Can I study if I am in the U.S. on an E-1 visa? Can my E-1 spouse study if they have an E-1 spousal visa?

E-1 visa is a great visa for treaty traders who engage in international trade between the U.S. and their home treaty country.

One of the E-1 requirements is that your purpose of coming to the U.S. on an E-1 visa is to solely engage in substantial trade. Our clients are often confused by the word “solely” and they often ask us whether they can enroll into a school.

The short answer is yes. The regulations clarify that the word solely in this context means “principally”, “mostly”, or “overall.” Therefore, you can enroll into a University program without violating your E-1 status. However, one thing you should keep in mind is that because you are in the U.S. on an E-1 visa, your primary purpose should be to engage in an international trade. If you are studying full-time, the Consular Officer could be questioning how are you taking care of the E-1 business and engaging in the substantial trade.

Can my spouse study on E-1 spousal visa?

Yes. Your spouse may enroll into school if he/she is in the U.S. on an E-1 spousal visa.

Please click here to read about all E-1 visa requirements.

Please click here if you want to find out whether your spouse needs a work authorization if he/she is in the U.S. on an E-1 visa.