The E-1 treaty trader visa and the E-2 treaty investor visa are some of the lesser-known visas that permit foreign nationals to conduct business in the U.S. For people legally in the country with these visas, however, the visas are of primary importance because they represent their livelihoods as well as their right to remain in the U.S. And now, the economic downturn is threatening some business owners' ability to renew their E-1 and E-2 visas, especially in Florida.

Statistics from news-press.com show that, in 2006, 8,000 E-1 treaty trader visas and 29,400 E-2 treaty investor visas were granted by the by the U.S. Department of State. In contrast, 6,279 E-1 trader visas and 25,500 E-2 investor visas were issued in 2010, largely because the recession is making it difficult for business owners to meet the requirements for obtaining or renewing E visas.

The E-1 visa requires that the person be involved in "substantial" international trade with a sizable and continuing volume of trade. The E-2 visa requires "substantial" investment in a real operating enterprise that is sufficient to ensure the successful operation of the enterprise. If immigrant business owners are not able to meet the "substantial" requirements, their applications for E visas or renewals may be denied.

In Florida, one of the states hit hardest by the recession, many foreign national business owners say the economy has limited their ability to engage in substantial trade or make substantial investments in businesses, putting their E visas in jeopardy when it comes time to renew them.

For example, one married couple from England bought a Florida shutter manufacturing company in 2007 and obtained an E visa. In 2009, the company's annual gross revenue was less than one-fifth of what it was when they bought the company. They are concerned that when they must renew their visa, it will be denied.

People who need to renew their E visas or are interested in investing in or engaging in trade with an American company should contact a knowledgeable Florida business immigration lawyer for advice specific to their situation.