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I'm on H1b. Can I found a startup? Also, what options do I have to grow a project while I work full-time? The fact I can't earn income from alternative work i

by aylmao 4y ago

I'm on H1b. Can I found a startup? Also, what options do I have to grow a project while I work full-time? The fact I can't earn income from alternative work is a huge demotivator from starting anything for me. I won't know if I want to work full-time on a startup I found unless I see MRR first.

proberts 4y ago
The answer is complex and nuanced unfortunately. You absolutely cannot get compensated by another source unless that compensation/work has been authorized by USCIS. One option is to obtain a concurrent part-time H-1B through your company. This has its own challenges because of the newness of the company and the founder's ownership in and control of the startup. There are however many things that a founder can do in connection with his or her own startup while in H-1B status with another company without crossing the line.