E-1 Visa: Treaty Traders

The E-1 Treaty Trader Visa allows nationals from treaty countries to enter the U.S. to engage in substantial trade (goods, services, technology) between the U.S. and their home country, for themselves and key employees, requiring the business to be at least 50% owned by treaty nationals and over 50% of trade to be U.S.-treaty country specific, with initial grants up to two years and renewals possible as long as trade is ongoing. 

Key Requirements & Eligibility

• Nationality: You must be a national of a country with a treaty of commerce and navigation with the U.S. 
• Substantial Trade: The business must conduct a large volume and continuous flow of trade between the U.S. and your treaty country. 
• Ownership: At least 50% of the business must be owned by nationals of the treaty country. 
• Role: You must be coming to the U.S. to supervise or perform executive duties, or possess unique skills essential to the business (not ordinary labor). 

What Qualifies as "Trade"?

• Goods, services (like banking, insurance, media, tech), tourism, and transportation. 

Application & Duration

• Application: Apply at a U.S. Embassy/Consulate abroad, or file Form I-129 for a change of status if already in the U.S. in lawful status. 
• Initial Stay: Typically granted for up to two years. 
• Renewals: Can be renewed indefinitely for up to two years at a time, as long as requirements are met, with intent to depart the U.S. 

Family Members

• Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may also be granted E-1 status (E-1S for spouse).