Investors and Traders: Time Limits for E Visas

E visas are normally issued with a five-year validity allowing multiple entries. However, due to agreements between the U.S. and certain treaty countries, the validity period may be less. There is no limit to the number of times an E visa may be renewed, as long as all the essential elements of the initial application remain the same.

Every time an E visa holder enters the United States, the individual is normally allowed to remain in the United States for two years from the date of entry. However, the period of authorized admission may be less. Therefore, it is essential to check the expiration date of the Form I-94 after every entry into the United States.

The E visa holder may extend his/her status (Form I-94) by filing an extension application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Approval of E extension applications is normally granted with a two-year validity period. If an E visa holder departs the United States at least once during the two-year period of admission, an E extension application is not necessary. There is no limit to the number of extensions an E beneficiary may file.