Immigration Law for Tech Startups: Recent Episodes

Sophie Alcorn

Sophie Alcorn is an expert on U.S. immigration matters and a Board Certified Specialist in United States Immigration and Nationality Law by the State Bar of California, Board of Legal Specialization, having been quoted in publications around the globe such as The New York Times, Financial Times, The Atlantic and TechCrunch. Her immigration-focused boutique law firm has quickly become a go-to resource for founders, HR, and tech workers in the Bay Area and around the world.

Sophie's mission is to overcome borders, expand opportunity, and connect the world by practicing compassionate, visionary, and rigorous immigration law in service of the betterment of humanity. She believes that immigration fuels innovation and is inspired by amazing women and men who reach beyond the status quo to create their dreams.

Immigration Law for Tech Startups features immigration law strategies to empower global leaders to influence change, regardless of their geographic location, place of birth, or citizenship. The conversations you'll hear will help rapidly scaling tech companies and highly-motivated professionals from around the globe hire the world’s best and brightest that will create new technologies to manifest a new world.

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Unlock the keys to navigating the future of U.S. immigration policy as we analyze the potential shifts under the Trump administration. Through the lens of an experienced immigration lawyer, we promise insights into how recent election outcomes may reshape high-skilled and business immigration. From H-1B and L-1 visa types to enforcement strategies, we scrutinize Trump's official principles and the Republican Party platform, offering a roadmap to understanding the complex balance between economic growth, safety, and humanitarian concerns in a rapidly changing landscape.

Sophie Alcorn is a leading immigration attorney and the founder of Alcorn Immigration Law in Silicon Valley. With a focus on helping tech startups and international talent, she specializes in guiding clients through the complexities of U.S. immigration law to obtain visas and green cards.

Sophie is a Certified Specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law and has been a regular contributor to TechCrunch’s "Ask Sophie" column, where she shared valuable insights on immigration issues. She is also the host of "The Sophie Alcorn Podcast", providing essential information for entrepreneurs navigating immigration challenges.

With a commitment to empowering individuals and families, Sophie actively participates in mentoring and advocacy, ensuring that her clients can achieve their dreams in the U.S.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Analysis of potential shifts in U.S. immigration policy under the Trump administration * Impact of recent election outcomes on high-skilled and business immigration * Insights from influential figures like Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy on tech-friendly immigration reforms * Examination of possible changes to H-1B visa program, including wage-based allocation * Challenges businesses might face with regulatory changes and compliance needs * Strategies for navigating the evolving immigration environment

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiealcorn/

https://www.donaldjtrump.com/platform

In conversation with President Trump

https://www.alcorn.law/newsletter-registration/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees * Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3 * Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Dr. Colin Ponce is a computational mathematician at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and his research interests include energy systems, network cybersecurity, decentralized computing, machine learning, and AI. Additionally, he has led or contributed to efforts focused on large-scale vulnerability analysis of power systems, robust decentralized computing for industrial control systems, and multi-level methods for machine learning. Recently, he led a study analyzing the benefits and risks of AI within the energy sector in response to Executive Order 14110: Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Exploring AI's dual impact on energy infrastructure: benefits and challenges. * Energy demands of AI data centers compared to California's peak usage. * Importance of responsible AI development for power grid stability. * AI's role in improving grid forecasting and power distribution efficiency. * Regulatory challenges and funding for expanding energy infrastructure. * Socio-economic disparities in access to AI and power resources.

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-ponce-9abb5715b/

https://www.llnl.gov/

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/10/30/executive-order-on-the-safe-secure-and-trustworthy-development-and-use-of-artificial-intelligence/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Connor O'Brien is a Research & Policy Analyst at the Economic Innovation Group, where he focuses on immigration and innovation policy. He has written on these topics for City Journal, Newsweek, National Review, and on his personal Substack, Regions. He is a graduate of Rutgers University and the University of Chicago.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Discussion on the transformative power of high-skilled immigration for economic innovation.
  • Exploration of the Heartland Visa proposal as a pathway to permanent residency.
  • Impact of high-skilled immigration on regional economic growth and entrepreneurship.
  • Benefits for international students and national security through immigration reforms.
  • Role of high-skilled immigration in revitalizing legacy cities and addressing economic disparities.
  • Consideration of complementary visa pathways for supporting economic growth and innovation.

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connorjohnobrien/

EIG.org

cojobrien.com

Heartland Visas: A Policy Primer - EIG

Most international graduates of American universities ultimately leave the U.S. - EIG

EIG Poll: Voters in both parties want more high-skilled immigration

Immigrant inventors are crucial for American national and economic security - EIG

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Based at Carnegie Mellon University's Silicon Valley campus, Sheryl Root is an Associate Professor in technical ventures. Sheryl develops curriculum and teaches courses that merge technology with entrepreneurship taking ideas to commercialization. She created a Master’s degree in Technical ventures that has resulted in successful startup ventures. Outside of CMU, Sheryl is the owner of RootAnalysis, a consulting firm specializing in corporate strategy and marketing. Prior to joining academia, Sheryl had an extensive career in the software industry, including a successful career at Hewlett-Packard (HP). Sheryl is a leader, board member, and advocate for many world–renowned institutes and organizations.

We explore the intricacies of building a startup team that mirrors the precision and strategy of a baseball lineup. Sheryl and I discuss the importance of identifying roles—buyers, users, and influencers—and the art of assembling a team that complements and enhances one's own strengths. From recognizing blind spots to outsourcing non-core tasks, we highlight the value of diversity and collaboration. Think of it as rounding the bases in a baseball game, where each base represents a critical step in the entrepreneurial journey toward commercialization and success.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Insights from Sheryl Root on drawing entrepreneurial lessons from baseball. * Importance of understanding and loving the problem before developing a solution. * Emphasis on engaging with potential customers to ensure product-market fit. * Strategies for building a startup team that mirrors the precision of a baseball lineup. * The significance of solution development and validation, avoiding premature product building. * Importance of mentorship, strategic partnerships, and continual learning in startups. * Discussion on the global impact of startup education and collaborative empowerment.

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/sheryl-root-703b792

https://www.amazon.com/Value-Proposition-Design-Customers-Strategyzer/dp/1118968050

https://a.co/d/2qRjwyn

https://a.co/d/6yWOBS4

https://paulgraham.com/ds.html

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Value Proposition Design: How to Create Products and Services Customers Want (The Strategyzer Series)

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Stephen Yale Loehr, a luminary in immigration law, shares his unexpected journey from international trade to finding his calling in the deeply human realm of immigration law. Join us as Stephen recounts his path to becoming a foremost expert and educator, weaving personal anecdotes with professional insights. At the heart of our conversation is the growing fascination with immigration law among students and the vibrant opportunities at Cornell, including the innovative Path to Papers project. Through Stephen's narrative, we explore the nuanced landscape of immigration law, from the challenges of specialization to the rewarding impact of his editorial work and teaching.

As we navigate the evolving terrain of immigration education, this episode unpacks the critical role law schools play in equipping students to be effective advocates. We tackle pressing issues like the constitutional hurdles in removal proceedings and the ongoing advocacy for legal representation for immigrants. Highlighting the intricacies of immigration federalism, Stephen offers a thoughtful analysis of state-sponsored immigration initiatives, touching on high-skilled worker programs and potential reforms. His experiences testifying before Congress provide a compelling glimpse into the legislative side of immigration reform, culminating in reflections on his career and the upcoming symposium celebrating his contributions to the field.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Growing interest in immigration law among students and opportunities at Cornell * Challenges and benefits of specializing in immigration law * The critical role of law schools in preparing effective immigration advocates * Constitutional issues and advocacy for legal representation in removal proceedings * Analysis of state-sponsored immigration initiatives and potential reforms * Experiences testifying before Congress and reflections on a career in immigration law

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-yale-loehr-5869494/

Website - https://www.lawschool.cornell.edu/faculty-research/faculty-directory/stephen-yale-loehr/

https://migrations.cornell.edu/

https://www.lawschool.cornell.edu/academics/centers-programs/migration-and-human-rights-program/

Nov. 8 immigration conf. at Cornell Law School: https://community.lawschool.cornell.edu/the-impossibility-of-immigration-reform/

Nov. 20 webinar about immigration in the next administration: https://ecornell.cornell.edu/keynotes/overview/K112024/

Path 2 Papers - https://sites.lawschool.cornell.edu/path2papers/

Dan berger, Cornell Law Podcast - https://www.alcorn.law/podcast/sap188/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Matt Kirmayer has more than 30 years of experience in the emerging company and venture capital ecosystem, including numerous seed and venture financings for technology and life science companies. Matt represents emerging technology companies and the investors who fund them across a range of industries, including software, educational technology, digital media, social media, artificial intelligence systems, robotics and life sciences. Active in the technology and investment communities in Silicon Valley and the East Coast, Matt often works with emerging companies as their outside general counsel, managing legal, financial and operational issues, from formation and angel and venture capital investment through exit.

Our conversation with Matt sheds light on the essential role of legal counsel in supporting the startup journey. Drawing on his extensive New York corporate law background, Matt discusses how he guides entrepreneurs through the complex landscape of fundraising and legal regulations, acting as a strategic advisor and protective guide. We touch upon the common misconceptions startups have, particularly around stock options and financial instruments like SAFEs. Matt emphasizes that while legal education is vital, it should serve to encourage meaningful dialogue with legal professionals rather than replace them, and he shares how he prepares students at Carnegie Mellon University for these critical interactions.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Importance of legal counsel for startups and navigating fundraising complexities. * Common misconceptions about stock options and financial instruments like SAFEs. * Foundational legal considerations such as incorporation and equity splits. * Emphasis on open communication for international founders in the U.S. * Significance of 83B elections and tax strategies for startups. * Role of legal education in fostering meaningful dialogue with professionals.

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkirmayer/

Website - https://www.pillsburylaw.com/en/lawyers/matt-kirmayer.html

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Congressman Jerry McNerney, a former 16-year Congressman from California now serves as a Senior Policy Advisor at Pillsbury Winthrop, LLP where he is in the process of creating an AI trade association, The AI Trust Foundation. In Congress, McNerney focused on energy, technology and veterans’ issues, was the author of the AI in Government Act, and was chair of the Congressional AI and Grid Innovation Caucuses. Before coming to Congress, he spent 20 years developing renewable energy technology. McNerney is a PhD Mathematician.

Former Missouri Congressman William Lacy Clay Jr. advises and advocates on behalf of clients whose interests intersect with the federal government. In guiding clients, Congressman Clay draws upon his 20 years as a member of the House of Representatives during which he served on the following House Committees: Financial Services, Natural Resources, and Oversight and Reform.

During that time, he also served as Chair of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection and Financial Institutions; the Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance; Chairman of the Subcommittee on Information Policy, Census, and National Archives of the Oversight and Reform Committee. Congressman Clay was a member of the Congressional Black Caucus (which his father co-founded), the Congressional Progressive Caucus, the U.S. Congressional International Conservation Caucus, the Congressional Arts Caucus, and a current board member of The National Democratic Club.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Importance of diversity in the AI workforce and role of HBCUs and community colleges. * AI's potential to reduce biases, especially in financial services like housing and credit. * The need for international standards and legislation for AI policy. * Prospects of bipartisan immigration reform in relation to AI talent recruitment. * Dual-edged nature of AI in education, balancing enhancement and depersonalization. * AI's impact on social justice, environmental justice, and sustainable energy solutions.

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: * Linkedin + https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-mcnerney-6484501/ + https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-lacy-clay-jr-aa37b2213/

  • Website
  • Jerrymcnerney.org
  • https://www.pillsburylaw.com/en/lawyers/jerry-mcnerney.html

  • https://www.pillsburylaw.com/en/lawyers/lacy-clay.html

  • Other Guest URLs

  • www.theaitrust.org

  • URLs mentioned in podcast recording

  • https://www.nist.gov/standards

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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What drives someone to leave their home country and overcome immense challenges to achieve academic and professional success abroad? Join us as we chat with Angel Contreras Cruz.

Angel is from Oaxaca, Mexico. He received his B.S. in Industrial Engineering (2004) and M.S. in Regional Development (2015) from the Oaxaca Institute of Technology. Angel moved to the United States in 2015 and recently obtained his Ph.D. in Engineering Technology Management from Portland State University (06/2024). His doctoral dissertation proposes a hierarchical decision model to evaluate immigration policies for technology professionals.

