E-1 Treaty Trader Visa Attorney in Chicago
The E-1 Treaty Trader Visa allows nationals of countries that maintain a qualifying treaty of commerce with the United States to enter and work in the U.S. to carry on substantial trade. At Liberum Law, our E-1 visa attorneys in Chicago help businesses and individuals navigate the requirements for this nonimmigrant visa category.
To qualify for an E-1 visa, you must be a national of a country with a qualifying treaty with the U.S., you must be carrying on substantial trade, which means a continuous flow of sizable international trade items, the trade must be principally (more than 50%) between the U.S. and the treaty country, and you must be employed in a supervisory or executive capacity, or possess essential skills needed for the business.
Trade for E-1 purposes includes exchange of goods, services, international banking, insurance, transportation, tourism, technology transfer, and some news-gathering activities. The trade must be ongoing — a single transaction, no matter how large, does not qualify.
Our attorneys prepare E-1 visa applications that thoroughly document the nature and volume of trade, the principal trade relationship between the U.S. and the treaty country, the applicant’s role within the business, and the viability of the trading enterprise. We compile comprehensive evidence packages including trade documentation, financial records, organizational charts, and business plans.
E-1 visas are initially granted for up to two years and can be renewed indefinitely in two-year increments, as long as the qualifying trade continues. Spouses of E-1 holders may also apply for work authorization.
Contact our E-1 visa attorneys at Liberum Law for a free consultation to determine whether the E-1 treaty trader visa is right for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for an E-1 treaty trader visa?
You must be a national of a treaty country, and the U.S. enterprise must engage in substantial and continuing trade principally (over 50%) between the U.S. and the treaty country. You must hold an executive, supervisory, or essential skill role. The trade must be in goods, services, or technology with documented transactions.
What countries have an E-1 treaty with the U.S.?
Over 70 countries have E-1 treaties — including the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Japan, Korea, Australia, Canada (under USMCA), and many more. Russia, China, India, and Brazil do not have E-1 treaties. The treaty country must match your nationality.
What counts as "substantial trade"?
There is no fixed dollar threshold. USCIS evaluates volume, value, and continuity of trade transactions over a meaningful period. Many successful E-1 cases show 50+ transactions per year and significant total value. Single large transactions rarely qualify; the focus is on sustained ongoing trade.
How long is E-1 status valid?
Initial admission is up to 2 years, renewable in 2-year increments indefinitely as long as the qualifying trade continues and you maintain non-immigrant intent. There is no maximum duration.
Can my employees come on E-1 visas too?
Yes. Executives, supervisors, and employees with essential skills may obtain E-1 status if they share the same treaty nationality as the principal employer and the U.S. enterprise.
