E-1 Treaty Trader Visa: Do Substantial Business with the US
The E-1 visa is for Canadian nationals and companies engaged in substantial trade between Canada and the United States. If most of your international trade is with the US (in goods, services, or technology), the E-1 lets you and key staff live in the US to run that trade. It’s renewable indefinitely and covers your family.
Silver Immigration helps Canadian traders and their employees qualify for and maintain E-1 status.
What Is the E-1 Visa?
The E-1 treaty trader visa is available to citizens of treaty countries (Canada qualifies) who carry on substantial international trade principally between the US and Canada. It’s a non-immigrant status granted in multi-year increments and renewable as long as the trade continues.
E-1 Visa Requirements
- You (or the company) are a Canadian national/entity.
- There is substantial trade, a continuous flow of sizable transactions.
- The trade is principally between the US and Canada (typically more than 50%).
- You are entering to carry on that trade, or work in an executive/supervisory or essential-skills role.
E-1 vs E-2
| E-1 (trader) | E-2 (investor) | |
|---|---|---|
| Based on | Substantial US-Canada trade | Substantial investment in a US business |
| Best for | Import/export, services, tech trade | Buying/starting a US business |
Not sure which fits? Compare with our E-2 investor visa page.
Cost, Processing and Family
E-1s are generally processed at a US consulate; spouses can work in the US. (Confirm current consular fees and timelines before filing.)
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as “substantial trade”?
A continuous flow of numerous, sizable transactions, where volume and frequency matter more than any single large deal.
Can my spouse work on an E-1?
Yes. E-1 spouses are generally authorized to work.
How long does the E-1 last?
It’s issued in multi-year increments and renewable indefinitely while the qualifying trade continues.
Trading With the US?
We’ll confirm whether the E-1 fits your business.
Call us today at +1 (888) 799-4769 or fill out our contact form to book your free consultation with a US immigration lawyer.
This page provides general information and is not legal advice. US immigration law changes frequently, so book a consultation for advice on your specific situation.
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