Explore the potential of a hybrid immigration system that marries point-based and employment-based models, a topic Angel passionately advocates. Discover how such a system could meet both technological and economic demands while staying current with advancements. Angel discusses his ongoing research projects, including a book on immigration and entrepreneurship, and underscores the importance of collaboration between policymakers, industry leaders, and academic institutions. We wrap up with valuable resources for those interested in immigration research and advise listeners to stay informed through various platforms, ensuring they have the tools needed for a successful relocation journey.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Angel Contreras Cruz's journey from Oaxaca, Mexico, to earning a PhD in Engineering Technology Management at Portland State University.
  • The transformative impact of learning English and pursuing higher education in the United States.
  • Insights into Angel's research on immigration policy, focusing on social integration and economic contributions of immigrants.
  • Policy considerations to enhance diversity, inclusion, and retention of skilled immigrants.
  • Exploration of a hybrid immigration system combining point-based and employment-based models.

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/angel-contreras-cruz-a94b72109/

Website - https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=UEM-kb4AAAAJ

https://pdxscholar.library.pdx.edu/open_access_etds/6627/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Maria Varmazis is the host of T-Minus Space Daily Podcast, co-host of the Hacking Humans podcast, and a frequent guest on numerous technology and cybersecurity podcasts. She is an artist, podcaster, journalist, and content creator with over 15 years of experience in telling stories that engage and delight. She is always happy to geek out over space and cybersecurity, both professionally and personally!

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Influence of science and engineering in Maria's upbringing * Transition from dreams of astrophysics to a career in computer science * Navigating cultural and linguistic challenges as a child of immigrants * Diversity issues in the space and cybersecurity industries * Cultural norms and challenges in cybersecurity and space sectors * Future trends and advancements in global space exploration by 2030 and beyond

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Linkedin - linkedin.com/in/varmazis

Websites -

  • https://space.n2k.com
  • https://thecyberwire.com/podcasts/hacking-humans
  • https://mvarmazis.com/

https://space.n2k.com/podcasts/t-minus/278

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Join us for an in-depth exploration of the complex world of tech startup funding. This podcast delves into the intricacies of early-stage financing, from pre-seed to Series B rounds, offering invaluable insights for entrepreneurs and investors alike.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The overview of funding stages in this current market environment: Pre-seed, Seed, Series A, and Series B * Understanding SAFE notes vs. priced rounds * Navigating the current defensive investment climate * Key metrics investors look for at each stage * The impact of market corrections on valuations * Challenges faced by underrepresented founders * The importance of founder-market fit and team composition * Legal and financial considerations for startups

Whether you're a first-time founder or a seasoned entrepreneur, this podcast provides actionable advice on structuring deals, avoiding common pitfalls, and positioning your startup for success in today's competitive landscape.

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Linkedin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsey-mignano-477a0167/

Website

https://www.ssm.legal/lindsey-s-mignano.html

URLs mentioned in podcast recording

https://nvca.org/model-legal-documents/

https://carta.com/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Jonathan Grode serves as the U.S. Practice Director and Managing Partner for Green and Spiegel. Jonathan has worked continuously in the U.S. business immigration law field since 1999 and has amassed considerable experience obtaining nonimmigrant and immigrant visas for new company start-ups, professional workers, artists and entertainers, athletes, physicians, and scientific researchers.

In addition, Jonathan has significant experience dealing with Department of Labor and Department of Homeland Security enforcement actions as well as immigration related aspects of Mergers and Acquisitions.

If interested, reference the initial conversation with Jonathan Grode here.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * AI's potential to reduce costs and change billing practices * SWOT analysis framework applied to legal practice * Future of AI-driven systems in immigration * Economic implications of immigration and demographic trends * Adapting legal practices amidst political and technological changes

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Linkedin

https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-and-spiegel-us/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-grode-2556629/

Website

https://www.gands.com/en-us/contact-us/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees * Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3 * Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Join us as we delve into the world of cybersecurity and compliance with Ryan Bonner, helping startups navigate the complexities of federal contracts and grants.

In this episode, Ryan briefly discusses NIST and then dives into data stewardship as an asset for early stage startups. He focuses particularly on those working with Controlled Unclassified Information, various types of government contracts and grants, including SBIR/STTR grants and Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs), as well as the significance of export controls for foreign nationals in your startup.

Whether you're a tech entrepreneur building commercial space technologies or focusing on AI, finance, healthcare, or any industry with data security concerns, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you stay ahead of the compliance curve while growing your business as an asset along the way!

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Importance of safeguarding intellectual property in defense contracts * Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and FAR CUI rule impacts * Data stewardship strategies for startups handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) * Department of Justice's focus on False Claims Act prosecutions in cybersecurity compliance * Navigating export controls for international tech startups

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rybonner/

Website - www.defcert.com

info@defcert.com

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this podcast episode, Kevin, the founder of Founders Network, shares his journey from an MBA graduate to creating a thriving peer mentorship organization for tech startup founders. Founders Network, established in 2011, supports 650 members across 25 chapters worldwide, focusing on connecting founders with support, capital, hosting retreats, and fostering a high-touch community. Kevin further reflects on his early experiences in the startup world, contrasting the dynamic and exhilarating environment of a startup with the more rigid corporate world. He emphasizes the unique challenges founders face, such as the intense commitment and the hidden costs of startup life, while also highlighting the importance of maintaining relationships and building a supportive community.

He also mentions 3 "unicorn" startup founders who are a part of Founders Network.

Solomon Hykes - Docker

Hubert Palán - Product Board

Ricardo Amper - Incode

Kevin shares more insights on the Founders Network Fund and how “Founders Network members have started 2000 companies; the top 10% raised $200M+ in funding and the top 20 have generated $20B in value.”

The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of startups over the years, the role of Silicon Valley, and the global expansion of tech ecosystems. Kevin emphasizes the value of Founders Network as an authentic community where founders can share experiences, seek support, and not face the startup journey alone. The episode concludes with insights into the core values of humility, authenticity, and reciprocity that define the network and its members.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Exploration of Silicon Valley’s unique support ecosystem for tech founders. * Discussion on the rise of tech hubs in Lisbon and India, and the globalization of the tech scene. * Advice on scaling startups with US venture market insights and leveraging senior US talent. * Introduction to the Founders Network Fund, a $5 million initiative for early-stage tech founders. * Analysis of startup valuations, especially in the AI sector, and geographical influences on funding.

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Kevin Holmes LinkedIn Company Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/966432

Founders Network Website - https://foundersnetwork.com/

FN Fund Website - https://foundersnetworkfund.com/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In our conversation with Representative McNerney, we explored the latest trends and challenges in the field of Artificial Intelligence and its policy implications. We touched on various pressing issues, such as employment displacement, social unrest, and public policy, which AI has the potential to transform.

To address these concerns, Representative McNerney suggested tax benefits, government grants, and partnerships between community colleges, businesses, and local governments. He emphasized the importance of balancing the benefits of AI with the need to protect national security, public safety, and American life.

We also discussed the energy sector and AI's potential to increase efficiency and reduce carbon emissions through forecasting, short-term and long-term. The Representative highlighted the government's role in promoting development, infrastructure, and flexible energy sources.

Regarding risks and challenges, we addressed infrastructure risks, the consequences of relying too heavily on AI, and the need for a balanced approach to immigration and AI. Representative McNerney stressed the importance of high-skilled immigration for the tech industry's growth and competitiveness.

In the context of global competitiveness and AI research, he advocated for reasonable policies at the border, government support, and investment in education. We also touched on the pressing issue of infrastructure, specifically electricity and broadband access, where AI can play a crucial role in better forecasting and management.

The Representative expressed concerns about environmental sustainability and AI-generated job displacement and income inequality. To address these concerns, he suggested income sharing agreements, ownership, microentrepreneurship, and low-code tools.

In his parting thoughts, Representative McNerney offered words of wisdom, encouraging listeners to find something they like, be the best, and demand services when hard times come. This podcast summary provides a concise overview of the pressing issues and opportunities in AI policy and its implications for American life.

Listen in to our full conversation with Representative McNerney to learn more about AI policy issues and opportunities, and the potential solutions to address the challenges and benefits of this transforming technology.

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: * Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-mcnerney-6484501/ * Website - Jerrymcnerney.org * Other Guest URLs - www.theaitrust.org

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Explore the secrets of immigration law with Dan Berger, a partner at Curran, Berger & Kludt, and an immigration fellow at Cornell Law School. Learn how Dan's personal journey and professional experiences have shaped his approach to immigration issues, and how innovative ideas can still emerge amidst Congressional stalemates. Discover the fascinating initiatives he’s spearheading at Cornell, including a groundbreaking DACA clinic aimed at navigating employer-sponsored options.

Explore the complex intersection of immigration status and employment in the tech sector. Understand the hurdles faced by undocumented students and graduates, especially when it comes to export control licenses. Hear about the promising avenues for employer-sponsored visas and the crucial role nonprofit clinics play in opening doors for DACA recipients. Gain insights into the streamlined processes and the current legal landscape for those under DACA and TPS.

Dan shares real-life examples and expert advice, emphasizing the indispensable nature of personalized guidance in the immigration process. Whether you’re an aspiring immigrant, a tech professional, or an entrepreneur, this episode sheds light on navigating the intricate web of immigration laws and policies.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Dan Berger's personal journey into immigration law and his career highlights * Innovative ideas in immigration policy despite Congressional gridlock * Challenges faced by undocumented students and graduates in the tech sector * Role of nonprofit clinics in supporting DACA recipients and tech employment

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-h-berger-2584a758

Website - www.cbkimmigration.com

https://www.lawschool.cornell.edu/faculty-research/faculty-directory/dan-berger/

Unleashing international entrepreneurs to help the U.S. economy recover from the pandemic | Brookings

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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What if the future of AI could mimic human consciousness? Sit down with us for an enlightening conversation with Steve Wood, a prominent US patent attorney who brings a unique blend of geology, electrical engineering, and space law expertise to the table. Learn how Steve’s early passion for space evolved into a distinguished career in tech commercialization and entrepreneurship. Get expert insights on patent prosecution, technology licensing, and federal compliance requirements, with a deep dive into the Bayh-Dole Act and its impact on the ownership and commercialization of federally funded inventions.

We then turn our focus to the cutting-edge world of neuromorphic computing, exploring its potential to revolutionize AI and self-driving cars. From Tesla’s current lane-keeping limitations to the pioneering work being done at SUNY Albany College for Nanotechnology Science and Engineering, Steve sheds light on the incredible advancements in neuromorphic chips and sensors. Discover how technologies like event-based cameras and memristors could lead to the creation of more efficient and compact neural networks, bringing us closer to truly autonomous vehicles.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Exploring patent law and tech transfer * Advancements in neuromorphic computing * Envisioning the future of AI and consciousness (ex. Cortical Labs’ DishBrain) * Exploring space law and patents

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Website: https://velawood.com/attorney/steven-wood/

Other Guest URLs

https://www.uspto.gov/about-us/events/dialogue-intellectual-property-and-space-commercialization

https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7163723630995066880/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yrs8H2XDllw&t=14s

Image from Valentine’s: https://www.alcorn.law/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Steve-Wood-Image.jpeg

Social Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenwood1spacelawyer1patentattorney/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey Reichelt

  • Episode 169: Startup Sustainability: Legal Lessons and the Climate Crisis with Sam McClure

  • Episode 185: Transforming Space Sustainability into a Viable Business: Insights from Daniel Porras

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Imagine pivoting from a culinary career to becoming a prominent immigration lawyer. That's exactly what Jason Susser did. From growing up with an esteemed immigration lawyer mother to making a dramatic career shift from the culinary arts to law, Jason's story is a testament to following one's true calling. We also discuss the critical role of community and mentorship in supporting founders navigating the complex immigration system.

