How does the application process work?

The application for the Treaty Trader visa will usually be submitted to the US consulate in the country where the company based.

Generally, it is also possible to apply at the US Citizenship and Immigration Services – but we strongly advise to apply at the appropriate consulate in your home country. Please check with your local US embassy for details. Other than the L- or H-visa application process, the E-1 application process does not require a petition to the USCIS. This is one of the advantages of the E-visa category, since the USCIS fees are quite high.

The E-1 application, including documented evidence for all the category’s necessary requirements, is submitted by mail to the US consulate with jurisdiction over the applicants place of permanent residence.

Along with the standard forms (DS156, DS157 and DS 156 E) and the appropriate fees, documentation that all legal requirements are met has to be submitted.

After a processing time of approximately 4 to 8 weeks (depending on the season and the work load in the consulates) the employee/business owner will receive an appointment for an interview with the US consulate. The interview is the final step in deciding about the applicants eligibility. After this, the application will either be approved or denied.