Treaty Trader Visa (E-1)

The Treaty Trader visa allows nationals from countries which have trade treaties in effect with the U.S. to enter the U.S. for the purpose of conducting trade between the U.S. and the country of majority ownership of the trading company. The majority ownership of the trading company must be by a treaty country. The trading company must be involved in substantial trade which is principally between the U.S. and the treaty country. The employee must be of the same treaty country, and the employee must be serving the company in either a managerial capacity or possessing an “essential skill”.

There is no numerical cap on years and it is possible to remain in Treaty Trader status for many years. The treaty trader must always be prepared to establish to the consular officer that he intends to return abroad upon completion of his venture and will have his status cancelled if he is unable to do so.

Requirements:

1. Business Plan outlining future investment scheme
2. Substantial trade principally between the U.S. and the treaty country
3. Documentation regarding majority ownership of company, type of trade involved, volume of trade, and percentage of trade between the U.S. operation and treaty country
4. Duties and qualifications of the individual

The following is a list of information and documents required in order to prepare and process the E-1 visa application:

1. Articles of Incorporation for the U.S. corporation
2. Minutes of the corporation showing officers, directors, and shareholders
3. Share Certificates
4. Proof of “Substantial Trade”
5. Canceled checks
6. Invoices showing purchase of merchandise and fixtures
7. Contracts, Bills of Sale and Bills of Lading showing regular import/export between the U.S. and Treaty Country
8. Lease for the premises of corporation and occupational license
9. Employer’s Quarterly Tax & Wage Report, showing number of employees
10. Latest financial statement and tax return, together with statement from the accountant, certifying the approximate percentage of trade between the U.S. and the Treaty Country
11. Copy of Passport and I-94
12. Sample brochures, product photos, office photos, price lists, and other evidence which will convincingly show that the U.S. company is engaged in substantial trade

Our firm provides all the necessary services to assist international business partners who engage in trade with the United States to qualify for E-1 visa approval.

Disclaimer: The information on this page does not constitute legal advice. Please contact the firm for an explanation concerning how you should use the information we have provided and for other important information.