Blog Post
Principal Trade Between the U.S. & Treaty Country
5/26/2025
The E-1 Visa is designed for businesses that conduct the majority of their trade with the U.S. Think of this requirement as a partnership—both countries must benefit significantly. The application may not be approved if less than 50% of a company’s trade is with the U.S.
Key principal trade requirements:
Majority Trade With The U.S.: More than half of the total trade must be conducted between the applicant’s country and the U.S.
Documented Transactions: The business must provide evidence of shipments, contracts, and financial transactions proving principal trade.
Failure to meet this requirement could result in visa denial. Applicants must maintain clear records of their trade activities to avoid complications. The next section explores the necessary documentation to strengthen an application.
Documentation & Evidence Requirements
Just as a well-prepared business plan is essential for securing investment, a well-documented application is crucial for proving substantial trade. U.S. immigration authorities require clear and convincing evidence that the trade is both ongoing and financially meaningful.
Since there is no fixed monetary threshold for substantial trade, the burden falls on the applicant to provide detailed records. Every piece of evidence must contribute to a clear and organized case that meets U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and consular officer expectations.
Invoices & Contracts
Copies of signed contracts, purchase agreements, and invoices that show regular and significant trade transactions. These documents help establish the volume and consistency of trade.
Shipping & Customs Records
Bills of lading, freight receipts, and customs declarations that prove the movement of goods between the U.S. and the treaty country. These are particularly important for businesses engaged in physical product exports and imports.
Bank Statements & Financial Reports
Statements showing payments received for goods or services and overall financial health, as well as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and audited financial reports, further strengthen the case.
Tax Returns & Business Licenses
Evidence that the business is legally registered and compliant with tax laws in both countries. These documents help establish credibility and operational legitimacy.
All documentation should be well-organized and easy to understand. Immigration officers review numerous applications, and unclear or incomplete records can lead to delays or denials. Organizing documents chronologically and including a cover letter summarizing key evidence can help streamline the review process.
Providing thorough documentation increases the likelihood of approval, demonstrating that the trade meets both substantial and principal trade requirements. Next is the step-by-step process for applying for an E-1 Visa.
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