Starting a business in the U.S. while on an F-1 visa is allowed. However, it is considered off-campus employment. As such, all the rules and guidelines that apply to off-campus employment for F-1 students apply also to starting a business.
Your intended business should be related to your major field of study and provide practical training and experience. Working for your own business while on an F-1 visa would fall under CPT or OPT guidelines.
In addition to obtaining proper work authorization, international students starting a business must also comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations related to business ownership, taxation, and licensing. This may include registering the business, obtaining business licenses and permits, and filing tax returns.
It is important to note that starting a business while on an F-1 visa can be complex and may require the assistance of legal and financial professionals. It is also important to seek guidance from ISPaSO to ensure that you are following all guidelines and regulations and maintaining your legal status in the United States.
When thinking about starting a business while on an F-1 visa, it is easy to get overwhelmed and discouraged by all the legal hurdles involved. But what if your intended business is, say, in your home country? Can you start building it while here? Absolutely! Please reach out to ISPaSO for this. In partnership with the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, we are here to support you in your entrepreneurship journey!
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