Terms & Definitions

The E-1 visa, also known as the Treaty Trader visa, allows nationals of certain treaty countries to enter the U.S. to direct and develop substantial trade between their home country and the U.S. It also allows certain employees of a qualifying trader or organization to obtain the same classification.

To qualify, you must:

• Be a national of a country that has a qualifying treaty with the U.S.
• Engage in substantial and ongoing trade between the U.S. and your home country.
• Conduct principal trade (more than 50%) with the U.S.
• Work in an executive or essential role in the trading business.
• Ensure the business is majority-owned by nationals of the treaty country.

Trade can include goods, services, banking, insurance, transportation, technology transfer, and more. The spouse and minor children of E-1 employees may obtain visas to accompany the visa holder; spouses are permitted to work in the U.S. incident to E-2S status. 

For assistance with your E-1 petition or other immigration matters, please contact our office.