H1-B: Iphone Application Development Company

[morrisking]

Hello

I am working in the US on H1-B visa, and would like to start a company which would develop iphone applications which would have accompanying websites where people would register and pay a monthly service fee.

I have read the various forums and it appears that I can be a passive investor in the company and not assume any role or work for the company even in a volunteer fashion.

I would like to however fulfill my entrepreneurial dream and would like to take on the role of the CEO of the company. So, can I start the company in India (my country of birth) take on the role of the CEO and then start a branch over here in the US with couple of US citizens as partners, as a passive investor and then do the leg work for expanding the business in US.

Please advise.

[immihelp]

No matter where you start the company, you can't really work for that company here in the U.S.

No matter what you have read, it is really not practical to be CEO of the company if you are not working on a day to day basis.

[karfageniiy]

It’s great to hear about your entrepreneurial ambitions! Starting a company and taking on a role like CEO while working on an H1-B visa can be complex due to visa restrictions on employment. Generally, an H1-B visa holder can work for their sponsoring employer but cannot take on a role in a new company without violating visa terms.

However, your idea to start a company in India and then establish a branch in the US with US citizens as partners could be a viable strategy. In this setup, you could potentially act as the CEO of the Indian branch while having US partners manage the operations and expansion in the US.


Be sure to consult with a legal expert to navigate visa regulations and company formation details accurately. Good luck with your venture!