H1B Visa: Can You Open a Startup While Employed?

Yes

You can open a startup while working under an H1B visa, but there are restrictions:

1. Ownership: You can own a business or be a shareholder in your startup, but you cannot work actively for the company unless you have proper work authorization.

2. Employment Restrictions: The H1B visa ties you to the sponsoring employer, so you cannot engage in operational tasks or be employed by the startup without obtaining a separate H1B or other work authorization through the startup.

3. Compliance: The startup must comply with U.S. immigration laws, including hiring U.S. workers or sponsoring you for a new H1B.

Consulting an immigration attorney is advised to ensure compliance with legal requirements.