Are you planning to do business in the United States temporarily? It is important to know the relevant US Business Visas available to choose the best option.
For nonimmigrants, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offer the E-1 and E-2 Visas. These visas are available to the citizens of countries that have a treaty of trade, commerce, or navigation with the United States.
What Is the E-1 Visa?
The E-1 Visa allows individuals or employees of an organization to enter the US to carry out trade. The main requirement of this visa is that the applicant must enter the US to engage in “substantial trade.” Also, the applicant must enter the US temporarily to return at the end of their authorized stay.
What Are the Requirements for the E-1 Visa?
To be eligible for an E-1 visa, the applicant must:
- Demonstrate that at least 50% of the trade activity was between the US and the treaty country
- Must engage in Substantial Trade
- Must be a national of one of the treaty countries
- Engage in trade in the form of transportation of goods or services, including banking, insurance, tourism, technology, or journalism
- Intend to return to their home country
What Is the E-2 Visa?
The E-2 Visa is available to the citizens and nationals of over 30+ countries that have a trade treaty with the US. This visa allows noncitizens to establish or invest in a business in the US. Although it is a nonimmigrant visa, it can be extended indefinitely.