The landscape of H-1B and O-1 visas for entrepreneur-founders is shifting, and it’s essential to keep up. Jason and I break down the recent changes in USCIS's employer-employee relationship definition, especially for those who are 100% owner-founders. We also tackle the prevailing wage requirements and the unique advantages of the O-1 visa for entrepreneurs. You'll hear our real-world experiences with international entrepreneur parole and how the U.S. stacks up against countries like Canada in supporting global founders. Additionally, we explore the unpredictable nature of visa adjudications, sharing firsthand accounts of successes and setbacks in O-1, EB-1, and EB-2 NIW visas.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Specialized immigration practices and startup visas * Conflicting immigration program requirements * AI tool for attorneys * Inconsistencies in immigration case approvals * Ethical considerations in government filings

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Website: https://www.visalaw.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-susser-940b11126

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 147: Navigating the EB-2NIW Journey with Nadia Zaidi

  • Episode 164: REPLAY: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition

  • Episode 181: Balancing Business and Justice: Fiona McEntee on U.S. Immigration and Startup Law

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Can space debris trigger an international crisis? Join us as we uncover the intricate world of space law and policy with Daniel Porras, Corporate Counsel and Director of International Government and Regulatory Affairs at Rogue Space Systems. Daniel shares his expert insights on the escalating participation of private enterprises in space and the labyrinthine legal frameworks governing satellite operations. With up to two million new satellites expected by 2030, the conversation delves into the urgency of establishing clear international regulations to prevent conflicts and ensure the longevity of space missions.

Imagine a world without GPS – our economic stability and security hanging by a thread. This episode underscores the critical reliance on GPS for essential functions, from financial transactions on Wall Street to daily navigation. We explore the dire consequences of a GPS system failure, be it from solar flares or hostile acts, and spotlight the environmental and commercial dangers posed by anti-satellite weapon tests. Through the lens of Russia's controversial 2021 test that jeopardized the International Space Station, we examine the persistent challenges in managing space debris and ensuring space security. We also underscore the importance of fostering global talent and innovation to propel the space industry forward.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Future of space law and policy * GPS impact on economy and security * Space debris cleanup and international diplomacy * Space sustainability and law overview

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: https://swfound.org/media/207263/secure-world-foundation_space-sustainability-infographic.pdf

https://swfound.org/news/all-news/2022/06/swf-releases-new-infographic-on-anti-satellite-weapons-and-space-sustainability/

All I Need To Know I Learned in Kindergarten by Robert Fulghum-page-001.jpg

https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/lsereviewofbooks/2012/06/17/elinor-ostroms-work-on-governing-the-commons-an-appreciation/

https://www.alcorn.law/podcast/sap171/ Cynda Secure World Foundation

https://space.n2k.com/podcasts/t-minus/278

His book: https://www.amazon.com/Walk-Tale-Written-Sand/dp/B0CGWX3WZ7

Website: https://rogue.space/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-porras-a1a340250/

Email: daniel.porras@rogue.space

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey Reichelt

  • Episode 168: Into the Cosmos: Space Startups, Regulatory Hurdles, and Pioneering Tomorrow with Bryce Kennedy

  • Episode 171: Navigating Space Governance, Peace, and Inclusive Leadership

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this episode, we’re joined by Michelle Hanlon, the Executive Director of the Air and Space Law Program at the University of Mississippi and co-founder of For All Moonkind, to discuss the burgeoning field of space law. Michelle offers a unique glimpse into the legal landscape governing our cosmic ambitions.

Learn about the challenges and implications of the current space treaties, the absence of immigration laws for space, and what this means for the future of space travel and asteroid mining. Michelle delves into the stringent Planetary Protection Protocols outlined in the Outer Space Treaty and their role in preventing contamination of celestial bodies. We also touch on the concept of space heritage, drawing parallels to Earth's conservation efforts, and examine the insufficient protection of lunar landmarks under current international law.

With government support helping startups thrive, Michelle predicts a normalized human presence on the moon by 2050 and discusses the broad spectrum of opportunities in the space economy. From specialized spacesuits to agriculture solutions, the possibilities are endless. We also explore how everyday skills on Earth, like cooking and teaching, have valuable applications in space.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • The complexities and implications of current space treaties and the absence of immigration laws for space
  • The stringent Planetary Protection Protocols and their role in preventing contamination of celestial bodies
  • Legal challenges of innovations like bacteria that convert metal into soil on Mars
  • The concept of space heritage and the insufficient protection of lunar landmarks under current international law
  • Predictions for the future of the space industry, including a normalized human presence on the moon by 2050
  • How everyday skills on Earth have valuable applications in space

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Website: forallmoonkind.org

Social Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-l-d-hanlon/

X: @hanlonesq

Instagram: @spacelawyerhanlon

Facebook: Michelle Slawecki Hanlon

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 171: Navigating Space Governance, Peace, and Inclusive Leadership

  • Episode 173: In Orbit with Alice Carruth: Insights on Space Exploration, Communication, and Innovation

  • Episode 176: Foreign Workers & Export Controls in the Space Industry: Insights from Jack Shelton

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Ever wondered how successful tech founders keep their mental game strong? Dr. Gina Gorlin, a clinical associate professor turned psychologist for ambitious innovators, joins us to share her unique journey and insights. We discuss overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing our identities as founders, and the importance of identifying and leaning into our strengths. Gina brings a wealth of knowledge from her transition from traditional psychology to working with driven individuals who are shaping the tech landscape, offering invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

The path to founding a company is rarely straightforward, riddled with uncertainty, trial and error, and inevitable mistakes. We unpack these natural parts of the entrepreneurial process, juxtaposing the polished success stories seen in the media with the messy reality. Our conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability and sharing real experiences, providing reassurance that founders are not alone in their challenges. We also dive into the builder's mindset and founder wisdom, exploring the fascination with biohacking and the drive to extend lifespans.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Overcoming imposter syndrome in founders * The impact of failure on entrepreneurship * The myth of suffering for success * Decoupling suffering from greatness * Embracing mental health challenges * Early morning meditation benefits and biohacking

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: builders.genagorlin.com (my Substack)

genagorlin.com/coaching.php (founder coaching)

Invest Like The Best #336 Jeremy Giffon: Special Situations in Private Markets (Spotify) (Apple))

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang On Building Resilience With Pain and Suffering

Social Links:

Social media: @Gena_I_Gorlin (Twitter), https://www.linkedin.com/in/genagorlin/

Email: gena.gorlin@gmail.com

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 151: Exploring Global Growth Strategies for EU Founders with Daniel Zawarczynski

  • Episode 165: Foreign Roots to Silicon Valley Heights: The Exit Journey of International Founder Alfonso de la Nuez

  • Episode 170: Strategic Expansion for Founders: Lessons from Serial Entrepreneur David Rose

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Unlock the secrets to successful transatlantic startup expansion with insights from Dan Glazer, the dynamic leader of the US Expansion Group at Wilson Sonsini's London office. Listen to Dan's personal narrative of moving from the US to the UK and his early love affair with London, as well as his instrumental role in initiatives like Tech Nation and the British American Project.

Navigate the intricacies of raising venture capital across borders as Dan shares strategies for smoothing cross-border deals through integrated legal teams and the importance of training dual-qualified lawyers. Discover how the influx of American venture funds into London is changing the fundraising landscape for UK and European startups, and learn key tactics to attract US-based investors, including the critical role of having a strong product market fit in the US.

Explore the nuances of global venture capital and the strategic considerations for expanding into the US, from the location of talent and proximity to customers, to cost implications and managing teams across time zones. Dan underscores the transformative potential of AI, paralleling it to the dot-com era, and offers practical advice for startups aiming to build a transatlantic presence.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Strategies for raising venture capital across borders * Market size impact on early stage fundraising * Signals to raise from US investors at an early stage * 8 considerations for US business location

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Wilson Sonsini’s US Expansion and Fundraising FAQ link: https://medium.com/@daniel.glazer/u-s-expansion-and-fundraising-a-comprehensive-faq-3bf143cd5249

Website: www.wsgr.com

Social Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielcglazer/

Email: daniel.glazer@wsgr.com

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 139: Why Choose the L-1 for Startups with Nadia Zaidi

  • Episode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey Reichelt

  • Episode 165: Foreign Roots to Silicon Valley Heights: The Exit Journey of International Founder Alfonso de la Nuez

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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What if compassion and entrepreneurship could go hand in hand? Join us as we sit down with Fiona McEntee, an Irish immigrant and the managing attorney of McEntee Law Group, to explore how her journey to the United States shaped her career in immigration law. Fiona shares her inspiring path, from participating in an exchange program and studying law in Chicago to becoming a passionate advocate for startup founders.

Hear firsthand accounts of the human challenges behind visas and green cards, including Fiona's poignant experiences during the Trump administration's Muslim ban. Witness the resilience of startup founders in healthcare and technology spaces and the grassroots efforts that arose when policies threatened their dreams. We dissect the chaotic scenes at airports and the emotional toll on families, emphasizing the critical role of volunteer attorneys like Fiona who stepped up during times of crisis.

As we move into practical strategies for navigating business immigration amidst policy changes, Fiona provides essential insights into the Biden administration’s supportive measures, such as the O1A visa and international entrepreneur parole. We delve into her advocacy work, including changes to the International Entrepreneur Rule and her efforts to make complex immigration issues understandable for children through her books.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The human stories behind visas and green cards * Impact of immigration policies on the economy * Navigating business immigration amid changing policies * Supporting immigrant founders with VC funding * Advocating for immigration reform * Defining the American Dream

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Book: U.S. Immigration Options for Startups: Accelerate Your American Dream

Children’s Book: Our American Dream

Website: https://mcenteelaw.com/

Social Links:

Instagram: @usvisalawyer

YouTube: @McEnteeLawGroupImmigration

X: @USVisaLawyer

TikTok: @immigrationlawyerfiona

LinkedIn : Fiona McEntee, J.D.

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 39: Startup Law with Attorney Lindsey Mignano * Episode 166: IP Insight: Safeguarding your Startup with Sanjay Prasad * Episode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey Reichelt * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code EAB20 for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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What if you could be at the forefront of the next industrial revolution – this time, in space? Join us as we sit down with Chris Reichelt, the dynamic VP of Operations at Mach33 Financial Group, who seamlessly transitioned from an Air Force pilot flying missions to the Arctic Circle to becoming a leading investment strategist in the space sector. Chris's fascinating journey from an aspiring astronaut to a finance expert offers a rich tapestry of experiences and insights. We'll explore the commercial opportunities within space, drawing parallels to the American industrialization era, and uncover the pivotal role of strategic capital allocation in advancing space technologies.

Imagine moon vacations, space-based data centers, and quantum-secured communications by 2045. In this episode, we paint a vivid picture of the future of space technology, highlighting emerging innovations from lunar imaging to fuel depots that could redefine satellite lifespans. Chris also shares invaluable advice on startup funding timelines, the best U.S. locations for space ventures, and the importance of building effective teams. We delve into notable investments in pioneering companies like SpaceX and Relativity Space, offering a roadmap for science-focused entrepreneurs eager to navigate the complexities of business and sales in this exciting frontier.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Insights on the space industry and innovative investments for next-gen technologies * The state of space technology in 2045 * Emerging technologies like quantum time synchronization and cryptography * Nature's extended timelines and capital requirements * Building complementary teams for space tech founders

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Website: https://www.33fg.com/

Social Links:

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-reichelt-57ba19109/
  • X : @ChrisReichelt7

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 154: The Deep Tech Investment: Inner Space, Outer Space, and Startup Investing with Danny Crichton

  • Episode 168: Into the Cosmos: Space Startups, Regulatory Hurdles, and Pioneering Tomorrow with Bryce Kennedy

  • Episode 171: Navigating Space Governance, Peace, and Inclusive Leadership

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Discover the powerful intersection of law, technology, and entrepreneurship as we sit down with Roman Zelichenko, an ex-immigration attorney turned tech innovator. Roman’s journey is nothing short of inspiring – from his early days in finance, finding a surprising passion for immigration law, to becoming a key player at Fragomen.

Learn how his experiences as an immigrant from Ukraine shaped his determination to streamline and improve the immigration process through the creation of LaborLess, a groundbreaking tech startup, and GMI Rocket, a marketing agency devoted to helping immigration firms thrive in the digital era.

