How does the E1 Visa work?

The E1 visa for Treaty Traders allows nationals from countries that maintain an appropriate treaty of commerce and navigation with the U.S., to enter the U.S. to conduct trade between the U.S. and their home country.

Is it easy to get E1 visa?

Getting an E-1 visa in 2020 requires relatively few steps on account of the fact that qualified applicants can self-petition and do not need an employer or a Labor Condition Application. This means that all you need to do to begin the process is file an I-129 petition with the USCIS.

Who is eligible for E1 visa?

To qualify for a Treaty Trader (E-1) Visa You must be a citizen of a treaty country. The trading firm for which you plan to come to the United States must have the nationality of the treaty country, meaning persons with the treaty country’s nationality must own at least 50 percent of the enterprise.

What do you need for E1?

Documents Required for an E1 Visa Form DS-156E for nonimmigrant investor applications. A copy of your passport (should be valid 6 months beyond your stay) Color ID photograph showing your full face. Proof of one year’s worth of trading activity.

How much money do I need for E1 visa?

Normally a minimum investment of $100,000 will be required, although this may be reduced in the event that a certain business simply does not require such an investment. An absolute bare minimum of $75,000 will likely be required, although the rules envisage that $50,000 may be suitable in certain circumstances.

Can spouse work on E1 visa?

An E-1 visa may also cover immediate family (legal spouse and unmarried children under 21). The spouse of the visa holder is permitted to work, but the children are not.

How long does E1 visa take?

between two and four weeks
The E1 visa processing time depends on the caseload of the US Embassy or USCIS if you applied from within the US. However, the estimated processing time is between two and four weeks from the time you file your application.

What is the difference between E1 and E2 visa?

The E visas promote trade and investment between countries. The E1 visa is reserved for treaty traders and E2 visas is for treaty investors. However, some countries have only a treaty trader or treaty investor agreement with the United States.

How do I extend my E1 visa?

The US allows E1 visa holders unlimited extensions as long as they meet the E1 visa criteria and show continuous intent to return to their home country. To file for an extension, you must file Form I-129 and Form I-539, Application to Extend or Change Status.

How long does an E1 visa last?

E1 Visa valid indefinitely as long as trade is ongoing with the U.S. It is issued in two to five year increments and is renewable. Spouse and minor children can accompany trader into U.S. Spouse can obtain work authorization from USCIS to work anywhere.

Can E 2 visa attend school?

Yes, the dependents of E-2 visa holders can study freely in the United States without seeking further approval. Children may attend public or private school, while spouses may attend any level of schooling. Children must apply for an F-1 student visa if they wish to continue studying after the age of 21.

How long does it take to get an E1 visa?

The E1 visa processing time depends on the caseload of the US Embassy or USCIS if you applied from within the US. However, the estimated processing time is between two and four weeks from the time you file your application.