How Can You Maintain an E-Visa in Illinois?

 Posted on July 12, 2024 in Immigration

As an E-visa holder in Illinois, maintaining your immigration status is important for your continued stay and business operations in the United States. An Illinois lawyer can help you understand the essential information on how to maintain your E-visa status while residing in the state.

Make Sure You Understand the E-Visa Requirements

E-visas are nonimmigrant visas designed for treaty traders (E-1) and treaty investors (E-2) from countries with qualifying treaties with the United States. To maintain your E-visa status in Illinois, you must:

• Continuously engage in substantial trade or investment activities
• Maintain your nationality from the treaty country
• Intend to depart the United States when your E-visa status ends

Comply with Permitted Activities

As an E-visa holder, you must adhere to the activities permitted under your specific visa category:

• E-1 Treaty Traders: Engage in substantial international trade, primarily between the United States and your treaty country
• E-2 Treaty Investors: Continue to develop and direct the operations of the company that you have invested in

Ensure that your business activities in Illinois align with these requirements to maintain your visa status

Monitor Your Visa Expiration and Extension Process

E-visas are typically granted for an initial period of two years. To maintain your status in Illinois:

• Keep track of your visa expiration date
• File for an extension at least 45 days before your current visa expires
• Prepare documentation showing your continued eligibility for the E-visa category

Maintain Proper Documentation

Keeping accurate and up-to-date records is essential for E-visa holders in Illinois. Maintain the following documents:

• Proof of ongoing trade or investment activities
• Financial records of your business operations
• Evidence of your continued nationality from the treaty country
• Documentation of your intent to depart the U.S. upon completion of your E-visa activities

Additional Considerations for E-Visa Holders in Illinois

E-visa holders in Illinois must be mindful of several important factors to maintain their status. It is crucial to report any change of address to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 10 days of moving. When traveling internationally, ensure you have a valid passport and visa stamp for re-entry into the United States. If you have dependents on E-visas, such as spouses or unmarried children under 21, monitor their status regularly to ensure continued eligibility.

Familiarize yourself with Illinois-specific regulations that may affect your E-visa activities, including state requirements for business operations or professional licensing. Additionally, comply with federal and Illinois state tax obligations for nonimmigrant visa holders. These responsibilities are essential for maintaining your legal status and avoiding potential complications.

Work with an Itasca, IL Immigration Lawyer

For personalized advice on maintaining your E-visa status or assistance with the extension process, consider talking with an experienced DuPage County, IL immigration attorney. Call Unzueta Law Group, P.C. at 630-509-2363 to start the process.