Roman shares invaluable insights from his transition from immigration law to the fintech world, a move that armed him with the business knowledge necessary to launch his own ventures. Hear about the unique challenges and opportunities he encountered, as well as his practical advice for future entrepreneurs on maintaining financial stability while developing a startup. We also delve into the critical role his marketing agency plays in supporting global mobility professionals, emphasizing innovative strategies that bridge the gap between human stories and business.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Career transition from immigration law to fintech consulting * The human side of working with immigration lawyers * The impact of generative AI on the legal industry * LaborLess and GMI Rocket overview * How immigration tec is ripe for investment and innovation

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: https://gmirocket.com/gmi-courses/digital-marketing-for-the-immigration-industry-2021-2023/

Websites:

  • LaborLess: http://www.laborless.io
  • GMI Rocket: http://www.gmirocket.com

Social Links:

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/romanzelichenko-electronic-lca-posting-public-access-file/
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rzelichenko/
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roman.zelichenko

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 135: The Future of Work with Dr. Sankar Venkatraman

  • Episode 149: Tech for Good: Impact Investing in the Digital Age with Chintan Panchal

  • Episode 154: The Deep Tech Investment: Inner Space, Outer Space, and Startup Investing with Danny Crichton

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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What inspired a leading New York City immigration attorney to carve out a niche in the startup ecosystem? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Sam Newbold, whose passion for international human rights led him to the intersection of law and entrepreneurship. Discover how Sam turned his interest in humanitarian work into a thriving career, navigating the complexities of immigration law during a pivotal time for foreign entrepreneurs, especially in the vibrant New York startup scene.

We break down the intricacies of L and EB-5 visa cases, focusing on the unique challenges faced during and after the Trump administration. From the increased scrutiny on venture capital funding to the involvement of agencies like FinCEN, Sam shares invaluable insights and practical advice on leveraging government grants, university partnerships, and economic development corporations. Listen in as we explore how these resources can support immigrant founders in securing their entrepreneurial dreams.

Lastly, we delve into the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program and compare it with the EB-1A green card category, highlighting their respective benefits and challenges for tech startups. Sam reveals the nuances of capital requirements, job creation mandates, and the recent legislative changes impacting these visa programs. We also touch on the Biden administration's executive order on artificial intelligence and its implications for national interest waivers in STEM fields. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamic field of startup immigration law.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Navigating L and EB-5 visas for immigrant entrepreneurs * EB-5 investor visa for startups * Updating EB-2 Schedule A for STEM * EB-1A vs EB-5 Green Card Comparison * Understanding government scrutiny on venture capital funding

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: https://engineering.nyu.edu/research-innovation/entrepreneurship/nyu-tandon-future-labs

https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/27/ask-sophie-whatever-happened-to-international-entrepreneur-parole/

Website: https://www.csglaw.com/people/samuel-newbold/

Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuelnewbold/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 72: Special Visas for Talent from Specific Countries

  • Episode 106: How to Set Up Your Company for Immigration Success

  • Episode 172: Turning Adversity into Opportunity: Faris Alami’s Path from Refugee to Entrepreneur

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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When immigration law expert Jonathan Grode stops by, we don't just talk policy – we dissect the very fabric of American innovation and its lifeblood: immigration. Jonathan brings to the table a wealth of knowledge, passionately delving into how entrepreneurs thrive in the U.S.'s unique culture of risk and resilience. Our conversation spans the critical role immigrants play in the nation's economic engine and the urgent need for policies that nurture this dynamic, against the backdrop of a shifting political climate and demographic landscape.

We reveal the cracks and constraints in the U.S. immigration system – from the restrictive H-1B visa cap to the employment-based green card quotas. Taking a page from Canada's immigration playbook, we propose a vision for a more nuanced and adaptive framework – one that can keep pace with technological advances and the rapid evolution of industry needs.

Jonathan also shares profound insights into the human and philosophical side of immigration law. We explore how passion and personal branding can carve out a rewarding cross-border career, and celebrate the 'skinny NIW' experiment's trailblazing success, redefining the legal landscape. This episode is not just a discussion about policy – it's a homage to the connective power of global communities, and a clarion call for ongoing dialogue in the ever-evolving realm of immigration law.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Immigration’s role in boosting American innovation and economic growth * Canada's immigration policies vs. the U.S. system * Population decline and the need for strategic legal pathways * A look at the 'skinny NIW' experiment for highly skilled tech professionals * Personal branding and passion in immigration law

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: https://www.gands.com/en-us/contact-us/

Facebook:@GreenSpiegelUS / https://www.facebook.com/GreenSpiegelUS/

LinkedIn: @green-and-spiegel-us https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-and-spiegel-us/

Twitter (X): @GreenSpiegelUS / https://twitter.com/GreenSpiegelUS/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 080: Working for U.S. Startups from Canada with Marc Pavlopoulos

  • Episode 122: U.S. Immigration Policy with Stuart Anderson

  • Episode 147: Navigating the EB-2NIW Journey with Nadia Zaidi

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Venture into the enthralling realm of space law and export controls with our latest episode, featuring Jack Shelton, co-founder of Aegis Space Law. Jack began his career in maritime law, working for ocean carriers, and he currently focuses on export controls and contracts for the commercial space industry.

Jack takes us on a stellar journey from his early days fascinated by the intricacies of maritime law, to his serendipitous discovery of a YouTube video that launched his career into the cosmos of space legalities. Together, we dissect the unique challenges faced by small space enterprises and delve into the necessary legal agreements that keep their celestial ventures afloat. Discover the nuanced responsibilities of safeguarding sensitive technologies and intellectual property, ensuring that the stars align for both compliance and innovation.

Dive into U.S. export control regulations and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities that govern the sharing of technical data and foreign partnerships. Jack spotlights the sizable impact these regulations have on securing Small Business Innovation grants and delineates the pivotal role they play in protecting interests across international lines. Come away equipped with the knowledge of what actually constitutes an 'export' and why vigilance is paramount in these interstellar negotiations.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Supporting small businesses in the space industry * American ownership requirement for grants * Foreign engineers on US space projects * Investigation of company compliance * Navigating entry into the US space industry * Navigating green card and export controls

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: https://www.youtube.com/@aegisspacelaw

https://www.instagram.com/spacelawyerjack/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-shelton/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 157: Space is Our Future, with Christopher Hearsey

  • Episode 168: Into the Cosmos: Space Startups, Regulatory Hurdles, and Pioneering Tomorrow with Bryce Kennedy

  • Episode 173: In Orbit with Alice Carruth: Insights on Space Exploration, Communication, and Innovation

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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As I sat down with Deb Dutta, the visionary behind Criya, her story unfolded like a tapestry of resilience and innovation. From her early days on an F1 visa to becoming CEO of a groundbreaking AI startup, Deb's journey is a powerful narrative of an immigrant founder's rise in the tech world.

Deb opens up about the meticulous dance of securing an EB-1A visa amidst a challenging political landscape, and how this experience honed her skills in storytelling – a tool she believes is crucial for professional advancement. This dialogue isn't just about business strategies but also the human experience of finding one's voice in the digital age and the cultural tightrope walked by those promoting their work with authenticity and poise.

The art of personal branding takes center stage as Deb shares the philosophy behind Criya, transforming how professionals can showcase their personal brand with AI's helping hand. Her insights are a masterclass in navigating the complexities of today's fast-paced digital environment, where making a lasting impression is both an art and a science. Deb discusses the balance of guiding young minds through the maze of societal judgment while encouraging them to stay true to their convictions.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Deb’s immigration story and creating Criya * Navigating the immigration maze and productization * Celebrating success with Paypal * Personal branding for professional success * Facilitating PR for aspiring applicants * Mastering investor pitch decks

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: https://www.criya.co/

https://www.instagram.com/debduttaofficial/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deboshree-dutta/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 089: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association

  • Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US

  • Episode 170: Strategic Expansion for Founders: Lessons from Serial Entrepreneur David Rose

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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When the entrepreneurial spirit calls, few tales resonate as deeply as Lior Klisman's ascent with Sentant, his IT security startup. On today's show, Lior shares the thrills and spills of the startup journey, from the seed of an idea to the cusp of a significant company exit. It's a dance of determination and serendipity, where networking isn't just shaking hands – it's about real, authentic exchanges that can make or break your venture. Lior's personal insights provide a goldmine for fellow founders, and he gives us a sneak peek into his next venture, Borderless, which pledges solidarity with immigrant entrepreneurs.

Adapting to Silicon Valley's cultural tides requires more than just a business plan; it's an art form that Lior has mastered. Lior's military intelligence background adds a unique perspective to the conversation, providing sage advice for meshing into Silicon Valley's distinct social fabric. His five crucial tips are like a navigational compass for any new arrival aiming to make their mark in the Bay Area. Listen in as we discuss the transformative power of community and the intrinsic value of human connection, challenging the notion that financial success is the ultimate goal.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Startup exit success story * Hourly billing inspired by law firms * Transitioning out after private equity acquisition * Embracing change and cultural diversity * Building relationships in community * Building borderless communities through passion

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: www.liorklisman.com

www.linkedin.com/in/liorklisman

www.borderless.club

www.sentant.net

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 146: Access to Innovation: Founders and the Blockchain with Samuel Ekpe

  • Episode 151: Exploring Global Growth Strategies for EU Founders with Daniel Zawarczynski

  • Episode 170: Strategic Expansion for Founders: Lessons from Serial Entrepreneur David Rose

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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When Alice Carruth's voice first graced the airwaves with the T-Minus Space Daily podcast, little did she know it would skyrocket in popularity, much like the industry she meticulously reports on. Her journey from quiet beginnings to producing daily space news captures the essence of our latest conversation, where she captivates us with tales of satellites weaving through our day-to-day lives and private sector giants like SpaceX charting new courses for humanity.

Embark on a personal voyage with me as I recount my transition from television production to the vibrant space communications arena, all while navigating life's unexpected turns from the UK to New Mexico. We delve into the rich space heritage of my new home and how the right place at the right time led to a thriving career at Spaceport America. Alice and I reflect on the serendipitous moments that can define our professional journeys and why New Mexico has become a beacon for space industry mavens and startup founders alike.

This is a discussion that orbits around the crucial role of space in global development and personal empowerment – one that will leave you contemplating the stars and our place among them.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Exploring the global impact of space * New Mexico space career journey * Space entrepreneurship and communication * Importance of communication in startups * Shaping a better future through space

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Alice's podcast: T-Minus

U.S./Australia Agreement

N2K Space

Spaceport America Cup

Cynda Collins Arsenault (referenced in the podcast)

Social Media handles:

Instagram: @tminusdaily or @alice.carruth

Alice Carruth on LinkedIn

N2K Space on LinkedIn

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 157: Space is Our Future, with Christopher Hearsey

  • Episode 168: Into the Cosmos: Space Startups, Regulatory Hurdles, and Pioneering Tomorrow with Bryce Kennedy

  • Episode 171: Navigating Space Governance, Peace, and Inclusive Leadership

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Faris Alami's incredible life story unfolds in this episode, as he recounts his transformation from a Palestinian refugee to a notable entrepreneur and leader. His narrative is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and showcases the profound impact of vision and hard work. In a revealing conversation, Faris takes us through his early adversities during the first Gulf War, the cultural and educational challenges he faced in the United States, and the entrepreneurial triumphs that followed. His founding of International Strategic Management and advising roles offer a beacon of hope and a roadmap to success for anyone with the courage to follow their dreams.

This episode is a treasure trove for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those from underserved communities or immigrant backgrounds. Learn how Faris's innovative two-page business plan and strategic insights have empowered numerous minority entrepreneurs to overcome cultural barriers and networking gaps. We shine a light on the crucial influence that entrepreneurs have, not just within local communities in the U.S. but on a global scale. Faris's journey epitomizes the philosophy of 'Start Where You Are,' proving that with the right mindset, even the most modest beginnings can lead to remarkable achievements.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * From refugee to entrepreneur * Supporting underserved entrepreneurs and communities * Startup funding and networking strategies * Importance of entrepreneurship in communities * Resilient entrepreneurial leadership insights

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Social Links for Faris

LinkedIn

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

Social Links for ISM

LinkedIn

Facebook

Instagram

Books

Start Where You Are

Power of 7 in Marketing

Courses

Power of 7 Marketing Program—My ISM Inc

The Resilient Entrepreneur Course | International Strategic Management

Podcast

Finjan Show

Publication

“When Adversity Becomes an Advantage”

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 089: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association

  • Episode 145: Financial Freedom and the Near-Future of Venture Capital with Asra Nadeem

  • Episode 159: From Founding to Funding: Understanding Venture Capital Potential with Kristen Ostro & Nicole Fuller

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Embark on a transformative journey with Cynda Collins Arsenault, the philanthropic mind behind Secure World Foundation and Our Secure Future, as she shares her inspiring vision for a world where outer space serves as a conduit for global peace. This episode traverses Cynda's voyage from activism to entrepreneurship, revealing how she meshes the pursuit of personal success with the quest for societal betterment.

