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Investor and Business Visas

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In the United States, “Investor and Trader Visas” are visa types intended for foreign businesspeople aiming to establish investment and trade relations with the US. These visas are designed for individuals who wish to conduct commercial activities or make business investments in the US.

Types of Investor and Trader Visas

E-1 Merchant Visa:

  • Who is it for? It is suitable for citizens of countries that have a trade agreement (Treaty) with the US.
  • Purpose: To conduct significant commercial activities in the field of goods, services, or technology covered by the trade agreement with the US.
  • Requirements:
    • The trade must be substantial (high volume or continuous).
    • 50% of the trade must occur between the United States and the person’s home country.
    • The applicant must be an owner, executive, or key employee of a business.

E-2 Investor Visa (Treaty Investor Visa):

  • Who is it for? Suitable for citizens of countries that have an investment agreement with the US.
  • Purpose: To make a substantial investment in the U.S. and manage a business through that investment.
  • Requirements:
    • The investment amount must be “substantial” (appropriate to the industry and size of the business).
    • The business in which the investment is made must be an active business (it must not be a passive source of income).
    • The investor must directly manage or control the business.