The U.S. Trader Visa, specifically the E-1 visa, facilitates international trade by allowing individuals from treaty countries to engage in substantial trade activities with the United States. This visa is designed to promote economic partnerships and mutual benefits between the U.S. and its treaty partners. It enables qualified traders to enter the U.S. to oversee and direct trade operations, enhancing international commerce and cultural exchange. The E-1 visa underscores the U.S.’s commitment to fostering strong trade relationships while offering eligible traders the opportunity to play a pivotal role in promoting global business connections.
US Treaty Trader Visa Categories
There are two types of trader visas, the E1 Treaty Trader Visa and the E2 Treaty Investor Visa stand distinct. This categorization is predicated upon the presence of treaties encompassing companionship, trade, navigation, bilateral investment, or other agreements between the United States and other nations.
E2 Treaty Investor Visa
The E2 Treaty Investor Visa is designed to allow foreign nationals from countries that have established treaties with the United States to engage in trade endeavors. These visas do not necessitate approval from the INS (Immigration and Naturalization Service), yet a trading relationship exceeding 50 percent between the two countries is a requisite. When adjudicating these visas, several factors are taken into account, including the generation of employment opportunities within the United States and the prospective potential for business expansion.
Obtaining an E1/E2 Visa
Each visa application must be meticulously documented with substantial evidence attesting to the fulfillment of all stipulated requirements. The initial treaty application is assessed by the US embassy, while subsequent processing is overseen by the Citizenship and Immigration Center. Upon acquiring this visa, a foreign national can also act as a sponsor for dependents. Subsequently, sponsored spouses possess the opportunity to pursue approval for residing in the United States.
An E-1 visa is available to a foreign national under the following eligibility criteria:
Treaty Nation Affiliation: The foreign national or the associated company hails from a country that has established a treaty with the United States.
Substantial Trade: A trading relationship between the treaty nation and the US must exceed 50 percent of the total trade volume.
Sole Trade Engagement: The applicant is required to enter the United States with the sole purpose of engaging in trade-related activities.
Dependent Status: The individual seeking the visa may qualify if they are a dependent of an investor or an employer.
Visa duration
The duration of stay for E1 and E2 visa holders is initially granted for up to five years, commonly issued in increments of two years at a time.
The primary categories for United States Treaty Visas is as follows:
E1 Treaty Visa
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The E-1 Treaty Trader Visa is a type of non-immigrant visa issued by the United States to individuals from treaty nations who wish to engage in substantial trade activities between their home country and the United States. Here’s some more detailed information about the E-1 Treaty Trader Visa:
Purpose of the E-1 Visa:
The E-1 Treaty Trader Visa is designed to facilitate and promote international trade between the United States and the treaty nation. It allows individuals, as well as employees of qualifying companies, to enter the U.S. to carry out trade activities. This could include activities such as trade of goods, services, technology, or international banking.
The E1 Treaty Trader Visa provides the following privileges:
It’s important to note that the privileges and restrictions of the E1 Treaty Trader Visa are subject to US immigration regulations and may vary based on individual circumstances.
Application Process:
Applying for an E-1 Treaty Trader Visa involves several steps, including submitting the necessary documentation, completing the required forms, and attending a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Duration and Extensions:
The initial period of stay granted under an E-1 Visa varies based on the reciprocity agreements with the applicant’s home country. Extensions are possible, and there is no set limit to the number of extensions an individual can receive. However, the trade and essential role requirements must continue to be met.
Type | Consular fee USD | Notes |
---|---|---|
Treaty Investors E-1 Visa | $250 | The fee covers only the visa applicant (per person). |
Additional costs if applicable | Variables |
---|---|
Police Clearance | Depending on nationality and Local Government rules |
Traffic Record Variable | (Depending on the state of Residence and the licence issuance) |
Medical Examination | Depending on the type of medical tests and examinations Required
|
Translation /certification Of documents fees | Variable depending on the translator
|
Business investment costs | Business Investment Costs: In addition to the visa application fee, you should consider the costs associated with establishing and running the business you plan to invest in. This can include capital investments, operational expenses, and other business-related costs. |
Visa Online Express Processing fee | Total |
---|---|
E1 Treaty Investor Visa | $8,600 |
E2 Treaty Investor Visa
The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa offers a pathway for individuals from nations with established trade treaties with the United States to enter the country with the intention of establishing and cultivating a business venture. Unlike some other visa categories, INS (Immigration and Naturalization Service) approval is not a prerequisite for obtaining these visas. However, a substantial investment is a key requirement for eligibility.
When evaluating applications for E-2 visas, various factors are taken into account, including the creation of job opportunities within the United States and the potential for future business expansion. This holistic assessment contributes to the decision-making process.
The E-2 visa is accessible not only to the principal investor but also extends to essential employees associated with the enterprise. Notably, there exists no predetermined limit on the number of years an individual can hold E-2 Treaty Investor status. As a result, it is conceivable to maintain this status for an extended period, thus offering flexibility and continuity to investors and their business endeavors.
You are permitted an initial stay of up to two years in the USA. Additionally, you have the freedom to travel, work, and reside in the USA. You have the option to extend your stay in two-year increments indefinitely, as long as your E2 status remains valid. Furthermore, you have the privilege of bringing your dependents (spouse and unmarried children under 21) to reside with you in the United States. The dependents of an E2 visa holder are also eligible to pursue studies in the USA.
Eligibility Criteria:
E-2 Treaty Investor Visas are exclusively available to individuals or companies from the following countries:
Please note that this list is based on the information provided and may be subject to change or updates. It’s important to verify the current list of eligible countries from official sources before making any visa-related decisions.
Application Process:
Applying for an E-1 Treaty Trader Visa involves several steps, including submitting the necessary documentation, completing the required forms, and attending a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Duration and Extensions:
The initial period of stay granted under an E-1 Visa varies based on the reciprocity agreements with the applicant’s home country. Extensions are possible, and there is no set limit to the number of extensions an individual can receive. However, the trade and essential role requirements must continue to be met.
Expenses for obtaining E2 Treaty Investor Visa
Type | Consular fee USD | Notes |
---|---|---|
Treaty Investors E-2 Visa | $270 | The fee covers only the visa applicant (per person). |
Additional costs if applicable | Variables |
---|---|
Police Clearance | Depending on nationality and Local Govt rules |
Traffic Record Variable | (depending on the state of Residence and the licence issuance) |
Medical Examination | Depending on the type of medical tests and examinations Required
|
Translation /certification Of documents fees | Variable depending on the translator
|
Business investment costs | Business Investment Costs: In addition to the visa application fee, you should consider the costs associated with establishing and running the business you plan to invest in. This can include capital investments, operational expenses, and other business-related costs. |
Visa Online Express Processing fee | Total |
---|---|
E2 Treaty Investor Visa | $8,600 |
By choosing Visa Online Express, you will benefit from the best United States visa advice and comprehensive support throughout your visa application process, as we have a team of highly experienced United states visa and immigration experts at your disposal.
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