E1 Treaty Trader Visa for Business Owners and Companies
The E1 Treaty Trader Visa allows foreign business owners and companies from treaty countries to enter and operate in the United States based on substantial international trade with the US.
This visa is designed for businesses engaged in ongoing trade activities, not for individuals seeking jobs or employment in the United States.
Who the E1 Treaty Trader Visa Is For
The E1 visa is suitable for:
- Foreign business owners engaged in international trade with the United States
- Companies conducting regular trade between a treaty country and the US
- Entrepreneurs operating trading businesses that rely on cross border commerce
- Organizations whose primary business activity involves trade in goods or services
The visa holder must be an owner, executive, or key decision maker of the trading business.
Important Clarification
The E1 Treaty Trader Visa is not a job visa. It does not allow individuals to work for unrelated US employers. It does not provide job placement or employment sponsorship. This visa is strictly for business owners and companies actively engaged in international trade with the United States.
E1 Treaty Trader Visa
Eligibility Requirements
Treaty Country
Nationality
Substantial Trade
with the United States
Principal Trade
with the United States
Qualifying Trade Activities
Trade may include but is not limited to:
Goods and merchandise
Technology and software
International transportation
Tourism related services
Banking and financial services
Insurance & communications
Ownership and Control
The trading business must be at least 50 percent owned by nationals of the treaty country.
The visa applicant must be coming to the United States in an executive, supervisory, or essential role related to the trading business.
E1 Treaty Trader Visa
Duration and Extensions
Initial Visa Validity
The length of the E1 visa depends on the treaty country. Many E1 visas are issued for multiple years.
Extensions of Stay
E1 status may be extended in increments of up to 2 years as long as the business continues to meet all E1 requirements.
There is no maximum limit on the number of extensions, provided eligibility is maintained.
Family Members
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may accompany the principal visa holder.
Spouses may apply for employment authorization in the United States. Children are not permitted to work.
How We Help with the E1 Treaty Trader Visa
We assist business owners and companies at every stage of the E1 visa process.
Business Eligibility Assessment
We evaluate whether your trade volume, structure, and ownership meet E1 requirements.
Trade Documentation Strategy
We help organize and present trade records, contracts, invoices, and financial evidence required for approval.
Legal Preparation and Filing
We prepare visa applications and supporting documentation in accordance with US immigration regulations.
Consular or Change of Status Guidance
We guide applicants through consular processing or change of status procedures depending on their situation.
Ongoing Compliance Support
We advise on maintaining E1 status, renewals, and business changes.
Operate a Trading Business in the United States
If you are a business owner or company from a treaty country engaged in international trade with the United States, the E1 Treaty Trader Visa may be the right option.
Speak with a US business immigration attorney to evaluate your eligibility and business structure.
Why Business Owners Choose Us for E1 Visas
We focus exclusively on business and organization based US immigration matters.
- Business focused legal analysis
- Clear explanation of E1 trade requirements
- Compliance driven filings
- Long term business planning support
Our goal is to help companies maintain lawful and sustainable US operations through proper visa strategy.