This visa allows individuals to enter the U.S. to engage in substantial trade between their home country and the U.S.

The E-1 visa is ideal for business owners, executives, and employees involved in international trade of goods, services, or technology. For example, a business owner who imports or exports products between their home country and the U.S. may qualify for this visa. The trade must be continuous and substantial, with over 50% of the international trade occurring between the U.S. and the treaty country.

How to Apply for the E-1 Visa

For Traders and Business Owners:

Before applying, the company must be registered with the E-Visa Unit. Once the registration is reviewed and approved, the trader will be given an interview date at the relevant U.S. embassy or consulate.

For Employees of E-1 Registered Companies:

Employees must schedule their own interview. It is sufficient to bring the required documents on the day of the interview; there is no need to submit them in advance.

Applying from Within the United States (Change of Status)

Step 1: Submit Form I-129 The applicant or their U.S. employer must complete and submit the Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker), along with all supporting documents, to USCIS.

Step 2: Attend Biometrics Appointment USCIS will issue a notice (Form I-797C) with the date and location of your biometric appointment. Fingerprints, a photograph, and a signature will be collected.

Step 3: Interview (If Required) USCIS may request an interview, which will be scheduled by mail or online.

Step 4: Decision Notification You will be informed of USCIS’s decision via mail or online notice.

Applying Through a U.S. Embassy or Consulate

Step 1: Complete the DS-160 Form Start by submitting the DS-160 form online.

Step 2: Schedule and Attend the Interview Once the form is submitted, schedule your interview. Be prepared to discuss your business, trade activity, and how your company qualifies under E-1 visa requirements. Bring all necessary documents and a printed DS-160 confirmation page.

Step 3: Notification of Decision If your visa is approved, it will be placed in your passport and mailed to your address. You may receive immediate confirmation after the interview or later via email.

Review Process by the E-Visa Unit

Once your application is submitted and received, the E-Visa Unit will begin the review. A confirmation email will be sent to you or your attorney. Applications are reviewed in the order received and typically take 60 business days.

After the review is complete, you will receive:

• Confirmation of completion,
• A list of any additional required documents,
• Interview scheduling instructions.

Note: You must attend the interview within 90 days of this notification. Applications will not be held beyond that period.

Important Reminders

• The DS-160 confirmation number in your online appointment profile must match your DS-160 application number.
• Bring a printed DS-160 confirmation page to your interview.
• As of August 27, 2024, mismatched or missing DS-160 confirmations will result in denial of entry to the interview.

Why Choose the E-1 Visa?

The E-1 visa provides an excellent opportunity for international traders to establish or expand their commercial presence in the United States. It enables foreign nationals to legally conduct trade operations, manage U.S. branches, and facilitate business growth in one of the world’s largest economies.

If you are considering applying for an E-1 visa, our firm is here to support you. From company registration and document preparation to consular interviews and USCIS filings, Yellow Law Group is committed to guiding you every step of the way.

Contact us today to begin your journey to doing business in the United States with confidence.