New Visas for AI + Tech Founders
Founding a company in the US as an international entrepreneur involves a set of immigration questions that are distinct from the standard employment visa path. This session is designed specifically for AI and tech founders who want a clear picture of which visa categories apply to them, what the requirements actually look like, and how to think about timing as you build.
Manifest immigration attorney Henry Lindpere will cover four pathways relevant to founders: the O-1 for individuals with a demonstrated record of achievement, the EB-1A for those pursuing a direct path to a green card, and the E-1 and E-2 treaty visas for founders from eligible countries looking to operate or invest in a US business. Each pathway has different requirements and strategic considerations depending on where you are in your journey.
The goal of this session is not to tell you which visa to pursue — that depends on your specific circumstances — but to give you a solid enough foundation to have a productive conversation with your legal team and make informed decisions about your next steps.
Topics covered:
O-1 visa eligibility for founders and what qualifies as extraordinary achievement
EB-1A as a green card pathway and what the standard requires
E-1 treaty trader and E-2 treaty investor visas — who qualifies and how they work
How to evaluate which pathway fits your stage and nationality
What documentation founders typically need across each category
Common pitfalls for founders navigating US immigration
How to plan your immigration strategy alongside your company's growth
Interested in moving forward? Apply for a free case evaluation with Manifest at manifestlaw.com/bondcommunity