As an international student in the USA, can I legally launch and operate a startup? Are there specific regulations or pathways for starting a business?
If you hold a F-1 visa as an international student then it might be difficult for you to start a business abroad but it is not impossible.
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As an F-1 visa holder in the USA, you can legally own a business but cannot actively manage or work for it due to visa restrictions. To operate your startup, you can utilize OPT after graduation or CPT during your studies if the business aligns with your curriculum. Alternatively, changing to a visa like H-1B or E-2, or applying for the International Entrepreneur Parole, may allow you to run your business legally. Consulting an immigration attorney and leveraging university resources can help you navigate these pathways effectively.
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@Saleem_Shaik Thanks for the insights! I’ll definitely look into the specific regulations and consult with the appropriate resources before pursuing any entrepreneurial ventures.
It’s crucial to understand the regulations. Starting a business while on an F-1 visa can have immigration implications. It’s best to consult with an immigration lawyer or the International Student Office at your university for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Also, you check out this blog Starting a Business as an Indian Student in the U.S.: Key Visa Options and Tips | GyanDhan, to know more about starting a business in the U.S…