Overview
Compare treaty-trader and treaty-investor pathways for qualifying treaty-country nationals, enterprises, trade, and investment activity.
Visa Options in This Group
Choosing Between Trade and Investment Paths
E-1 and E-2 are treaty classifications, but they address different business activity. E-1 focuses on a continuing pattern of qualifying trade, while E-2 focuses on a substantial investment in a real U.S. enterprise. Treaty nationality is important to both paths, but the ownership, transaction, funding, and operational evidence differs.
The practical comparison begins with the applicant’s nationality, the nature and direction of trade, the amount and status of invested funds, ownership and control, the operating plan, and the proposed U.S. role. Related guides below compare the classifications and explain how investment or business-owner facts may affect the analysis.