Can the E-1 visa be used to export software to Brazil?

The E-1 visa was created to facilitate substantial and continuous trade between the United States and the investor’s country of nationality, provided that this country maintains a trade treaty with the U.S. This type of visa can be used by companies conducting export or import operations of various products and services – including software – as long as they meet the criteria of trade volume and continuity.

In the specific case of exporting software to Brazil, it is important to pay attention to a key point: trade conducted under the E-1 visa must occur mainly between the U.S. and the country whose nationality or headquarters the company holds, and which maintains the trade treaty with the U.S. Therefore, if the company or individual is a national of a country that maintains such relations with the United States, most of the trade operations (generally, more than 50% of the total volume) must be carried out with that country, and not exclusively or almost exclusively with a foreign market not covered by the treaty – such as Brazil.

This means that if exporting software to Brazil is part of a diversified portfolio of transactions – with a large part occurring with the investor’s country of origin enjoying the benefits of the treaty – it may be possible to fit these operations within the E-1 visa criteria. However, if commercial activity is focused practically solely on exporting to Brazil, the set of transactions may not meet the requirement of ‘substantial trade’ between the U.S. and the investor’s country, according to the visa provisions.

It is essential to comply with U.S. immigration laws and obtain a careful analysis of each specific case, considering not only the nature of the products or services exported but also the organizational structure and origin of the transactions. Always seek reliable sources and, if possible, consult specialists working in immigration to avoid misinformation, scams, and unfounded promises of results.

Remember: compliance with immigration regulations and correct fulfillment of the requirements are decisive steps for success in any immigration process.

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.