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Dreaming of Doing Business in the U.S.? E-1 Visa or E-2 Visa? Let’s Break It Down…

If you’re an Israeli entrepreneur dreaming of entering the U.S. market, you’ve probably heard of the E visa. But before you sell your house in Israel, book a flight, and start packing your life into a container, let’s clarify the differences.

E-1 Visa (Treaty Trader Visa):

  • Designed for those engaged in international trade between Israel and the U.S. (import/export).
  • The trade with the U.S. must be substantial.
  • The applicant must be an Israeli citizen (or a citizen of another treaty country).
  • The applicant must own at least 50% of the business.
  • Best suited for those already importing/exporting between Israel and the U.S.
  • Trade can include goods, services, or technology.
  • This visa is *not* for opening a brand-new business, but for expanding existing trade operations.
  • No requirement to show a substantial investment in the business.
  • No requirement to prove a U.S. office or employees.

E-2 Visa (Treaty Investor Visa):

  • Designed for those who want to invest in a U.S. business.
  • You can open a new business or purchase an existing one.
  • At least 50% of the business must be owned by the Israeli citizen (the investor).
  • The visa is granted only if the business is shown to be active (not a passive investment).
  • Suitable for entrepreneurs, restaurateurs, investors, and service providers.
  • Requires proof of a substantial investment, a U.S. office, employees, etc.

Both visas require:

  • Israeli citizenship (or citizenship from another treaty country).
  • Intent to return to Israel at the end of the visa period.
  • Real evidence of commercial or business activity.
  • A precise and well-prepared application (since it’s much harder to change a first impression).

So, which one is better?

It depends on what you do, what you’re planning, and your business story.

See you at Starbucks ☕

Attorney Hila Kaplan

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Client Testimonials

"Hila guided me through the entire E-2 visa process with patience and expertise. From the business plan to the final approval, she made sure every detail was covered. Thanks to her, I was able to move to the U.S. and start running my business smoothly. I couldn't have done it without her support."

Testimonial by Yaron S., Tel Aviv, Israel – E-2 Visa

"Going through the VAWA process was one of the most difficult times in my life, but Hila made me feel supported and protected. She handled my case with professionalism and compassion, and because of her, I was able to get my green card and start over with confidence. I will always be grateful."

Testimonial by Dana M., Miami, FL – VAWA

"I wanted to join my wife in the U.S., and the green card process seemed overwhelming. Hila explained every step clearly and took care of all the paperwork. Thanks to her, our family is now together in the U.S., and the process went much faster than I expected."

Testimonial by Itay S., Ramat Gan, Israel – Family-Based Green Card

"As an Israeli entrepreneur expanding to the U.S., I needed someone who truly understands E-1 visas. Hila was amazing - she was knowledgeable, responsive, and always available to answer my questions. Because of her hard work, my E-1 visa was approved, and my business is now thriving in New York."

Testimonial by Amit Ben-David, Long Island, NY – E-1 Visa

"My wife and I filed for my green card through marriage, and Hila handled the adjustment of status process perfectly. She prepared us for the interview, helped us gather all the right documents, and everything went smoothly. We felt so reassured having her on our side."

Testimonial by Noam M., Las Vegas, NV

"Attorney Kaplan helped me through the toughest time of my life. Her patience, knowledge, and dedication brought my family back together. Forever grateful."