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The Daily Insight

Can you own a business in India while on H-1B?

Author

Henry Morales

Published Mar 02, 2026

No, an H1B worker is generally not permitted to work for any employer (or run his own start up) without authorization from USCIS, even if the company is located abroad. Obviously, if you are in India working for the company, U.S. law does not apply.

Can I have a business while on H-1B?

Yes, H1b visa holder can start any business. They can also work actively in it. Anyone on H1b can start, work and make income from the business.

Can I freelance in India while on H-1B?

No. You cannot do freelance work for other companies while in H-1B status and living inside of the U.S. It does not matter if you are paid in a foreign currency that is deposited in a foreign bank account.

Can you work in India while on H1B?

1. India is not the US. What you do in India is controlled by Indian law, not US law. 2. While in the US, you can only work for the company that filed the H-1B. 3. Not an immigration question. You need to consult with a business lawyer.

Can a H-1B visa holder start a business?

If you are in the U.S. in H-1B status, the regulations allow you to only work for your sponsor. You can start a business, but you cannot “run” or manage your business since that is considered “work”, and you are not authorized to work for your company.

Can you work for Bank of America on H1B visa?

, works at Bank of America. Answer is Yes and No. Technically being on H1B you can not work for any other company except company which filed your visa. If your business is solely online and doesn’t require to be registered in US, then I would advice , to register in India on your relative name.

How is the quota for H1B visa set?

The quota for H1B lottery is set at 65000 every year for work visas, barring the 20000 meant for students. Since the application is submitted by the employer, USCIS informs your employer on whether or not you lucked out in the lottery. You wouldn’t be getting any info from the USCIS on this directly.