Starting Business on F1 OPT STEM

[agfx]

Hi,

 

I am currently in my post completion OPT phase and have applied for STEM extension. My STEM extension expires Sep 2015 and i wish to start a company here. As per OPT STEM rules, I am allowed to start a business and work for it as long as the company is e-verified, which is fine for me. 

 

I wish to know what happens once my STEM extension expires? What will be my options to stay and continue with my company here?

 

I know investor visa is one way, but it requires $1 Million investment, which I don't think I would be able to make within first year of my business. So what does this leaves me with?

 

Any comments?

 

Thanks,

AG

[JoeF]

When your OPT expires, you won't be able to work for the business anymore.

That's why starting a business on OPT is not such a good idea...

[t75]

Your plan is fatally flawed. You may not just start a business and use it to live in the US.

 

OPT-EXT requires that you work in your field and be PAID.

 

Most businesses in the US FAIL.

 

Get a REAL job and once you have experience, money and a GC, then you can worry about starting a business and working for it.

[agfx]

When your OPT expires, you won't be able to work for the business anymore.

That's why starting a business on OPT is not such a good idea...

 

Thanks for your response. That's what I thought would be the case. I would need to change to a H1 / GC or some other form of valid permit.

 

Your plan is fatally flawed. You may not just start a business and use it to live in the US.

 

OPT-EXT requires that you work in your field and be PAID.

 

Most businesses in the US FAIL.

 

Get a REAL job and once you have experience, money and a GC, then you can worry about starting a business and working for it.

 

Thanks for your response. To clarify here, my business will be in my field as well as pay me a monthly salary(say X). I already  have a real job and wish to hold it until my venture pays ENOUGH. I wish to understand if I can keep my Job AND set up the venture?