Advantages of E1/E2 Visa
There are a few subtle differences between the E1 and E2 visas. In the case of the E1 visa, treaty trader applicants must be a citizen of the country from which they are applying. On the other hand, the E2 visa offers a broader scope ….
Continue reading -
Businesses are always trying to find new ways to expand their reach and one way to do so is to branch out into different countries. This, of course, requires you to go through the process of obtaining a visa that allows you to conduct business in that country. In the United States, you’ll need to have one of the two E Visas, which are among the most common visas in America. These visas allow for trade and investment between countries and are especially important for businesses that wish to expand beyond their borders. There are two classifications of the E visas- E1 visa, Nonimmigrant Treaty Traders, which is reserved for treaty traders and E2 visa, Nonimmigrant Treaty Investors, which is for treaty investors. In order to qualify for either an E1 or E2 visa, the applicant must be from a U.S. Department of State treaty country. While some countries qualify for both types of E visas, others only qualify for one type.
What Are the Differences?
There are a few subtle differences between the E1 and E2 visas. In the case of the E1 visa, treaty trader applicants must be a citizen of the country from which they are applying. On the other hand, the E2 visa offers a broader scope as the investor, which can be an individual, partnership or a corporate entity must be a citizen of a treaty country. At least 50% of the international trade involved must be between the United States and the treaty country in order to qualify for an E1 visa while with the E2 visa, it must be proven that the investment has significant income or have a significant impact on the US economy.
What are the Advantages of Each?
The E1 visa allows you to stay for extended periods of time within the US as well as travel freely in and out of the US. You are granted unlimited two year extensions as long as you maintain your E1 qualifications. The E1 visa also allows you to bring your dependents and your spouse, who can work as well, to the United States. Similarly, the E2 visa allows for free travel in and out of the US, prolonged stay with two year extensions once the E2 criteria are maintained. Your spouse can also accompany you and work while living in the states. In addition to dependents, you can also bring other family members to the States with you.
One of the greatest limitations of both of the E visas is that you can only work for the employer or business that acted as your sponsor when you originally applied for the visa. Additionally, while the visas allow for unlimited extensions, because they are only approved for a two-year period, the extension process can be onerous.
If you’re going through the process of applying for either an E1 or E2 visa and need further assistance, reach out to us as we’re happy to help. We can also assist you in applying for an extension, or deciding which E visa best suits your needs. Send us a message or give us a call so we can start your process today!