1. What are the qualifications for a Treaty Trader or Investor visa (E visa)?

To qualify for an E visa, the applicant must be a national of a country that has a qualifying treaty of trade and commerce with the United States, and be involved in international trade on behalf of the treaty country, or be an investor who has invested, or is actively in the process of investing, a substantial amount of capital in a US business. Additionally, the applicant must demonstrate they are coming to the US to develop and direct the operations of an enterprise in which they have invested, or have control of, or that they are coming to the US to engage in substantial international trade on behalf of the treaty country.

2. How long can a treaty trader or investor visa (E visa) holder remain in the US?

A treaty trader or investor visa (E visa) holder can remain in the US for an initial two-year period of stay and may be eligible for extensions of stay in two-year increments.

3. What documents do I need to submit in order to apply for E Visa?

To apply for an E Visa, you will need to submit the following documents:

1. Valid passport with at least 6 months validity.

2. Recent passport-size photograph.

3. Completed application form with details of your travel plans.

4. Proof of purpose of visit (i.e. invitation letter, hotel booking, tickets to events, etc.).

5. Evidence of financial means to cover the expenses of the trip.

6. Evidence of medical insurance (if required).

4. How much money do I need to invest to qualify for an E Visa?

The minimum investment required to qualify for an E Visa varies depending on the type of E Visa being applied for. Generally, the minimum investment for an E-2 Visa is $100,000 or more, and the minimum investment for an E-1 Visa is $50,000 or more.

5. Are there any restrictions on what types of businesses I can establish on an E Visa?

Yes, there are restrictions on the types of businesses that are eligible for an E Visa. All businesses must be engaged in a “substantial” trade or investment activity with the United States. This includes active participation in the conduct of business operations, such as the creation or expansion of an enterprise, and the development and direction of the enterprise’s essential operations. Additionally, the business must qualify as a “treaty trader,” “treaty investor,” or “treaty entrepreneur” under the relevant treaty of commerce and navigation.

6. Can I bring my family members with me on an E Visa?

No. Family members are not allowed to accompany an E visa holder. The E visa is only for the individual for whom it was issued.

7. What are the steps involved in renewing my E Visa status?

To renew your E Visa status, you will need to complete the following steps:

1. File an Application for Extension of Stay or Change of Status (Form I-539) with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

2. Pay the applicable fees.

3. Wait for the USCIS to issue a receipt notice confirming they received your application.

4. Wait for the USCIS to process your application and issue a decision.

5. If approved, you will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) that will allow you to legally work and stay in the US for another one or two years.

6. File an Application for Renewal of E Visa Status (Form I-129) with the USCIS.

7. Pay the applicable fees.

8. Wait for the USCIS to issue a receipt notice confirming they received your application.

9. Wait for the USCIS to process your application and issue a decision on your renewal request.

8. Are there any special tax rules that apply to E Visa holders?

Yes. E Visa holders are exempt from US Social Security and Medicare taxes. They may also be eligible for certain tax treaty benefits. It is important to consult a qualified tax advisor for additional information concerning these and other potential tax benefits.

9. Is it possible to transfer an existing business to the US on an E Visa?

Yes, it is possible to transfer an existing business to the US on an E Visa. The E visa category is for investors, entrepreneurs, and those who plan to direct and develop international trade in the US. Those who qualify for an E visa may be eligible to purchase a business or transfer an existing business to the US.

10. How long is the processing time to obtain an E Visa?

The processing time for an E Visa typically takes 3-4 business days.

11. What are the requirements for hiring employees on an E Visa?

To be eligible for an E visa, the employee must have a job offer from a U.S. employer in a specialty occupation or as an executive or manager of an approved international business. The visa requires that the employee possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, and have relevant work experience in the specialty field. The U.S. employer must also demonstrate the ability to pay the required wages for the position in question and file the appropriate applications with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

12. Can I extend my stay beyond the expiration date of my E Visa?

No, you cannot extend your stay beyond the expiration date of your E-Visa. Once your visa expires, you must leave the country and reapply for a new E-Visa if you wish to return.

13. Are there any restrictions on how much money I can spend while in the US on an E Visa?

Yes, there are restrictions on how much money you can spend while in the US on an E Visa. You are limited to the amount of money you bring into the US and the amount you can earn while working in the US. In addition, you are also limited to spending only what is necessary for your stay in the US.

14. Can I transfer my Treaty Trader or Investor status to another family member on an E Visa?

Yes, you can transfer your Treaty Trader or Investor status to another family member on an E Visa. If you are a treaty trader or investor, you may be able to transfer your visa classification to another family member. This is known as “derivative E visa classification.” To be eligible for derivative status, your family member must have the same nationality as you, and must be following you to the United States to engage in a similar activity as the one that you are pursuing.

15. What is the difference between a Treaty Trader and Investor visa (E visa) and a standard work visa permit?

A Treaty Trader and Investor visa (E visa) is a nonimmigrant visa specifically granted to citizens of certain countries who are engaging in substantial international trade between the United States and their home country. This visa requires that the applicant has an established business in their home country which furthers the trade between the two countries. By contrast, standard work visas are issued to individuals who seek to enter the United States temporarily in order to work in a specific occupation. These visas require applicants to demonstrate specific qualifications and skills necessary for that occupation.

16. Is there a minimum amount of capital that needs to be invested for an E Visa?

No, the minimum amount of capital that must be invested for an E visa will vary depending on the nature of the business. Each investor must also prove their ability to support themselves and their dependents during their stay in the United States.

17. Is it possible to obtain permanent residence through an E visa?

No, it is not possible to obtain permanent residence through an E visa. An E visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to temporarily enter the US for a specific business purpose, such as trade or investment. The E visa does not permit permanent residency.

18. Are there any restrictions on travel outside of the US while on an E Visa?

Yes. Foreign nationals with an E visa are not allowed to stay in the U.S. for more than two consecutive years, and must leave and re-enter the country every two years. Additionally, travelers must remain in the U.S. in the same category they entered in, meaning E Visa holders cannot shift to another visa status while in the country. Furthermore, travelers must maintain E visa status by engaging in activities consistent with their visa classification and must prove to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers that they are admissible under U.S. immigration law.

19. Do I need to demonstrate proficiency in English when applying for an E Visa?

Yes, applicants for an E Visa must be able to demonstrate that they are proficient in English in order to be eligible. This may be done by providing evidence such as a language test result or a certificate of English proficiency.

20. Are there any special requirements for insurance coverage while on an E Visa?

The requirements for insurance coverage while on an E Visa depend on the country you’re visiting, as well as the type of visa you have. However, in general, it is strongly recommended that you carry health insurance to ensure that if you become ill or injured while abroad, you will be able to receive the necessary medical care. Additionally, some countries may require proof of adequate coverage before they will grant entry or issue the visa. It is therefore important to research the specific immigration policies for the country you are travelling to in order to ensure that you have all of the necessary coverage.