E-1 Treaty Trader Visa

Table of Contents

• E-1 Treaty Trader Visa
  • What is the E-1 Treaty Trader Visa?
  • Who is Eligible for the E-1 Treaty Trader Visa?
  • What are the Requirements for the E-1 Visa?
  • What are the E-1 Treaty Trader Countries?
  • Which Forms and Documents are Needed for the E-1 Visa?

In this guide, we go over the E-1 Treaty Trader visa, spotlighting its significance as one of the most invaluable immigration services offered by Ochoa & Hill Law Group in Houston, Texas. Our mission extends beyond the procedural aspects; we aim to provide profound insights into the E-1 Treaty Trader visa by providing an overview on eligibility, required forms, and the supporting documents that are necessary to ensure a seamless application process.

What is the E-1 Treaty Trader Visa?

The E-1 Treaty Trader visa is a nonimmigrant visa category custom-tailored for individuals from countries that hold qualifying treaties with the United States. This visa provides an avenue for E-1 applicants to engage in substantial trade activities and help strengthen economic bonds between their home country with the United States. Similar to the E-2 Treaty Investor visa, this nonimmigrant visa category is important for promoting international trade and fostering economic relationships, thereby contributing to global commerce.

Who is Eligible for the E-1 Treaty Trader Visa?

The E-1 Visa caters to individuals actively involved in substantial trade, which encompasses the exchange of goods, services, or technology between their treaty country and the United States. This inclusive category extends to a diverse range of individuals, including business owners, employees, and contributors who play a key role in the trade relationship, thereby fostering economic growth and partnership.

What are the Requirements for the E-1 Visa?

Meeting the basic E-2 Visa requirements involves satisfying criteria outlined in the U.S. Department of State Foreign Affairs Manual¹ (9 FAM 402.9). Some of the requirements for the E-1 Treaty Trader visa include:

1. Treaty Country: A treaty of commerce exists between the U.S. and the E-1 treaty trader applicant’s country. The E-1 Visa is only for individuals from countries that maintain qualifying treaties with the United States.
2. Treaty National: The E-1 treaty trader possesses the nationality of the treaty country.
3. Substantial Trade Activities: To qualify, individuals must be involved in ongoing and significant trade exchanges between their home country and the United States. This may include the exchange of goods, services, technology, or intellectual property.
4. 50 Percent Rule: Over 50% of the total international trade volume must be between the treaty country and the United States.
5. Trader or Employee Status: Traders are individuals involved in directing the trade, while employees work in a supervisory or executive role, or possess essential skills for the trade operations.

What are the E-1 Treaty Trader Countries?

Traders from various treaty countries, including Argentina, Australia, Canada, Italy, and many more, can leverage this E-1 visa opportunity. For a full list of E-1 Treaty Trader countries, visit List of E Treaty Visa Countries: Exploring Trade and Investment Opportunities in the U.S..

Which Forms and Documents are Needed for the E-1 Visa?

To embark on the journey of securing an E-1 Treaty Trader visa, if applying outside of the United States, the E-1 treaty trader applicant will primarily need to complete Forms DS-160 and Form DS-156E, which serves as the Treaty Trader Application. Alongside these forms, the E-1 treaty trader applicant must also provide supporting materials to demonstrate the substantial nature of the trade, which include but are not limited to:

• Business contracts that outline trade agreements and partnerships.
• Financial statements offering a comprehensive view of the economic aspects of the trade relationship.
• Concrete evidence of trade volume, effectively showcasing the extensive trade activities and exchanges.
• Resumé/CV demonstrating essential skills.

It’s important to note that the specific documentation requirements may vary based on individual circumstances and the nature of the trade relationship. Ochoa & Hill Law Group, headquartered in Houston, Texas, stands as your reliable partner, adeptly guiding you through the E-1 Visa application process. Ochoa & Hill Law Group has a deep understanding of business immigration law intricacies, our experienced legal team is committed to helping individuals from treaty nations unlock the opportunities presented by the E-1 Treaty Trader visa.

To ensure a seamless process, consider consulting with our experienced immigration attorneys at Ochoa & Hill Law Group. Contact us at (713) 984-4823 to schedule a consultation.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is not intended as legal advice. Each immigration case is unique, and individuals should seek personalized legal guidance. 

1. U.S. Department of State Foreign Affairs Manual. Last Updated on October 5, 2023.
   9 FAM 402.9: TREATY TRADERS, INVESTORS, AND SPECIALTY OCCUPATIONS – E VISAS ↩︎