We also delve into the critical challenges of space debris management, the development of anti-satellite test regulations, and the exhilarating prospect of the Secure World Foundation's Space Sustainability Summit, which fosters groundbreaking dialogue and collaboration among space industry stakeholders.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Building a peaceful future through collaboration * Shifting mindsets in the space sector * Empowering women in leadership roles * Empowering women for a better future

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Secure World Foundation - www.swfound.org

Our Secure Future - Women Make the Difference - www.oursecurefuture.org

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey Reichelt * Episode 168: Into the Cosmos: Space Startups, Regulatory Hurdles, and Pioneering Tomorrow with Bryce Kennedy * Episode 154: The Deep Tech Investment: Inner Space, Outer Space, and Startup Investing with Danny Crichton * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Ever wondered how to crack the code of US market expansion? Join us as David Rose, CEO of US Expansion Partners, shares the playbook for international founders to hit the ground running in the competitive American business landscape. His stories from scaling startups to lucrative exits are packed with wisdom on market timing, intuition, and the art of making your move at just the right moment. David's journey from Fortune 500 beginnings to startup stardom is a masterclass for entrepreneurs looking to make their mark.

Venture capital can seem like a world shrouded in mystery – and David is here to reveal the intricate dance between VCs and founders. We discuss the pressures of managing investment funds and the significance of forging personal connections in this high-stakes ecosystem. He offers strategic insights into navigating VC relationships and the importance of due diligence before stepping into the venture capital arena.

David unfolds an actionable roadmap for startups ready to take on the adventure of US expansion. We delve into the readiness scoring system that could signal your company's perfect timing to enter the US domain. And for those outside the Silicon Valley bubble, learn how to leverage your network and tap into essential human elements that could open doors to funding opportunities.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Venture capital and entrepreneurship insights * Founder and CEO empathy and connections * Product market fit for international expansion * US expansion for European startups * Launching a startup in the US

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: eBook: https://www.usexpansionpartners.com/essentials-for-us-expansion-ebook

Site Selection Tool: https://www.usexpansionpartners.com/quiz

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US * Episode 146: Access to Innovation: Founders and the Blockchain with Samuel Ekpe * Episode 151: Exploring Global Growth Strategies for EU Founders with Daniel Zawarczynski * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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How do startups maneuver through the complex intersection of law, sustainability, and innovation? Sam McClure, a beacon of environmental advocacy and Stanford Law lecturer, joins me to unwrap this intricate puzzle, sharing his transition from a government career to fostering eco-conscious businesses.

As we traverse Sam's journey and the evolution of Stanford's pro bono legal aid for startups, you'll be privy to tales of resilience and the profound impact of environmental stewardship across professional endeavors. We examine the gritty realities of co-founder dynamics and client relations, shedding light on the virtues of patience, humility, and the power of human connections that often turn legal challenges into growth opportunities. We also delve into the subtleties of non-verbal communication and how our behaviors can either erode or cultivate trust and leadership within our teams – insights you won't want to miss for your own professional toolkit.

From algae farming to solar energy, learn about the exciting legal frontiers these innovative ventures face and how they're paving the way for a future where business success and environmental health go hand in hand. Join us for an episode that's not just about legalities and startups, but a journey towards a greener tomorrow.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Stanford Startup Law Sustainability Program * Navigating co-founder and client relationships * Leadership, trust, and self-care practices * Long-term views on the climate crisis * Circular economy and sustainability startup trends * Navigating sustainability and law

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: https://law.stanford.edu/sam-mcclure/

https://law.stanford.edu/startup-law-sustainability

https://www.cedargrovecounsel.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Leadership-Self-Deception-Getting-Out-Box/dp/1523097809/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=580751260451&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9031968&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=7134004013860384827&hvtargid=kwd-307853283104&hydadcr=22595_13493276&keywords=leadership+and+self-deception+book&qid=1707334425&sr=8-1

Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box

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Have you ever envisioned the vast reaches of space as humanity's next frontier? Bryce Kennedy, the visionary at the helm of the Association of Commercial Space Professionals, joins us for an enthralling journey through the evolving cosmos of space exploration and regulation.

From the inception of a specialized Space Regulatory Bootcamp to his personal odyssey from law to space pedagogy, Bryce sheds light on how startups can steer clear of regulatory black holes and shares his dream of a society navigating the stars. Together, we contemplate the revolutionary leap for humanity as our celestial ambitions become an extension of our daily existence.

We chart the course of constructing legal scaffolding to support the celestial leap of our species – where a Zen outlook meets the drafting tables of lawmakers. With maritime law as our North Star, we delve into how historical seafaring codes influence modern space legislature, the role diversity plays in drafting these cosmic rules, and how treaties like the Outer Space Treaty anchor us. From the non-weaponization of space to the conceptualization of extraterrestrial safety zones for mining ventures, we ponder the legal fabric that might hold together our interstellar tapestry.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Star Trek's impact on space * Transcendence and unity through meditation * Visas and green cards for founders * Safety zones and ownership in space * Space startups facing regulatory challenges * Impacts of space technology on earth * Humanity's hope for space exploration

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: https://acsp.space/abq24bootcamp/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 154: The Deep Tech Investment: Inner Space, Outer Space, and Startup Investing with Danny Crichton * Episode 157: Space is Our Future, with Christopher Hearsey * Episode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey Reichelt * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Let’s delve into the world of international startups and their journey to mastering the U.S. market. In this episode, I’m thrilled to have Brian Frumberg, the CEO and founder of VentureOut. We unlock the strategies and insights necessary for global startups to thrive in the competitive landscape of American business. Whether you're an entrepreneur dreaming of Silicon Valley or a seasoned founder looking to expand, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom on navigating venture capital and establishing a successful presence in the U.S.

As international innovation collides with American enterprise, we dissect the intricate relationship between global startups and U.S. market dynamics. Succeeding in the U.S. is not just about who you know, but how you grow your business with specialized tactics and sector-specific support. If you're an international entrepreneur eyeing the U.S. market, prepare to be armed with the knowledge and confidence needed to venture into the U.S. with strategic finesse after tuning in to our conversation with Brian Frumberg.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The positive impact of international startups on the U.S. economy * Why success is more than networking - it's about specialized growth tactics * The art of fundraising with a sales mindset * Strategies and challenges for immigrant founders in the U.S. * Leadership's role in establishing market fit

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: VentureOut

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 139: Why Choose the L-1 for Startups with Nadia Zaidi * Episode 162: From Earth to Orbit: A Dialogue on Startups, Export Control, and Space Law with Bailey Reichelt * Episode 165: Foreign Roots to Silicon Valley Heights: The Exit Journey of International Founder Alfonso de la Nuez * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Unlock the secrets of intellectual property law and elevate your startup with the wisdom of Sanjay Prasad, a maestro in the IP legal field. If you're an entrepreneur looking to stand your ground in the innovation arena, this is the essential listening you've been searching for. Our engaging discourse delves into the dynamic realms of IP, from trademarks that thrive with use to the strategic timing of patent filings.

Sanjay, with his wealth of expertise, unveils the subtle complexities of keeping your trade secrets under wraps and leveraging patents as the heavyweight champions of protection in the entrepreneurial ring. As a founder, you're constantly charting new territories, and understanding the global landscape of IP is your map to success.

We dissect the role of provisional patent applications in securing visas for your team's brightest stars and the art of wielding patents in the competitive market, even before they mature into enforceable rights. Sanjay guides us through the labyrinth of international IP protection, offering sage advice on where to plant your patent flags and how to maximize your business fortress against invasive competitors.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Foundational set-up considerations for entrepreneurs * History and process of patent ownership * Intellectual property and public domain protection * Patent filing and enforcement process

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Appleton Luff's website: appletonluff.com

Sanjay's linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/prasadip

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 152: Startup Funding Decoded: Securing the Investment with Michael Avent * Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US * Episode 143: Free Money and Funding Your Startup with Sedale Turbovsky * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Embark on an entrepreneurial odyssey with Alfonso de la Nuez, the visionary co-founder behind UserZoom's jaw-dropping $810 million acquisition by Thoma Bravo. From the roots of a modest Spanish startup to the fruits of a $100 million ARR (Annual Recurring Revenue) behemoth, Alfonso's tale is one of grit, innovation, and the cultural bridges crossed in Silicon Valley's vibrant startup landscape. His transition from CEO to advisor, post-merger with UserTesting, is a lesson in adaptability and strategic foresight – a narrative that reveals the heart of an industry in flux and the transformative power of user experience insights.

The Spanish startup ecosystem's dramatic evolution serves as the backdrop to our conversation with Alfonso, painting a vivid picture of Spain's recent renaissance in entrepreneurship. He delves into the psychological pivot as Spanish entrepreneurs embrace stock options and financial participation and how significant exits such as his are revolutionizing the perception of wealth and ambition. But it's not just about the money – the art of product-market fit and Alfonso's dual role in shaping product development and market strategy underscores the competitive edge that user experience has carved out, especially in a world reshaped by the pandemic.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Entrepreneurship and cultural shifts in Spain * Negotiations for majority control and investment * Building successful startup through transitions * Challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship * Motivation, culture, and startups

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees * Episode 89: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association * Episode 146: Access to Innovation: Founders and the Blockchain with Samuel Ekpe * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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It's the H-1B season!

Therefore, it's very important to create a comprehensive legal plan at the beginning of any case before filing any documents.

But how can you prepare a really strong H-1B petition?

In this episode, we discuss the legal elements of what an H-1B requires, the process, the timeline, and how to avoid Requests for Evidence.

We also touch on some specific job classifications that have been problematic in the past.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The 3 key elements of an H-1B * Some defining characteristics of the H-1B: prevailing wage, job description, etc. * Points you need to discuss with your immigration lawyer * Immigration documents and requirements for each candidate

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law Firm

For more information, get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook.

https://www.alcorn.law/allaboutH-1Bs

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees * Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3 * Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Imagine a world where the brightest tech minds from around the globe converge in the United States to innovate and drive our industries forward. That's the future Lindsay Milliken of the Institute for Progress envisions, and she sits down with us to outline how revamping Schedule A can make this a reality.

As we traverse the landscape of US tech immigration policy with Lindsay, we uncover her thought-provoking proposals designed to attract and simplify the hiring process for foreign talent, especially from underrepresented regions. She brings her research and advocacy to the table, sharing the potential impact on tech and startup job markets, while also introducing the Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp, helping those with exceptional skills navigate the complexities of US immigration.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Schedule A's impact on immigration * Navigating immigration pathways for healthcare professionals * Measuring labor demand for in-demand occupations * Flexible and transparent job shortage evaluation * Timeline and likelihood of regulatory change * Challenges with engineering and academic journals * Green card recapture and immigration policy

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Full Schedule A report IFP: https://ifp.org/schedule-a/#methodology-to-support-a-modernized-schedule-a-list

Our Washington Post op-ed: https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/12/14/labor-shortages-immigration-schedule-a/

My regulatory history of Schedule A: https://lawreviewblog.uchicago.edu/2020/09/22/milliken-schedule-a/

The current Federal Register post: https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2023-27938/labor-certification-for-permanent-employment-of-foreign-workers-in-the-united-states-modernizing - there'll be a new link when it is officially published (likely tomorrow)

The AI EO: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/10/30/executive-order-on-the-safe-secure-and-trustworthy-development-and-use-of-artificial-intelligence/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 155: Scaling Success: Leading Multicultural Tech Teams in the U.S. with Trista Taylor * Episode 159: From Founding to Funding: Understanding Venture Capital Potential with Kristen Ostro & Nicole Fuller * Episode 160: Startup Acceleration and Immigration Insights with SV Veteran Miles Randle * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Prepare for a voyage across the galaxies as we journey into the heart of space tech and export control regulations with our special guest, Bailey Reichelt. Bailey is a renowned space lawyer and founding partner at Aegis Space Law. She expertly guides us through the labyrinth of legislation surrounding commercial space technologies, revealing the intricate interplay between various government agencies. Promise to be enlightened on the importance of export controls, the crucial licensing prerequisites, and the fundamental role of regulatory bodies in this process.

