BUSINESS VISAS TO THE UNITED STATES

TREATY TRADER VISA FOR PRINCIPAL INVESTORS AND EMPLOYEES OF PRINCIPAL INVESTORS TO THE UNITED STATES

Eligible applicants must be a national of a country that has a trade treaty with the United States. In addition, applicants must be in a position to develop and direct the business in the United States, which requires at least 50% control. Applicants must also intend to invest a substantial amount of capital into a US business. A "substantial" investment is generally defined as more than half the value of the U.S. business or more than half the amount necessary to establish a new business. Proof that an actual financial investment of funds has been made must be shown before an investor visa can be applied for. If the applicant is not the principal investor, he or she must be employed in a supervisory, executive, or highly specialized capacity. Ordinary skilled and unskilled workers do not qualify.

VISA ENTITLEMENTS

Spouses and/or children under the age of 21 who wish to accompany or join the principal visa holder in the United States for the duration of his/her stay may apply for derivative E visas. The spouse and/or children of an E visa holder may study on a derivative visa. Spouses are also eligible to apply for work authorization after arriving in the United States. Spouses and/or children who do not intend to reside in the United States with the principal visa holder, and only visit, may be eligible to apply for Visitor B-2 visas, or if eligible, travel visa free under the Visa Waiver Program.

The Business Visa provides you with the opportunity to work and live in the United States for as long as you continue to maintain your position with the business, up to 2 years per extension. There is no maximum number of extensions, with some exceptions. As well, the visa provides great flexibility for you to engage in various activities during your stay in the United States, including, travel throughout the country to all 50 states, attendance to festivals, conferences, conventions, sporting and musical events, or visit world-renowned monuments, memorials and museums.

In addition, you may also engage in short-term study during your stay.