Do I need a US work visa to launch an app?

No, you do not need a work visa specifically to launch an app in the United States. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind, depending on how you plan to go about it:

1. Launching an App (from Outside the U.S.):

If you're not physically in the U.S. and you're launching an app remotely (i.e., from your home country), you can launch the app without needing a U.S. work visa. Here’s what you need to do:

• App Store (Google Play, Apple App Store): You can submit your app to platforms like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store from anywhere in the world, provided you meet the platform's requirements (e.g., creating a developer account, providing necessary documentation, and adhering to their policies).

• Business Registration: If you plan to set up a business entity in the U.S. (e.g., LLC, Corporation) for your app, you can do so as a foreign national. This requires registering with the appropriate state authorities. Some states allow you to register online, and you don’t necessarily need to be physically present.

• Payment Processing: If you plan to charge for your app or offer in-app purchases, you will likely need a payment processor (like Stripe, PayPal, etc.). These services allow you to operate internationally, even if you're not based in the U.S.

2. Launching an App (If You're in the U.S.):

If you plan to move to the U.S. to physically work on or promote your app, then a visa might be necessary. A work visa might be required if you plan to work in the U.S. (e.g., developing, marketing, or managing the app full-time while residing in the U.S.). Common visa types in such cases include:

• B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa: If you're coming to the U.S. for a short stay to work on or promote your app (e.g., for a few meetings or consultations), a B-1 Business Visitor Visa may be appropriate. However, this visa is not intended for long-term work or operational activities in the U.S.

• O-1 Visa: If you're a person of extraordinary ability in your field (such as tech development or entrepreneurship), you may be eligible for an O-1 visa, which allows individuals with exceptional skills to work in the U.S.

• H-1B Visa: If you plan to work in the U.S. as a software developer or in a technical role related to your app, you may be eligible for an H-1B visa, which is a specialty occupation visa for highly skilled workers. However, this visa requires sponsorship from a U.S. employer.

• E-2 Visa: If you are starting a business (such as an app development company) in the U.S. and are from a country that has a treaty with the U.S., you might be eligible for an E-2 Investor Visa, which allows foreign nationals to operate their business in the U.S.

3. Other Considerations:

• Taxes: If you establish a business in the U.S. or make money through app sales in the U.S., you will need to understand tax requirements. You might need an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) or an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for tax purposes, even if you are not a U.S. citizen.

• App Monetization: Depending on how your app generates income (e.g., in-app purchases, subscriptions), you may be subject to U.S. tax laws related to your earnings, even if you are not physically in the U.S. But this depends on the payment systems you use and the revenue source.

Conclusion:

• If you're launching an app from abroad: You do not need a work visa to launch and manage your app from outside the U.S.

• If you plan to work or operate the business in the U.S.: You may need a work visa, depending on your role in the app's development and operation