Understanding the US DS-156E Form: What You Need to Know
The US DS-156E form is an important document that must be completed by individuals seeking non-immigrant visas. This article will provide an overview of the form, the purpose it serves, and the information that needs to be included in it.
What is the US DS-156E form?
The US DS-156E form, also known as the Nonimmigrant Treaty Trader / Treaty Investor Application, is a form that must be completed by individuals seeking non-immigrant visas. The form is used to determine the eligibility of individuals for non-immigrant visas under the E-1 and E-2 visa categories.
The purpose of the form is to provide information about the applicant’s business and investment interests in the United States. The US DS-156E form helps the US government determine whether an applicant is eligible for an E-1 or E-2 visa, which allows the applicant to engage in international trade or investment activities in the United States.
What information needs to be included in the US DS-156E form?
The US DS-156E form asks for information about the applicant’s business, investment interests, and personal information. Here are some of the questions that need to be answered in the form:
1. Business information: The applicant must provide information about the name and address of their business, the type of business, and the date it was established.
2. Investment information: The applicant must provide information about the amount of money invested in the US business, the percentage ownership of the business, and the industry in which the business operates.
3. Personal information: The applicant must provide personal information such as their name, address, and nationality. They must also provide information about their educational background, work experience, and any criminal history.
4. Family information: The applicant must provide information about their spouse and children, including their names, ages, and relationship to the applicant.
5. Intended duration of stay: The applicant must indicate how long they intend to stay in the United States.
6. Travel information: The applicant must provide information about their travel plans, including their intended port of entry, the purpose of their visit, and their expected date of arrival.
7. Other information: The applicant must provide any additional information that they believe will support their application.
FAQs
1. Who needs to complete the US DS-156E form?
Individuals seeking non-immigrant visas under the E-1 and E-2 visa categories need to complete the US DS-156E form.
2. Can the form be completed online?
Yes, the US DS-156E form can be completed online. However, applicants must print and sign the completed form and submit it in person to the US embassy or consulate.
3. Is it necessary to submit supporting documents with the form?
Yes, applicants must submit supporting documents with the form. These documents include a business plan, financial statements, and evidence of investment in the US business.
4. How long does it take to process the application?
The processing time for the application can vary depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant. However, applicants should expect the process to take several weeks.
5. What happens if the application is denied?
If the application is denied, the applicant can reapply for the visa or appeal the decision. However, they must address the issues that led to the rejection of their previous application.
Conclusion
The US DS-156E form is an important document that must be completed by individuals seeking non-immigrant visas under the E-1 and E-2 visa categories. The form provides information about the applicant’s business and investment interests in the United States, which is used to determine their eligibility for the visa. Applicants must provide accurate and complete information in the form and submit supporting documents to increase their chances of a successful application.