan, and Germany, to supervise and participate in trade-related activities within the United States.
To be eligible, candidates must demonstrate that a significant portion of their company operations includes trade between the United States and their country of origin. This visa is intended for company owners or staff members who oversee investments and trade transactions.
The E1 Visa offers numerous advantages, including:
- Legal authorization to work in the United States.
- Unrestricted entry and exit into the US.
- Renewable status for up to two years at a time, indefinitely.
- Dependent children can attend school, and spouses can apply for employment authorization (the Employment Authorization Document, or EAD) if the primary visa holder has E1 status.
The trade in question must be regarded as significant. Substantial trade is defined as “sufficient to ensure a continuous flow” between the United States and the treaty country. Consular officials will consider the quantity of transactions rather than the dollar amount when awarding E1 visas.
A majority of the trade volume conducted by the treaty trader must be between the United States and the treaty country, meaning 50% or more of the total trade volume must be between the two countries.
To obtain an E1 Treaty Trader Visa, one must:
- Verify eligibility based on citizenship in a country that has a treaty with the United States.
- Show that there is substantial trade between the two countries.
- Submit Form DS-156E and supporting documentation to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Undergo a visa interview.
- Receive permission to carry out trade-related activities in the country.
Examples of trade activities that may meet these requirements include:
- Managing transportation or shipping logistics.
- Transferring technology or technical expertise.
- Participating in construction projects or offering architectural services.
- Operating retail or wholesale businesses involving trade betwee
Immigration Insights provided by Heta Thakar , LLM (Business Law)- Legal Administrative Manager , WWICS Canada Inc.