The ICELAND Act would change U.S. immigration law so that Iceland can be treated the same as other “treaty states” for the purpose of the E1 (Treaty Trader) and E2 (Treaty Investor) nonimmigrant visa categories. Specifically, Iceland would be considered a foreign state described in the E1/E2 provisions if the Government of Iceland provides similar nonimmigrant status to United States nationals. In short, Iceland would gain access to E1/E2 eligibility for its nationals only if Iceland offers reciprocal nonimmigrant treatment to U.S. nationals. The bill is titled the Iceland Commercial and Economic Leadership for Arctic and National Development Act (ICELAND Act). It was introduced in the House on May 6, 2025, by Representatives Pingree and Murphy and referred to the Judiciary Committee. The text defines the reciprocity condition that must be met for Iceland to be covered by the E1/E2 provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
Key Points
- 1Purpose and effect: The bill adds Iceland to the list of foreign states whose nationals may qualify for E1/E2 nonimmigrant status, but only if Iceland provides similar nonimmigrant treatment to U.S. nationals.
- 2Scope of eligibility: The change applies to the E1 (treaty trader) and E2 (treaty investor) categories under section 101(a)(15)(E) of the INA, which govern nonimmigrant entry for certain foreign businesspeople and investors.
- 3Reciprocity condition: The inclusion of Iceland depends on Iceland offering U.S. nationals comparable nonimmigrant rights. If Iceland does not provide similar treatment, Iceland would not be considered a qualifying foreign state under these provisions.
- 4Legislative status and sponsor: The bill is introduced and referred to the Judiciary Committee; primary sponsors are Ms. Pingree and Mr. Murphy.
- 5Short title: The act is named the “Iceland Commercial and Economic Leadership for Arctic and National Development Act” (ICELAND Act).