E-1 and E-2 Employees, Family Members and Renewals

Immigration » E-1 and E-2 treaty visas » Employees, family and renewals

Treaty visas cover more than the owner. Key employees and family members can often qualify, and the visas can be renewed as long as the business remains qualified.

Treaty employees

An employee with the same nationality as the treaty investor or company may qualify if their role is executive or supervisory, or if they have essential skills.
The employer must be at least 50 percent owned by nationals of the treaty country.
The employer files the required forms, and the employee applies for the visa or changes status.

Spouses and children

E-1 and E-2 spouses and unmarried children under 21 can receive derivative status.
Spouses are generally authorized to work in the United States, and children can study.
Children aging out at 21 need another status.

Duration and renewals

Initial stays are generally granted in two-year periods.
Visa validity depends on what the home country grants to U.S. citizens, so it can be longer or shorter than two years.
Extensions are possible with proof that the enterprise is still qualifying and the investor or employee still qualifies.

Switching to a green card

The E visas do not lead directly to permanent residence. Many E holders later use an employer-sponsored or other category. See employment-based green cards. We plan the transition with you so the E status stays valid while the new case is pending.

Treaty countries

Which countries have treaties is determined by the U.S. government and changes from time to time. The existing list on our E-1 and E-2 page is a starting point, and we confirm current treaty status before advising.

Compare options

See our other work visa guides for L-1, H-1B and O-1 to compare.

E-1 and E-2 treaty visas guide

How our firm helps with E-1 and E-2 treaty visas

We confirm treaty-country eligibility and structure ownership for the visa.
We help you assess whether your investment is substantial and the business is more than marginal.
We review the business plan, the source of funds and the application as one package.
We plan renewals, employee and family applications, and a later green card if you want one.

Situations we handle

Entrepreneurs buying or starting a U.S. business
Companies bringing treaty employees
Spouses seeking work authorization
Investors planning a long-term move

Why clients choose our firm

A Texas-licensed attorney serving immigration clients in all 50 states.
Russian-language service for clients and families.
Clear communication and updates through our client portal.
A full review of your history before anything is filed, so problems are caught early.
Organized filings and representation through interviews, requests for evidence and appeals.

Get help with e-1 and e-2 treaty visas

Every case has its own facts. Request a consultation and we will review your situation, options and timeline.

This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules, policies and fees change often. Last updated: November 2026.