NONIMMIGRANT VISAS
E1/E2 Visa Lawyer: Expert Guidance for Treaty Traders and Investors
The journey to obtaining a Treaty Trader (E-1) or Treaty Investor (E-2) visa can be intricate and nuanced. Recognizing this, the Root Law Group, with its seasoned E2 visa lawyers, has become a beacon of guidance for many aspiring traders and investors. Their expertise not only simplifies the process but also ensures compliance with all necessary legalities.
The E2 Visa: Eligibility and Requirements
The E2 visa, also known as the Treaty Investor Visa, is designed for nationals of countries with which the United States maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation. To qualify, applicants must invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business. While there’s no minimum set amount, the investment must be significant enough to ensure the successful operation of the enterprise.
Key E2 visa requirements include:
- Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of a treaty country.
- Investment: They must have made, or be actively in the process of making, a substantial investment in a bona fide enterprise in the U.S.
- Business Viability: The investment must be in a real operating enterprise, not a marginal business solely for earning a living.
- Intent to Depart: Applicants must intend to leave the U.S. once their E2 status ends.
E1 Visa: A Close Relative of the E2
Parallel to the E2 is the E1 visa, designed for treaty traders. Unlike the E2, which is for investors, the E1 visa caters to individuals involved in substantial trade between the U.S. and their home country. The E1 visa has its own set of specific requirements but shares several similarities with the E2, including the need for applicants to be nationals of a treaty country and the intention to return home upon visa expiry.
Key E1 visa requirements include:
- Nationality: Applicants must be nationals of a country with which the United States maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation.
- Substantial Trade: The primary requirement is to engage in substantial trade. “Substantial” in this context means that there must be a sizable and continuing volume of trade.
- Principal Trade: More than 50% of the total volume of international trade must be between the U.S. and the treaty country of the applicant’s nationality.
- Business Viability: The trade must be substantial enough to ensure a continuous flow of trade between the U.S. and the treaty country. This typically requires evidence of numerous transactions over time.
Navigating the Application Process
The application process for E-1 and E-2 visas typically involves several key steps. These visas are for nationals of countries with which the United States maintains treaties of commerce and navigation, with E-1 being for treaty traders and E-2 for treaty investors. Here’s a general outline of the process:
1. Determine Eligibility:
- E-1 Visa (Treaty Trader): You must be a national of a treaty country and be involved in substantial trade between the U.S. and your home country.
- E-2 Visa (Treaty Investor): You must be a national of a treaty country and have made a significant investment in a U.S. business.
2. File the Petition (If Necessary):
- If you’re outside the U.S., you might not need to file a petition. Instead, you can apply directly at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
- If you’re in the U.S., your employer may need to file Form I-129 on your behalf.
3. Complete the Online Visa Application:
- Fill out Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application.
- After completing the form, print the confirmation page, as you’ll need it for your interview.
4. Schedule and Prepare for the Interview:
- Visa interviews are generally required for applicants aged 14 to 79.
- Schedule your interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live.
- Prepare the necessary documents, including your passport, the DS-160 confirmation page, a photo, and other required documents specific to the E-1 or E-2 visa.
5. Attend the Visa Interview:
- During the interview, a consular officer will determine whether you are qualified to receive the visa.
- You’ll be asked questions about your business and your ties to the treaty country.
6. Pay the Visa Application Fee:
- This fee is typically required and varies by country.
7. Wait for Visa Processing and Approval:
- Processing times vary depending on the embassy or consulate.
- If your visa is approved, you may also need to pay a visa issuance fee, depending on your nationality.
8. Enter the United States:
- Once you receive your visa, you can travel to the U.S.
- The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry will grant you admission into the U.S.
The Role of an E2 Visa Lawyer
In the labyrinth of treaty trader and investor visas, the assistance of an E2 visa lawyer from Root Law Group is invaluable. Their expertise not only streamlines the process but also maximizes the chances of a successful visa application. Whether it’s for an E1 or E2 visa, their guidance ensures that all requirements are met with precision and professionalism.
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I recently had the pleasure of working with the incredible lawyers at Root Law Group, notably Daria. From my initial consultation until the successful resolution of my case, their expertise, professionalism, and dedication made a profound impact.
Working with this highly professional team made difficult and long process of applying for EB-1 GreenCard easy, clear and fast. I felt calm and confidently on every step. I really appreciate all the hard work and patience that Khaled Kaoud shared while working with me. He was always available and answered every possible question that I ever had. Also thanks to Igor, William and Daria for help and support during the working on my case. Working with Root Law Group was the best decision I did. And I undoubtedly recommend this professional, reliable and perfect team!
I am a business owner and operator abroad and I came to Root Law Group looking for immigration help. They told me that I was able to apply for EB2-NIW and they worked on my case nonstop. Even when USCIS requested more evidence, Daniel guided me throughout the entire process and helped ease my worries and concerns was an extremely helpful paralegal. After months of waiting, I was granted the I-140 Approval! I am extremely thankful for all the work Root Law did for me and super excited for adjustment of status when I become current. I look forward to working with Daniel, William and the entire team when that time comes and highly recommend their immigration services! This team cares and will try everything possible for your needs.
I recently received approval for my visa application and would like to express my gratitude to Root Law, especially Igor for his excellent management, and Khaled for his legal assistance and guiding through the whole process.I want to acknowledge that despite several other lawyers suggesting that I had no chance of obtaining the visa, these professionals made it possible.
Root Law's team is great, they did our case in just two months.Especially Igor and Khaled, thanks guys for the professionalism, care and dedication to your work. You studies every detail of the case and due to it it was done quickly.Will advise Root Law to my friends and relatives for sure
After seeing such amazing reviews on Root Law Group I just knew I had to work with them. All the attorneys here are amazing and so helpful. I’m so happy with myexperience and for anyone looking for fast and helpful attorneys this is your place! Thank you so much for your patience with me Root Law Group it was a pleasure being your client!
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