Q: Can I register and operate businesses with a G4 visa?
Hi All,
I’m currently in NYC with a G4 visa, employed by an international organization. I’ve spotted some business opportunities I’d like to pursue and have the green light from my organization’s Ethics Office. However, I’m unsure if my visa status allows for registering and running a business in the U.S., and online info is scarce.
Any insights or advice on this matter would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
A:
A G4 visa allows you to reside in the U.S. due to your employment with an international organization. While the visa permits employment with the specific international organization, it does not generally authorize outside employment or business activities. However, there's a distinction between owning a business and actively managing or working for it. You may register a business, but actively participating in its operations or deriving an income from it might violate the terms of your visa.
Before proceeding, you should ensure that any activities related to the business do not breach your visa conditions. It would be prudent to consult with an immigration attorney to discuss the specifics of your situation and get detailed guidance. Compliance with both immigration and business regulations is crucial to avoid complications.
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