Founding a company/Startup on E1 Visa

[steve22 0]

Hello,

 

I am working in the US on E1 visa.

Now I had the idea of founding a company. I know that I am not allowed to take over a second job or receive a second "active" income, but how about if I work for my own business. I didn't even need to pay me an income, I would rather reinvest. 

I have heard from people without any Visa that founded a company and generate income in the US, so I thought that should be possible on E1 too. Am I right?

 

Thank you very much in advance! Your help is much appreciated!!

 

 

[Coco8 1,042]

I think you need to consult a lawyer. All the information you gave us is very vague. 

 

People creating companies in the US that leave abroad do not have to worry about having a US visa or paying taxes, so it is not a fair comparison. I do get what you say about investing money, but there are different ways of investing money and that is why you should consult a lawyer. For instance, I am pretty sure you could buy an apartment and rent it out, which would be additional income. Now, if you put a consulting firm and you provide services, am not sure that would be allowed even if you do not give yourself an income. 

 

Anyway, I think for you, a lawyer would be the best way to go.

 

[Boiler 45,525]

Assuning you are an E1 employee then you could start by asking your Employer, they must have goe thought a similar process when they set up their business, E1, E2 and Eb5 are the obvious ones.