As we chart a course through controlled technologies, we'll equip you with a comprehensive roadmap perfect for startups, entrepreneurs, and international students eager to make their mark in the space industry. Together, we'll unravel how to pinpoint if a technology is export controlled, and empower you with the knowledge to keep a finger on the pulse of the ever-evolving roster of controlled technologies. We also touch on the potential requirement of unveiling new technologies to the government. Remember, expert consultation makes all the difference when charting these challenging waters.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Controlled space technology legal landscape * International technology transfer and export regulations * Exploring restricted technologies and resources * Immigration and certification for foreign workers * International students in emerging technologies * Tech industry export control considerations

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Bailey's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/baileyreichelt

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 160: Startup Acceleration and Immigration Insights with SV Veteran Miles Randle

  • Episode 154: The Deep Tech Investment: Inner Space, Outer Space, and Startup Investing with Danny Crichton

  • Episode 157: Space is Our Future, with Christopher Hearsey

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Prepare for a deep dive into the world of startups as we explore the global startup ecosystem with industry experts Jeff Wallace and Ann Lee. In this intriguing episode, we kick things off with Jeff's unique Silicon Valley experiences, including his encounters with iconic figures Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. You'll also hear about my recent tour of the same region, providing a comprehensive understanding of what makes it a magnet for founders.

Joining the conversation, Ann Lee brings a fresh perspective on the challenges and benefits for international founders considering the U.S., particularly Silicon Valley, as a launchpad. Drawing from our collective experiences working with non-U.S founders, we provide invaluable insights into the competitiveness of Silicon Valley and why it may not be the ideal choice for every startup. Our advice? Thoroughly research, analyze, and understand your market before diving in.

As we navigate the startup world, we also reveal the secret sauce to a successful startup. We emphasize the importance of customer discovery and efficient resource management, dispelling the myth that personal preferences should guide solution building. Using examples from tech giants like Google and Amazon, we demonstrate how years of customer discovery and pivoting paved the way to their eventual success.

Finally, we examine the complexities of startup funding and the role of government in it. Capital is just one piece of the puzzle; the real game-changer is finding investors who offer more than just financial support. Don't miss this enlightening episode packed with industry insights and expert advice!

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Exploring human motivation in Silicon Valley * Inquiring about embedding solution on Mac * Korean startups expanding to US market * Expanding to us market challenges * Challenges of expanding pet registration business * The vibrant community of immigrant founders * The impact of startup ecosystem support * Silicon Valley's global influence

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: www.siliconvalleyinyourpocket.com

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Sophie Alcorn Podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Join us for a compelling chat with Miles Randle, a seasoned Silicon Valley start-up veteran, HR enthusiast, and tech nerd. Listen in as Miles unravels the Venture Seed Studio model, an innovative approach that aids founders in launching businesses with an all-rounded team of researchers, recruiters, and a portfolio team to support the initial stages of the start-up journey. Learn how this model differs from other startup paths and what key areas founders can focus on when working with a Venture Seed Studio.

Our conversation then transitions into an exploration of US Immigration's Impact on Startup Success. We shed light on how the immigration process can limit knowledge output and affect the velocity of founders reaching successful startup milestones. We also highlight the importance of partnering with organizations like the Extraordinary Ability Boot Camp to help with the immigration process. Lastly, we dive into the unique challenges faced by immigrant founders, the traits that contribute to a successful founder, and the significance of last mover advantage in an already saturated market.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Launching companies with collaborative support * Venture studios and recruiting immigrant founders * Considerations for choosing a startup program * Impact of immigration on startup success * Defining founder motivations and missions * Sales skills for engineers and founders

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 089: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association * Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US * Episode 154: The Deep Tech Investment: Inner Space, Outer Space, and Startup Investing with Danny Crichton * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Alcorn Academy course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Join us on a thrilling exploration of the venture capital universe with special guests, Kristen Ostro and Nicole Fuller from Strut Consulting. Promising to unlock the mysteries of emerging fund management, we'll guide you through the challenges, opportunities, and game-changing trends sweeping across this dynamic industry. We shed light on the importance of choosing the right service providers, the power of the LTO community, and how smaller funds can make a big splash in the market.

In this challenging and ever-evolving landscape, we discuss the importance of VC portfolio services, and how having informed investors can tip the scales in your favor. But how can smaller funds make a big impact? And why is it crucial to find the right investor for your business? We'll walk you through these questions and also examine the trends in fund raising, the growth of specialized funds, and the rise of personal brand GP's. From the challenges of the pandemic and banking crisis to the changes in the crypto and AI industries, we've got it all covered.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Supporting emerging fund managers * The importance of lto representation * Investor due diligence and partner selection * VC and technology trends and changes * Trends in fundraising and capital deployment * Revisiting choices in the future

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/company/strutconsulting

https://www.strutconsulting.com/

https://letstalkops.com/

https://www.strutconsulting.com/servicesmenu

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 140: Immigration Capital and Climate Change with Kieran White * Episode 089: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association * Episode 145: Financial Freedom and the Near-Future of Venture Capital with Asra Nadeem * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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From TechNet's beginnings, founded by John Chambers of Cisco and John Doerr of Kleiner Perkins, TechNet's members have been passionate about education and immigration. How can the U.S. attract and retain the best and brightest talent from around the world?

Join us as Sophie interviews TechNet CEO Linda Moore, a 30-year veteran of The White House, Capitol Hill, and five presidential campaigns. They discuss the U.S.'s economic skills gap and jobs opening crisis in the tech sector - there are over 650,000 job openings in cyber security alone. How can we reshape our immigration system to match our economic needs?

From recapturing unused visas and green cards to address the backlogs as well as providing a pathway for immediate green cards for STEM advanced-degree holders, Sophie and Linda talk about policy and practicality and the best strategy for getting high-skilled immigration reform bills through Congress.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Skills gap's impact on us job market * Immigration reform and tech hubs initiative * Advocating for high-skilled immigration reform * Future of AI policy in the U.S. * Appreciation and invitation for further engagement

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: TechNet: https://www.technet.org/

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 050: The Ideal U.S. Immigration System with Prof. Bill Hing * Episode 155: Scaling Success: Leading Multicultural Tech Teams in the U.S. with Trista Taylor * Episode 156: Moving at the Speed of Trust: Tech’s Role in Immigration Reform with Carman Nareau * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Have you ever pondered the legal implications of life beyond our earthly borders? Buckle up, as we take a deep dive into the cosmic intersection of space and immigration law with Christopher Hearsey, founder and CEO of OSA Consulting and chair of Space Court Foundation. Our discussion hovers around some touchy subjects, like extraterrestrial operations and the Outer Space Treaty, in a riveting exploration that sheds light on the potential conflicts between free access to space and territorial claims prohibition.

As our conversation orbits around the moon, we get into the nuts and bolts of operational challenges on its low-gravity environment and the grip export control laws have on human spaceflight in distress scenarios. Get insights into the complexities of export control regulations and the controversial politics festering in space life. And if you've ever wondered what it costs to vacation in outer space, we get into the nitty-gritty of that too.

Closing our cosmic discussion, we delve into the potential legal and ethical implications of establishing human settlements on the moon. From microgravity's effects on human physiology to potential immigration laws and settlements on the moon- we leave no stone unturned. Christopher also shares his thoughts on the media's role in shaping conceptions of space law and the need for peaceful space use. So, brace yourself for an out-of-this-world exploration and prepare to expand your understanding beyond earthly confines.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Space and immigration law intersection * Space claims and operational challenges * Export control and spaceflight training * Implications of space exploration and settlements * Law and governance in outer space

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hearsey/

https://www.spacecourtfoundation.org/

https://www.osaconsultingdc.com/

https://www.unoosa.org/oosa/en/ourwork/spacelaw/treaties/introouterspacetreaty.html

https://www.nasa.gov/specials/artemis/

https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceCourtFoundation

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees * Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3 * Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Meet Carmen Nareau, the spearhead of immigration technology at the famed Emerson Collective. Carmen's role at this influential organization thrives at the intersection of technology and policy, seeking to harness the power of tech to create systemic change in the complex field of immigration. As the orchestrator of groundbreaking tech solutions, ranging from advisory services to tangible product creation, Carman's work propels social impact in a direction that is as exciting as it is necessary.

Emerson Collective was founded by Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, and who continues to carry on an impactful legacy through her organization. The Emerson Collective focuses on various key issue areas such as immigration, education, environment, public health, and racial equity. Using a broad range of tools, including technology, they aim to find sustainable solutions that create systemic change.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Emerson Collective's Extraordinary Ability Boot Camp discussed immigration, trust-building, data, and technologists' role in reform. * The Intersection of Immigration and Technology: Creating an understanding between technologists and immigrants to create more inclusive policies. * Her advocacy for inclusive immigration policies * Using technology to support nonprofits and shifts in immigration and startup funding.

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: Emerson Collective

Carman's LinkedIn

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 41: Investing in Immigrant Entrepreneurs with VC Carmen Pallafox * Episode 063: Immigration, Global Mobility, Working from Home, and the Future of Work * Episode 155: Scaling Success: Leading Multicultural Tech Teams in the U.S. with Trista Taylor * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Ever wonder what makes a team highly effective? We're revealing the secrets with Trista Taylor, founder and CEO of Regroup and a former Google guru. Trista's deep dive into Project Aristotle, a landmark study at Google, unveiled five key factors essential to a team's success - psychological safety, structure and clarity, dependability, meaning, and impact. She shares how she harnessed these elements to cultivate a culture of innovation and growth at Google, and how it propelled her to venture into her own business, Regroup.

Go here to listen → https://www.alcorn.law/podcast/sap155

Trista's journey at Regroup is a testament to the power of effective team-building. She brings to the fore the necessity of fostering agency and psychological safety, in creating something larger than the sum of its parts. Emphasizing how crucial it is to interconnect who they're serving and what they're helping them with, Trista underscores the creation of meaning, impact, and agency in work, making every task more than just 'work'.

As we steer the conversation towards the intricacies of work culture and immigration in the US, especially amid the pandemic, Trista sheds light on how these factors can complicate remote work environments. Offering valuable advice on how to be inclusive and effective in welcoming immigrants, she stresses the importance of providing clarity, structure, and understanding diverse perspectives. And to all you aspiring team leaders out there, Trista has some golden tips on fostering psychological safety within your teams, and the importance of being kind and curious during one-on-ones. So, are you ready to transform your team dynamics?

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Operationalizing Project Aristotle * The five crucial qualities of successful teams * Trista’s journey of starting Regroup * The importance of connecting with customers * Creating culture and psychological safety in remote environments * Immigration complexities, and providing clarity and structure * Building highly effective teams

Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources: https://www.regroup.co/about

Trista Taylor's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tristataylor

Alcorn Immigration Law: * Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter * Sophie Alcorn Podcast: * Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees * Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3 * Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens * Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders * Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook * Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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We're taking you on a thrilling journey into the world of deep tech and hard science, with none other than Danny Crichton, an early-stage VC investor and editor-in-chief of securities at Lux Capital. With a compelling personal immigration story and a resume filled with cutting-edge tech investments, Danny's insights and experiences offer a fascinating window into this high-stakes world. We delve into the influence of new tools like Looms and Zoom on the startup pitching process, explore the shifting concentration of talent in key tech cities, and discuss the intriguing Lux Risk Gaming Initiative and its first scenario — a hurricane hitting Hampton Roads, Virginia, home to the largest naval shipyard and nuclear fleet in the US.

With the complexities of the US immigration system a hot topic, Danny offers invaluable insights from his own immigration journey, specifically focusing on the marriage visa process. Through the maze of paperwork, documentation, and ever-changing laws and regulations, we learn about the resilience, tenacity, and unwavering belief in the American Dream that fuels many immigrants' path to citizenship. We also tackle the industry's 'doer culture,' with Danny sharing his experiences in networking and relationship-building in the tech world.

