E-1 Visa

E-1 Visa Processing Time, Length of Stay and Extensions

The E-1 visa processing time varies by consulate and whether you are applying from within or outside the U.S. On average, it takes between two and four weeks to process.

The E-1 visa grants a stay of up to two years and may be followed by an extension of up to two years, provided the visa holder continues to meet the initial E-1 visa conditions. There is no limit to the number of extensions.

E-1 visa holders may travel outside of the U.S. and will get an automatic 2-year extension upon re-entry.

However, note that the additional readmission extension is not granted to family members automatically; they should keep track of their length of stay and apply for extensions at the appropriate time to remain in the U.S lawfully.

The Most Common E-1 Fees and Their Associated Costs

• Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application: This is the primary form for E-1 visa applicants, which is submitted to the U.S. Department of State. The fee for Form DS-160 is $160.
• Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker: This form is typically used when a U.S. company is petitioning on behalf of the applicant who is already in the United States or seeks to change their visa status. The fee for Form I-129 is $460.
• Form I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status: This form is used when the E-1 visa holder is seeking an extension or change in their status while in the United States. The cost of Form I-539 is $370.
• Form I-134, Affidavit of Support: This form is needed if the applicant must prove they have the financial resources to support themselves during their stay in the United States. The cost of Form I-134 is $0.
• Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service: This form is optional and used when the applicant wishes to speed up the application process. The fee for Form I-907 is $2,500.

In addition to these forms, the applicant may also incur other costs such as travel expenses to the U.S. embassy or consulate, translation fees, document preparation fees, and costs associated with acquiring necessary supporting documents like copies of their passport, a birth certificate, or a marriage certificate. The total cost of an E-1 visa application can vary greatly depending on the individual's circumstances, but the applicant should expect to pay at least a few hundred dollars in application fees and other associated costs.