Treaty trader & investor
E-1 / E-2 Treaty Visas
For nationals of countries that hold a commercial treaty with the United States, the E-1 and E-2 visas open a flexible, renewable route to run a U.S. business — whether you trade substantially with the U.S. or invest in a U.S. enterprise.
What it is
Two treaty-based routes
The E-1 (treaty trader) is for those carrying on substantial trade principally between the U.S. and the treaty country. The E-2 (treaty investor) is for those who have invested, or are actively investing, a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. enterprise they will direct.
The Norway treaty
Norway holds a qualifying treaty with the United States, so Norwegian nationals and Norwegian-owned enterprises can use the E-1 and E-2 routes. For many Nordic founders and owner-operators, the E-2 is the most practical way to relocate and run their U.S. venture.
Why owners favour it
E visas are renewable indefinitely while the qualifying trade or investment continues, and they extend to the spouse and children of the principal — with spouses generally able to work. The enterprise's nationality must match the treaty country, which is where structure and ownership planning come in.
What Privello handles
- Confirming treaty-country nationality and qualifying ownership
- Structuring the investment or documenting substantial trade
- Building the business plan and source-of-funds evidence
- Planning renewals and the interaction with permanent options
- Aligning the move with your data-transfer obligations
Thinking longer-term? Compare permanent routes
Common questions
Questions European companies ask
Does Norway qualify for E-1/E-2?
Yes. Norway has a qualifying commercial treaty with the United States, so Norwegian nationals and majority Norwegian-owned enterprises can pursue E-1 and E-2 status, subject to the usual requirements.
How much investment does the E-2 require?
There is no fixed minimum. The investment must be “substantial” relative to the cost of the business and sufficient to ensure the enterprise operates — a marginal business that only supports the investor will not qualify.
Can my spouse work on an E visa?
Generally yes. Spouses of E treaty visa holders are typically authorized to work in the United States.
Begin
Talk through your move with Privello
Tell us what you're planning. We'll outline the realistic options — and how the immigration and data-protection steps line up — in a first conversation.