VISA E1 IMPORTER AND EXPORTER
The E1 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa available to citizens of countries that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. This visa is designed for traders who conduct import and export activities between their home country and the U.S. It allows applicants to live and work in the United States to manage these business operations on an ongoing basis. Below, we explain in detail the requirements, the application process, and the most common questions you might face during the consular interview.
E1 IMPORTER/EXPORTER VISA
Requirements
To obtain the E1 Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
• Nationality: The applicant must be a citizen of a country that has a trade agreement with the United States.
• Substantial trade: You must show that your company engages in substantial trade between the United States and your home country. This means that more than 50% of the company's trade must occur between the two countries.
• International trade in goods or services: Trade can include physical products, services, technology, or even international transportation.
• Direct involvement: You must be directly involved in the import and export business activities, which means you have control over key company decisions.
• Proof of business transactions: It is important to provide documents proving that trade between both countries is constant, such as contracts, invoices, trade agreements and records of previous transactions.
Frequent Questions in the Consular Interview for the E1 Visa
During the consular interview, the officer will likely ask a series of questions to ensure that you meet the requirements for the E1 Visa and that you have substantial trade with the United States. Below are some of the most common questions you may face:
1. About your company and international trade:
• What type of goods or services does your company import/export?
• What percentage of your trade is with the United States?
• How often do you import/export?
• How much do you expect to sell during the next year?
• How do you manage business operations between the two countries?
• Do you have contracts or agreements that support your business activities?
• What are the main products or services that you sell between your country and the US?
• Who are your main trading partners in the US?
2. About your qualifications:
• Do you have previous experience in international trade?
• What are your qualities and skills to manage the company's business operations?
• How do you ensure that your transactions comply with the trade laws of both countries?
3. About the company and its viability:
• Does your company have employees in the US who manage business operations?
• How do you ensure that your company complies with international trade requirements in both countries?
• What are your expectations for business growth over the next few years?
4. About dependents:
• If you are traveling with your family, what will your wife or husband and children do in the US?
• Where will your children attend school? Have you already researched schools in the United States?
5. Financial aspects:
• Where do the funds that finance your business operations come from?
• How will you maintain the continuity of trade between the two countries?
• What is the total value of the goods you trade between the US and your home country?
Process
• Complete forms DS-160 and DS-156E: The DS-160 is the online form that must be completed by both the principal investor and his or her dependents. The DS-156E is required for E visa.
• Pay the fees: You must pay the applicable visa fee for the principal applicant and each dependent.
• Submit documentation: Some consulates require you to submit documentation before the interview by mail or through their online platform.
• Attend the consular interview: Once you have submitted the documentation, you must attend the interview with a consular officer.
Dependents and Other Important Aspects
Spouse and children under 21: Each dependent must also complete his or her own DS-160 form and pay the corresponding fee. At the consular interview, you must present documents proving your relationship to the principal applicant, such as marriage certificates and birth certificates.
Studying for your children: If you have children traveling with you, you will likely be asked where they will be studying in the U.S. and whether you have already researched suitable schools.
Decision If your application is approved, you will receive an E1 visa stamped in your passport. Upon entering the U.S., you will receive an I-94 form, which will allow you to apply for your Social Security Number to legally work in the country.
The consular interview is a crucial step in the E1 visa application process. Being prepared to answer questions about importing or exporting products or services, your business, and your plans in the U.S. is essential. Also, be sure to meet all requirements and bring appropriate documentation, including proof of relationship for dependents such as marriage and birth certificates, to the interview.