Visto n' Visa
Blog
Notícias e artigos
Destinations
Careers
Immigrants

Can a newly opened company apply for the E-1 visa?

A newly opened company can apply for the E-1 visa, provided it proves substantial and continuous commercial activity between the U.S. and the Treaty country, with solid documentation.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on February 22, 2026
2 min read
Share

One of the bases for obtaining the E-1 visa is demonstrating that the company maintains a substantial and continuous commercial activity between the United States and the Treaty country. This visa was created to facilitate the exchange of goods and services through companies that in fact conduct regular and significant transactions.

Regarding the possibility of a newly established company applying for the E-1, it is important to clarify that there is no explicit requirement regarding the company’s age. In other words, there is no rule preventing a newly constituted company from applying for the visa. However, the major challenge lies in proving that it already establishes, even in an initial period, a substantial and continuous commercial volume.

U.S. immigration authorities analyze, among other factors, the robustness of the business plan, the feasibility of commercial transactions, and the ability to maintain a consistent flow of operations – elements that can be more complex to demonstrate for a company with little time in operation. Each case is evaluated individually, and presenting solid evidence that supports the nature and scope of commercial activities is essential.

Therefore, even in the case of a newly opened enterprise, if it is possible to gather all necessary documentation proving the substantiality and continuity of trade between the countries, the E-1 visa application can, in theory, be accepted. It is worth highlighting the importance of strictly following U.S. immigration laws and relying on official sources and qualified professionals to avoid falling into offers or campaigns promising guaranteed results. Seek information from trustworthy sources and remember that each case has particularities that require thorough analysis.

Learn more about E-2 Visa

Type
Non-immigrant
Initial validity
2-5 years
Extension
Unlimited (2 years each)
Processing
1-4 months
All about E-2 Visa
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

Victoria's tips

Can a newly opened company apply for the E-1 visa?

A newly opened company can apply for the E-1 visa, provided it proves substantial and continuous commercial activity between the U.S. and the Treaty country, with solid documentation.

Recommended reading about E-2

More content about E-2