US E1 Visa (Treaty-Trader Visa)

Learn about the US E1 Visa Requirements & E1 Visa Application Process

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e1 visa usa

What is an E1 Visa?

A US E1 Visa, also known as a US Treaty-Trader visa, is a non-immigrant visa document that is issued by the US Department of State and allows foreign nationals from certain countries to conduct commercial trade with entities in the US. The visa holder can work and be paid by US businesses entities.

E1 Visa requirements

Do you have the requirements to be issued a US E1 Visa?

To apply for a US E1 Visa, you must be a national of a treaty country and exhibit substantial international trade, of which at least 50% needs to be with US entities. The trade must support an entity in the visa holder’s country of citizenship, and you must be in an executive/supervisory possession or possess essential skills. E1 visa holders may live in the US, but most only travel for short periods of time.

For questions on your eligibility, contact us now. We would be happy to advise.

US E1 Visa Application

What's involved in applying for an E1 Visa?

To apply for an E1 Visa, you must submit an electronic application and a pdf application. There are several specific requirements that must be met in order to be issued an E1 visa. Lawsorio Consulting will ensure you provide the proper documentation so that you meet all of the necessary requirements for E1 Visa eligibility.
The electronic application requires a filing fee of $315.00 USD. There is also a reciprocity fee, if applicable, which must be paid at the time of visa issuance and is specific to the country of citizenship of the applicant.

These fees are exclusive of business expenses and our fee. You will also have to invest your time in compiling the appropriate supporting documents and travelling to the US Consulate or embassy in your designated region for an in-person interview.

You do not need to submit a business plan to apply for an E1 Visa.

e1 visa processing time

How long does it take to get approved for an E1 Visa?

E1 Visa processing times vary dependent on various factors, but are typically between 2-4 months once the application is submitted to the US Department of State.

E1 visa applicants are required to demonstrate trade exists between the applicant and the US. This can be demonstrated by properly executed contracts binding the parties.
Lawsorio Consulting offers business consultations to help you determine if there is a market for what you want to offer, the best locations for you to target. and how to promote your products or services there.

They will also give you a detailed E1 checklist so you have everything you need ready before applying, so you have the highest chance of being approved for your E1 visa the first time you apply.

USA EI VISA ELIGIBLE BUSINESS TYPES

What types of commercial trade activities require an E1 Visa?

The number of different types of commercial trade activities business owners are allowed to conduct in the US are many and varied and will change over time as new applicants have new business ideas. Lawsorio Consulting will guide you through the entire process so that you have the greatest chance for success.

These are some examples of businesses that commonly require an E1 Visa: 

  • Public speakers/Authors
  • Coaches
  • Social medial influencers
  • Manufacturing
  • Retail
  • Engineers
  • Photographers
  • Consultants


This list is not exhaustive. Contact us to find out if the commercial trade you want to conduct in the US qualifies to apply for the E1 Visa.

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