E-2 — Treaty Investor
Allows nationals of treaty countries to enter the U.S. to develop and direct a business in which they have invested a substantial amount of capital. There is no fixed minimum investment, but it must be substantial relative to the total cost of the enterprise. Renewable indefinitely in two-year increments.
Requirements
Nationality of a treaty country, a substantial investment that is at-risk and irrevocable, and at least 50% ownership or operational control of the enterprise. The investment must not be marginal — it must generate income significantly beyond providing a living for the investor.
Who It's For
Foreign entrepreneurs starting or acquiring a U.S. business, franchise owners, and business operators from countries with an E-2 treaty with the United States.
E-1 — Treaty Trader
For nationals of treaty countries engaged in substantial, continuous trade that is principally between their home country and the United States. Trade includes exchange of goods, services, banking, insurance, transportation, and technology.
Requirements
Nationality of a treaty country, substantial trade that is principally (over 50%) between the treaty country and the U.S., and a supervisory or essential skills role in the trading enterprise.
Who It's For
Import/export business owners, international trading companies, and service providers with substantial cross-border commercial activity between their home country and the U.S.
L-1A — Intracompany Transferee — Manager/Executive
Enables multinational companies to transfer managers and executives from foreign offices to U.S. offices. Also commonly used by entrepreneurs opening a new U.S. office for an existing foreign company. Valid for up to seven years. Provides a direct pathway to the EB-1C green card.
Requirements
One continuous year of employment in a managerial or executive capacity with the company abroad within the preceding three years. The U.S. entity must have a qualifying relationship with the foreign entity (parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or branch).
Who It's For
Senior managers and executives of multinational corporations, and foreign business owners opening or expanding into the U.S. market through a related entity.
B-1 — Business Visitor
For short-term business activities that do not constitute employment or productive work in the United States. Typical stays are limited to a few weeks or months. Does not authorize employment, compensation from a U.S. source, or active management of a U.S. business.
Requirements
Proof of a foreign residence the applicant does not intend to abandon, a legitimate business purpose for the visit, and sufficient funds to cover the stay.
Who It's For
Business executives attending meetings, negotiating contracts, attending conferences, conducting due diligence, or performing preliminary planning for a future U.S. business venture.