Finally, imagine a world where climate migration impacts global populations and resources. Our conversation takes a riveting turn as we explore the intersection of climate and international security. We delve into the potential risks and consequences of policies like Arizona’s ban on new home construction and water usage in a desert environment. This riveting episode is sure to leave you with plenty to ponder. Don't miss out!

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Danny’s immigration story
  • Lux Capital's focus on deep tech investments
  • The Lux Risk Gaming Initiative
  • Building relationships in the tech industry
  • The importance of playing the 'positive game' when networking
  • The US immigration process and how distance can be relative
  • The complexities of climate migration and its impact on global populations

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Lux Capital: https://www.luxcapital.com

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 115: Building Resilience Through Immigration with Maurice Conti
    • Episode 149: Tech for Good: Impact Investing in the Digital Age with Chintan Panchal
    • Episode 153: Beyond Handshakes: Networking in the Silicon Valley Startup Ecosystem with Shawn Flynn
    • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
    • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
    • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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This week, I am joined by Shawn Flynn, an award-winning podcaster and business connoisseur who is an expert in the world of mid-market investment banking. We're rewinding the tape to our initial meeting and reminiscing about the extraordinary individuals who've transformed their dreams into reality right here in the dynamic Silicon Valley.

Our exploration leads us to an in-depth discussion about the importance of in-person networking in fundraising. Shawn and I spar over the dynamism of face-to-face meetings versus virtual conversations and reveal how physical meetups can be more beneficial while fundraising for startups. We also investigate some recent happenings in Silicon Valley and delve into Shawn's podcast, which focuses on early-stage fundraising and scaling startups.

Together, we venture into the intriguing domain of Mergers Acquisition Growth Capital, highlighting the widespread impact of Shawn's podcast on budding entrepreneurs worldwide. We evaluate the risks and rewards associated with US venture capitalists investing in foreign startups and delve into the cultural disparities in investment strategies between Silicon Valley and the rest of the world.
Listen in as we uncover the power of networking, the advantages and disadvantages of external capital, and the necessity of being top-of-mind in your network. Join us on this knowledge-packed voyage into international entrepreneurship. You wouldn't want to miss it!

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • International entrepreneurship and overcoming limits
  • In-person meetings in business relationships
  • Startup ecosystem and immigration strategies
  • Raising capital and expanding in us
  • Relationships and opportunities in silicon valley
  • The power of building a network

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

The Silicon Valley Podcast
https://thesiliconvalleypodcast.com/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 123: Entrepreneurship and Crypto with Kevin Chou
    • Episode 151: Exploring Global Growth Strategies for EU Founders with Daniel Zawarczynski
    • Episode 152: Startup Funding Decoded: Securing the Investment with Michael Avent
    • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
    • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
    • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Navigating the complex terrain of intellectual property is daunting, but essential for any startup looking to make headway in today's technology landscape. Mike Avent, a partner from Perkins, joins us to break down this crucial aspect, discussing the importance of invention assignment agreements, strategies to protect IP when developing on personal devices, and the potential fallout of leveraging resources from your current employer.

Venture capital, as exciting as it may be, is often riddled with jargon that can be difficult to decipher. Unravel the mystifying world of 83B filings, term sheets, safe notes, and the likes, with the expert guidance of Mike. We also highlight the severe consequences of failing to file an 83B form and share practical strategies to mitigate such risks. Mike brings clarity to the often confusing terms associated with venture capital investments and presents insights that you, as a startup owner, would find highly valuable.

With a deep dive into the world of convertible securities, we help you understand the difference between convertible notes and SAFEs and the potentially dilutive impact they can have on your shares. This discussion is crucial, especially when you are raising funds. We also weigh in on the importance of considering multiple offers, understanding the market, and identifying the right investor for your business. Mike comes with golden advice - how to structure your venture capital transaction, when to form a corporation, and how to navigate the complex corporate and immigration landscape. Tune in for a rich discussion that's bound to leave you with a wealth of practical insights.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Tech startups and immigration law simplified
  • Navigating governance and resource constraints
  • Understanding 83B filings and investment processes
  • Convertible securities and considerations for startups
  • Fundraising and considerations for founders
  • When to form a corporation

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Mike Avent, Perkins Coie

LinkedIn

Email Mike with promo code SOPHIE

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 89: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association
    • Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US
    • Episode 143: Free Money and Funding Your Startup with Sedale Turbovsky
    • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
    • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
    • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Imagine navigating a foreign terrain as you venture to launch your startup. Daniel Zawarczynski, Austrian Trade Commissioner for San Francisco and co-director of Open Austria takes us on a journey through the intricate landscape of the US tech ecosystem and his role in aiding Austrian startups to successfully penetrate it. He provides invaluable insights into the shifting focus of Austrian startups influenced by economic and geopolitical shifts, and the importance of comprehending the unique dynamics of the US market.

We then traverse the transatlantic differences between the US and European markets, discussing the challenges, and potential gains Austrian startups could face in their expansion endeavors. Daniel enlightens us on the changing VC market, the escalating AI ecosystems in San Francisco, and how old-school, in-person marketing can be a game-changer for startups.

Being 'born global' has been a buzzword in the startup sphere but what does it truly mean? We discuss this concept and the aims of the Open Austria Startup Landing Zone program, offering an unfiltered look into the cultural contrasts between Austrian and US entrepreneurship. We also underscore the significance of confidence, market analysis, and the power of a compelling narrative for founders. Rounding up our enlightening conversation, we delve into the cruciality of a reliable network and nurturing trusted partnerships. Daniel shares his wisdom on how startups can build these crucial connections and leverage them for success. Tune in to equip yourself with these key insights.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Austria's role in transatlantic trade
  • Austrian startups and European market focus
  • European startups' importance to US visas
  • Exploring alternative funding and support options
  • Building confidence in pitching
  • The future of global citizenship

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Open Austria
https://www.open-austria.com/

Open Austria's Startup Landing Zone
https://www.austria.org/news/austrian-start-up-landing-zone-in-san-francisco

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
    • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3
    • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens
    • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
    • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
    • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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What happens when two brilliant minds from the finance and tech sectors come together to revolutionize the way we connect talent and companies? In today’s episode, we sit down with Hubert Dagbo and Jide Osan, the co-founders of Equipt, to discuss their inspiring journey and vision behind their innovative startup.

Learn how Hubert and Jide's long-lasting friendship, and their individual professional backgrounds, have shaped Equipt's mission to foster collaboration and enable humanity to reach its full potential. Their unique perspectives, from their families' immigration stories to their experiences in the global market, have informed their determination to create meaningful connections in the professional world. Don't miss their valuable advice for aspiring founders on learning from failures and seeking mentorship.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Forming real connections, not just growing your connection list on LinkedIn * Bridging the gap between what you learned in school and the real world * How Equipt’s platform works * Big learnings from the layoffs * Their immigration stories * Taking the extra step to stand out * How to benefit from accelerator programs

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Equipt

https://www.joinequipt.com/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 146: Access to Innovation: Founders and the Blockchain with Samuel Ekpe

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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What if your investments could change the world for the better? Join us as we explore the power of impact investing in tech with attorney and entrepreneur lawyer Chintan Panchal. Listen in as Chintan shares his journey from working at a prestigious international law firm to founding his own practice, RPCK, in New York. Discover how his experience working on a pro bono case representing detainees in Guantanamo Bay inspired him to find more meaningful and fulfilling work in the realm of corporate and finance transactions.

We dive deep into the importance of impact investing and how it enables individuals to make a difference, regardless of their geographic location or citizenship. Learn about the concept of abundance and how it can be applied to deal-making and business relationships. If you're an aspiring entrepreneur or startup founder, you don't want to miss this episode.

Get ready to be inspired as we discuss the powerful impact of entrepreneurship and impact investing in our world. Find out how technology can amplify and accelerate solutions to global problems, and learn about the various funding opportunities available to US for-profit technology startups. We emphasize the importance of entrepreneurs in driving real change and the need for a partnership between them and those who have the resources to support their endeavors. Tune in and discover how you, too, can make a difference through your investments and entrepreneurial pursuits.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Tech impact investing for immigration law * Purpose-driven law firm and impact investing * Abundance philosophy in impact investing * Abundance and deal-making philosophy * Entrepreneurship and impact investing

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
  • Episode 124: International Students & Professionals Succeed with Robert Adams
  • Episode 122: U.S. Immigration Policy with Stuart Anderson

  • Episode 135: The Future of Work with Dr. Sankar Venkatraman

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by David Hardwick to talk about the state of the economy and jobs – and everything going on for startups in terms of hiring and recruiting. There have been so many changes in this area over the last six months that’s why I’m excited to have this conversation.

David is the principal recruiter for early-stage startups, and founder of Hardwick Technical Recruiting, which helps software engineers, data scientists, and people for product roles at early-stage and rapidly growing companies.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • What leads to hiring and scaling engineers
  • How to build a strong startup team
  • Be practices for remote and hybrid teams to onboard and retain new talent when recruiting
  • How technology will impact recruiting

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Supporting Resources:

Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-hardwick-4596a0/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
  • Episode 93: Recruiting with Beth Scheer
  • Episode 118: Should I sponsor engineers I’m recruiting for green cards?
  • Episode 127: Tech Recruiting with William Tincup
  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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On this episode of the Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by Nadia Zaidi to discuss EB-2 second preference employment-based immigrant visa I-140 petition. The petition allows individuals whose work is in the national interest to skip the PERM process and obtain an EB-2NIW green card.

This type of green card is unique because it does not require the applicant to be extraordinary, making it a great option for individuals born in India or China. This pathway has opened more doors and has become much more accessible. Tune in to learn more about this exciting opportunity.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What is the EB-2NIW? * Navigating the green card process * Proving extraordinary ability * The three prongs of EB-2 * Tips for imagining the impact of your work in the future

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Supporting Resources:

Legal Launch

https://www.alcorn.law/legal-launch/

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp

https://witty-author-184.ck.page/6aa580311b

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
  • Episode 38: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp Course

  • Episode 142: Successfully Financing Your Startup in the U.S with Matteo Daste

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by Samuel Ekpe, the CEO and co-founder of Grupa.io, with a mission to democratize access to innovation. Grupa strives to get startups to work with the best talents and the best products built on Grupa – making it an entire ecosystem rather than a marketplace. At Grupa, you can hire expert developers and pay them with equity. By creating this level playing field for entrepreneurs of all backgrounds, Grupa hopes to empower people to create new solutions that are innovative and beneficial for society as a whole.

Today, Samuel shares his experience as an international startup founder and immigrant presently living and working in California. Getting your visa and green card is like this whole chicken and egg thing with money and company, funding and investors, and proving your legitimacy to the U.S. government. It’s a long road, but if you really want to do it, then you’ve got to start now.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The Silicon Valley in the cloud * Setting up the foundation for his company * The challenge of getting a visa when you’re from Lagos * Finding his co-founder * The importance of looking at technology shifts and changes * The ultimate vision for Grupa

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Grupa.io

Angel: How to Invest in Technology Startups by Jason Calcanis

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
    • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
    • Episode 89: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association
    • Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US
  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Angel: How to Invest in Technology Startups--Timeless Advice from an Angel Investor Who Turned $100,000 into $100,000,000

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by Asra Nadeem, the co-founder of Opus AI, a streaming platform powered by proprietary technology that turns text into movies in real time. She is also the CEO of Entrepreneurship Programs at Draper University where she has invested in over 30 early-stage companies. She is the first woman venture capitalist from Pakistan.

Asra believes that talent is evenly distributed across the world and that there are brilliant and enthusiastic individuals worldwide who want to make a difference in the world. However, access to capital is a major hurdle for these individuals, which is abundant in the U.S. As a result, Asra is motivated to find ways to bridge this gap and support these eager, brilliant individuals in realizing their visions and empowering more entrepreneurs and innovators from diverse backgrounds to create impactful solutions and drive positive change at a global scale.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What education and capital get you in an emerging market * Understanding the venture capital model * Using technology to create things * The glamorization of venture capital and raising money * Fundraising as a sales process

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Supporting Resources:

https://www.asranadeem.com/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
  • Episode 89: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association
  • Episode 140: Immigration Capital and Climate Change with Kieran White

  • Episode 142: Successfully Financing Your Startup in the U.S with Matteo Daste

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by Rolando Villalobos, former Director for the Bechtel International Center of Student Affairs at Stanford University where he helped international students for over 32 years. He has reviewed and directed all of the services to almost 6,000 international students and their family members.

