Business visas (E1- E2 – L1)

For Companies and Investors

The United States offers several visa categories for foreign entrepreneurs, investors, and executives. E1, E2, and L1 visas allow foreign citizens to legally enter and remain in the U.S. to operate businesses, manage investments, or be transferred within multinational corporations.

Below is a detailed description of each visa type, along with its requirements, benefits, eligibility, process, and approximate costs.

E1 Visa – Treaty Trader Visa

Description

The E1 visa allows entry to the U.S. for citizens of countries that maintain treaties of commerce and navigation with the United States and who wish to engage in substantial trade in goods, services, or technology between the two countries.

Main Requirements

Be a citizen of a country with an E1 treaty with the U.S.

The company must engage in substantial (frequent and continuous) trade between the U.S. and the applicant’s country.

At least 50% of the company’s international trade must be between the U.S. and the treaty country.

The applicant must perform key functions (executive, supervisory or with special knowledge).

Duration and Renewal

Initial validity: up to 2 years.

Unlimited renewals as long as trading continues.

Family Beneficiaries

Spouse and children under 21 years of age may obtain a derivative visa.

The spouse may apply for employment authorization.

E2 Visa – Treaty Investor Visa

Description

The E2 visa is intended for citizens of countries with treaty trade agreements with the U.S. who have made or are in the process of making a substantial investment in a real and operating commercial enterprise in the U.S.

Main Requirements

Be a citizen of a country with an E2 treaty with the U.S.

Make a substantial investment (there is no fixed minimum amount, but at least USD $100,000 is commonly considered).

The company must be active and generate profits or potential for economic growth.

The applicant must have control of the funds and be able to manage or develop the company.

Additional Eligibility

Essential employees with executive functions, supervision, or specialized skills may also apply.

Duration and Renewal

Initial validity: up to 2 years.

Unlimited renewals as long as the investment and operation remain active.

Family Beneficiaries

Spouse and children under 21 years of age may accompany the holder.

Spouse can legally work in the U.S.

L1 Visa – Intracorporate Transfer

Description

The L1 visa allows an international company to transfer an employee from a foreign branch to an affiliated office in the U.S. It applies to companies with offices in at least two countries.

Variants

L1A: For managers or executives.

L1B: For employees with essential specialized knowledge for the company.

Main Requirements

The applicant must have worked for the company outside the US for at least 1 year in the last 3 years.

The U.S. and foreign companies must have a business relationship (parent company, branch, affiliate, or subsidiary).

The transfer must be to an executive, management, or specialized knowledge position.

Duration

L1A: Up to 7 years (1 year initially if it is a new office, then renewals).

L1B: Up to 5 years.

Family Beneficiaries

Spouse and children under 21 years of age can obtain an L2 visa.

The spouse may apply for employment authorization.

Approximate Costs

Visa Type	Consular Fee (DS-160)	Other possible costs	Notes
E1/E2	USD $315	Legal fees, document preparation, translations	It is paid for each applicant
L1	USD $205 (I-129 petition)	USD $500 (anti-fraud), fees, translation	Rate for requesting company

Costs may vary depending on country, processing type, and whether Premium Processing (USD $2,805) is used.

General Advantages

They allow legal residence and work in the U.S.

They do not require prior permanent residence.

Possibility of indefinite renewal (E1/E2).

Inclusion of immediate family members.

Opportunity for expansion or starting a legitimate business.

Key Considerations

E1/E2 visas do not lead directly to a Green Card, but in some cases it is possible to change status.

The L1 visa can serve as a bridge to permanent residence (particularly the L1A → EB-1C).

Success depends on the quality of the documentation, business plan, and strict compliance with immigration requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is considered a “substantial investment” under an E2 visa?

There’s no exact amount, but it must be sufficient to operate the business and demonstrate a real financial commitment. It typically exceeds USD $100,000.

Which countries qualify for E1 or E2 visas?

Only citizens of countries with valid treaties with the U.S. (such as Mexico, Argentina, Spain, Japan, etc.). Ecuador is not on the E1/E2 treaty list (until 2024).

Can I change from an E2 visa to a Green Card?

Not directly, but you can change your status to an EB visa (such as EB-2 or EB-5) if you meet other immigration requirements.

Can I apply for an E-2 visa with a franchise?

Yes, as long as the franchise is legally operating and the investment meets the substantive and control requirements.

Does the L1 visa require investment?

No. What is required is a relationship between companies and that the employee has previously worked outside the US.

How long does the process take?

Typically between 2 and 6 months. This can be accelerated with Premium Processing for L1.

Statement: The concepts explained should not be taken as legal advice, it is a compendium of public information from the INA.

In all cases, consultation with an attorney is recommended to determine your eligibility. At Immigration Document Preparers, we limit ourselves to submitting forms to USCIS correctly based on the information that the client provides us. We do not give advice or legal advice.