E-1 or E-2 Visa (For International Investors and Traders)

The E-1 visa is for executives and managers of businesses that engage in substantial international trade with the United States. This visa is often used by business owners who import and sell products in the United States. 

The E-2 visa is an investment visa. It requires that: 

  • The applicant must make a substantial investment in a business that they have a controlling interest in.
  • There must be a real and active commercial enterprise that generates more revenue than just for the applicant and his family
  • The investor must work at the business to develop and direct it. 

ℹ️ For both of these, you must intend to live here temporarily, not permanently. 

ℹ️ Both of these visas are issued initially for two years, and can be renewed. 

Since August 2026, USCIS does not have to ask you for missing evidence before denying an application. What that means for your filing.