Start own business while with H1B

[gkost]

Can I start my own business while I am with H1B?
Thanks!

[leifbooger]

A person on H1B status is legally allowed to remain in the U.S. and work only with the employer that obtained the H1B Petition approval with the INS for the individual, subject to the terms and conditions mentioned on the H1B application. In order for the person on an H1B to work for another company or employer, s/he would either obtain a concurrent H1B approval to work for the new entity, in addition to the present employer or, if possible, could obtain H1B approval to change jobs and work for the new company only. In either case, H1B approval for the new company would be possible only if there is adequate documentation showing that the company is in a position to offer employment in view of its prospects, financial picture and projections, and its customer or client base, if applicable.

A foreign national who is living or working in the United States can invest money in any venture or enterprise. The law allows foreign nationals in the United States to purchase any assets or property, including real estate. Conversely, in order to protect U.S. workers, both citizens and green card holders, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) require that the foreign national obtain certain work authorization.

In other words, a person on an H1B or other temporary work visa in the United States is legally allowed to invest in any venture or company and could possibly undertake some limited volunteer work on behalf of the venture or company. However, the individual cannot work indefinitely for that company and earn a salary without obtaining prior approval from the USCIS to work for the particular venture or company.

[razors_edge]

A person on an H1B or other temporary work visa in the United States is legally allowed to invest in any venture or company and could possibly undertake some limited volunteer work on behalf of the venture or company.
A person on H1B status is legally allowed to remain in the U.S. and work only with the employer that obtained the H1B Petition approval with the INS for the individual, subject to the terms and conditions mentioned on the H1B application.

However, the individual cannot work indefinitely for that company and earn a salary without obtaining prior approval from the USCIS or DOL to work for the particular venture or company.

[leifbooger]

but you can easily open a company in your home country. you can deposit the checks in that companys accounts in your home country. you would need to pay tax on the revenue earned there.

[gkost]

If a H1B holder is legally allowed to invest in a company does it mean that he can team up with an US citizen and found a company under the name of the US citizen?