Question 1

What is the difference between E-1 and E-2?

Accepted Answer

E-1 (Treaty Trader) requires carrying on substantial trade between the U.S. and the treaty country. E-2 (Treaty Investor) requires making a substantial investment in a U.S. enterprise. E-1 focuses on trade; E-2 focuses on investment. Both require treaty-country nationality, can be renewed indefinitely, and allow spouses to obtain EADs. The choice depends on the applicant's type of business activity.

Question 2

Can mainland Chinese nationals apply for E-1?

Accepted Answer

No. There is no Commerce and Navigation treaty between mainland China and the United States, so mainland Chinese nationals are not eligible for E-1. However, Taiwan nationals qualify. Ethnic Chinese holding passports from other E-1 treaty countries (such as Canada, the UK, or Australia) may also apply. Mainland Chinese nationals may consider the L-1 visa or H-1B as alternatives.

Question 3

How is "substantial trade" defined?

Accepted Answer

"Substantial trade" requires a continuous flow of international trade transactions between the U.S. and the treaty country. There is no minimum dollar amount per transaction, but the overall volume and frequency must be sufficient to constitute a continuous flow of trade. Numerous smaller transactions may be more favorable than a single large transaction. Trade encompasses goods, services, technology, insurance, banking, and more.

Question 4

Can E-1 lead to a green card?

Accepted Answer

The E-1 visa itself does not provide a direct path to a green card. However, E-1 holders may pursue permanent residence through other channels: (1) EB-5 investor immigration; (2) employer-sponsored PERM/EB-2/EB-3; (3) EB-1A extraordinary ability (if eligible); (4) NIW National Interest Waiver. E-1 status can be renewed indefinitely while waiting for the green card process.

Question 5

Can E-1 spouses work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The E-1 principal's spouse may apply for an EAD (Form I-765), and once approved, may work for any U.S. employer without industry or occupation restrictions. E-1 children may attend school in the U.S. but may not work.

阶段	预计时间
贸易文件准备	2-4周
领事面签	1-4周
USCIS审批（境内转换）	2-4个月
初始居留期	2年
续签次数限制	无限制

E-1条约贸易商签证

概述

申请条件

申请流程

确认条约国资格

证明实质性贸易

选择申请方式

领事面签或USCIS审批

入境/续签

时间线参考

常见问题

E-1和E-2有什么区别？

中国大陆公民可以申请E-1吗？

E-1的"实质性贸易"如何定义？

E-1可以转绿卡吗？

E-1配偶可以工作吗？

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