E-1 — Treaty Trader

The E-1 is a US nonimmigrant visa for nationals of treaty countries to conduct substantial bilateral trade. Trade must be in goods, services, or technology, with over 50% flowing between the US and the treaty country. Employees require a supervisory, executive, or specialized-skills role.

Admission is for 2 years, extendable in 2-year increments indefinitely while qualifying trade continues. No job offer is required for the principal trader; the visa offers no PR pathway and dual intent is not permitted. Spouses are admitted as E-1S dependents and are employment authorized incident to status.

This visa is ideal for traders, executives, and essential employees from treaty countries running or working for businesses with a documented, ongoing US bilateral trade flow.