Listen in as we discuss how you can navigate immigration as an international student. At the end of the day, you are responsible for your legal status as an international student. And so, you have to take due diligence in doing all the research you need as you go through this process. You've got to have a good foundation when you step foot in the United States and be sure to maintain legal status.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Questions to ask your DSO * Things you need to consider as an international student * The 24-month STEM extension * How to qualify for STEM OPT * Other rules and considerations when applying for STEM OPT * Thoughts on experiential learning

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
  • Episode 26: F-1 Students and Work
  • Episode 123:Entrepreneurship and Crypto with Kevin Chou

  • Episode 124: International Students & Professionals Succeed with Robert Adams

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by Sedale Turbovsky, the CEO of OpenGrants, a company that makes grants and public funding more equitable, accessible, and transparent, especially for businesses and early-stage startups.

If you’re an international founder, whether in the U.S. or outside, and looking for startup funding in the U.S., there are various options available, even coming from for-profit entities. Now, this can all tie into becoming more qualified for an O-1 visa, an EB-1 visa, a green card for extraordinary ability, or an EB-2 National Interest Waiver green card.

Grant funding, also known as free money, usually doesn’t require a repayment, nor is the ownership of your company going to be reduced. That being said, there are certain conditions you need to be aware of before going down this route. While grant funding is abundant, in terms of utility, it is not easy to use for a lot of different reasons.

For the purpose of this discussion, this episode focuses on the U.S. landscape since the grant funding ecosystem in the United States functions differently than the grant funding ecosystem in other places and around the world.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Why OpenGrants was created
  • What is a grant: scope, timeline, how to be grant-ready
  • Venture capital vs. grant funding
  • The main buckets of impact for grant funding
  • Avenues for grant funding

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Supporting Resources:

OpenGrants.io

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
  • Episode 15: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp
  • Episode 38: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp Course

  • Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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Post-pandemic, we’re now seeing a large influx of entrepreneurs and startup founders coming over to the U.S. But what does it take to raise money in the U.S.? Maybe you’re thinking of getting venture capital in the U.S., or perhaps creating a company in your home country and expanding it in the U.S.

In this episode, Matteo Daste joins us today to talk about the current landscape in the startup ecosystem both in the U.S. and in Europe. Matteo is the partner and the head of the Northern California ECVC (Emerging Companies and Venture Capital) practice at Mayer Brown. With over 15 years of experience as a corporate finance attorney, Matteo holds expertise in technology startups. He has gone through the whole immigrant thing himself, and he helps advise international startup founders on all things corporate startup law, from formation to exit transactions, Delaware flips, and more.

Matteo also shares his own immigration story and background moving from Italy to Silicon Valley, and the work he does today to help international founders and investors.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • His personal immigration experience and his legal career background
  • How innovation is born out of a recession
  • Changes in the startup landscape
  • Incorporating and owning equity in a company in the U.S.
  • European vs. the U.S. startup ecosystems
  • Terms for creating your next startup
  • The landscape for raising capital over the next six months

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Supporting Resources:

https://lombardstreet.vc/

https://www.dayoneventures.com/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
  • Episode 089: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association

  • Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by Lynda Hagerty, our Chief Legal Officer for Excellence at Alcorn Immigration. We talk all about the H-1B lottery and we'll be covering everything you need to know to tackle the H-1B lottery in 2023. If you have not started already, your preparation begins now!

Whether you're hearing about it for the first time, you're new to HR and it's your first time for your company or you're just trying to figure out what's next, the H-1B is an opportunity for a company to sponsor a foreign national employee for a professional position and get work authorization. The trick with the H-1B is the first time you secure it, you have to go through this whole lottery process, which only has a very small window. If you think this is your next step, listen in to know more about what it entails to apply for one.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Overview: timeline, sponsorship, job qualification, wage rates * Types of specialty occupations and examples of jobs that have pushback on * Education requirements and exceptions * Who is the H-1B best for? * The best next step to pursuing a green card and how the process works * Benefits of the H-1B * Eligibility of companies in order to participate * How the electronic registration system works * Your odds in the lottery process and processing trends

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B
  • Episode 30: H-1B Nitty Gritty #1: Transfer, Extensions, Amendments in Tech

  • Episode 31: H-1B Nitty Gritty #2: H-1B Transfer for Startup Founders

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by Kieran White, CEO and co-founder of Return Protocol, a blockchain tech startup that empowers consumers, businesses, and communities to take transparent and value-aligned climate action.

Kieran shares how his company has fundraised for his U.S. immigration journey, and what it's like to be a startup founder in climate tech. Kieran actually did the Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp online, a program that helps people, who have zero accomplishments, understand visas like the O-1A, EB-1, and EB-2. Kieran recently got stamped with an O-1 visa and he’s coming to the U.S. soon!

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * His decision to start his own company * How he fundraised his way to the U.S. * Why he chose San Francisco * Navigating carbon markets and crypto as a startup founder * What’s next for him and his company

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Linkedin: Kieran White

Return Protocol

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
  • Episode 38: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp Course
  • Episode 44: 7 of the Most Startup-Friendly Visas Explained
  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by Nadia Zaidi our expert on writing-intensive hard cases for startup founders, as we talk all about the L-1 visa and all it entails – the path to the green card, who qualifies and who doesn't, and more.

The L-1 visa is for intracompany transferees, including managers, executives, and workers with specialized knowledge. This is an episode for people who already have an operating business in a country besides the U.S. and you need to send people to the US to either start a new business, raise funding for your startup, or open a sales and marketing branch.

The L visa is not the first visa type that would come to mind for a founder. But in some cases, a company may already have incorporated an entity abroad, they want to scale and break into the U.S. market but they're not willing to shut down their foreign business. Hence, this is a great option for multinationals.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • When to consider an L visa and who qualifies for an L-1 visa?
  • What “specialized knowledge” means
  • Choosing between an L-1 visa vs E-2 visa
  • Visa classification for the founding team
  • What happens to immigration after a Delaware flip
  • The importance of having an org chart for new offices
  • How to get a head start on the EB-1C pathway

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources:

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
    • Episode 021: Intracompany Transfers – L-1 Visas and EB-1C Green Cards for Multinational Managers, Executives, and People with Specialized Knowledge
    • Episode 44: 7 of the Most Startup-Friendly Visas Explained
    • Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US
  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, we’re going to switch things up a bit since I’m the one being interviewed. I’m going to share who we are at Alcorn Immigration Law, why we began this podcast and the work that we do to support immigrants from all over the world to create wealth, abundance, and opportunities so they can enjoy freedom, prosperity, and peace of mind in the United States.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The birth of Alcorn Immigration Law * What drew me to pursue a niche in immigration law of tech startups * Assisting startup founders as a part of the spiritual mission * Getting clear on what the outcome is: strategy and preparation * The value of communication and celebration * Our ideal outcome and client * What Alcorn’s future looks like

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: National Venture Capital Association

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
  • Episode 39: Startup Law with Attorney Lindsey Mignano
  • Episode 89: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association
  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by Lynda Hagerty, our Chief Legal Officer at Alcorn Immigration. We're ringing in the holiday season with some gratitude. We are looking back at 2022 with an appreciation for all the good things that came to us in the air and yet another busy year for immigration.

We're also sharing our take on some of the best updates to the immigration process in 2022. It has been a very monumental year with a lot of positive developments. We've had a lot of ups and downs in the area of immigration law and we believe we're headed in a very positive direction.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Why there were fewer requests for evidence this year * The expansion of premium processing categories * The interview waiver: process and eligibility * What the expansion of STEM OPT means * Development of status for L and E status * The 540-day EAD extension for H4 * New STEM guidance for O-1 Extraordinary Ability visa applicants * Our hope for immigration for 2023

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: National Venture Capital Association

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 129: H-1B Trends with Robert Bouchard, The H-1B Guy
  • Episode 133: Navigating Visa Interviews with Mandy Feuerbacher
  • Episode 132: H-1B’s in 2023 with Lynda Hagerty
  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by Jed Kodner, a talent partner for both DFJ Growth Venture Capital and Threshold Ventures, advising portfolio companies on identifying, attracting, and retaining world-class talent. Named on Business Insider's list of the 25 must-know recruiters at top VC firms, Jen is highly experienced in talent acquisition at companies including Andreessen Horowitz, Comcast Ventures, Box, and Adobe.

People are your biggest asset. Without talent, your business is not going to be successful. Listen in as Jen talks about the importance of being intentional with achieving a higher-level talent acquisition with an early focus on diversity. She shares some keys to attracting, identifying, retaining, and motivating brilliant people in your team, as well as some best practices for hiring in different countries and geographies.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How companies can have an early focus on diversity * Changes in pay transparency * The current state of the talent landscape * Why lean into people you want to keep * Hiring people who need immigration sponsorship * How to prevent yourself from getting fired from your job as a founder

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: https://dfjgrowth.com/

https://threshold.vc/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 044: 7 of the Most Startup-Friendly Visas Explained

  • Episode 72: Special Visas for Talent from Specific Countries

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by Dr. Sankar Venkatraman. With over 14 years of leadership roles in Product Marketing, he is now a global workforce expert who built and managed award-winning marketing programs.

A global evangelist for LinkedIn, Dr. Venkatraman educates us on, not only workplace transformation but also digital transformation with the role of AI. He also talks about the big shift to this portfolio career in the future of work, where the average Gen Z will have 12 to 14 careers, not jobs. You can be an immigration advocate, while also being a podcaster. An artist could, at the same time be a dance instructor, or have a job at a corporate company.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What he does as a LinkedIn global evangelist * The portfolio career and the workplace transformation * The impact of AI on the future of work * Continuous learning is the key skill of the employee of the future * Why the whole definition of the idea of work is going to change * How LinkedIn is addressing the network gap

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Leadership Mountain View

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 63: Immigration, Global Mobility, Working from Home, and the Future of Work

  • Episode 103: A Futurist’s Lens on Immigration – Future of Work, Climate Change, and More with Jamais Cascio

  • Episode 126: The Future of Work with Jason Sosa

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this special edition of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I'm joined by expert attorney Lynda Hagerty as we discuss the mass layoffs in Silicon Valley. Thousands of laid-off individuals are on work visas and it's definitely a stressful time. We’re going to talk about all of the ramifications and what all this means for the state of immigration in the United States.

Twitter has laid off nearly 50% of its workforce and many names in tech are expected to follow, including big tech companies like Meta, Microsoft, and Intel. So far 416 startups and tech-oriented companies in the U.S. have laid off individuals between April and October compared to only 20 in the first quarter. There are also several hiring freezes taking place at Apple and Amazon, as well as a looming crypto winter with NFT and cryptocurrency exchange marketplaces like Robinhood and Coinbase, letting go of 20% to 30% of their workforce.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • What it means for companies doing layoffs
  • What it means for the people being laid off and their spouses, and alternative options available
  • How this impacts the PERM process
  • An option for green card self-petition
  • What to keep in mind if you’re looking to start a tech startup in the U.S.

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 129: H-1B Trends with Robert Bouchard, The H-1B Guy
    • Episode Episode 131: Immigration and the Future of Human Flight with Guanhao Wu
    • Episode 132: H-1B’s in 2023 with Lynda Hagerty

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

View Details

In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by former U.S. diplomat and State Department Consular Officer, Mandy Feuerbacher, to talk about how you can navigate visa interviews. Mandy currently runs Argo Visa, a startup consisting of a team of 25 other former consular officers who work with immigration professionals and individuals seeking visas to guide them through the consular visa interview process.

As consulates are opening up again, more and more in-person interviews are happening. Although only a very small percentage of people get problems at the interview, you still have to prepare for the interview because the cost of those problems is tremendous. It’s not worth the risk to just hope that it all turns out okay or that the consular officer shows up in a good mood that day. It’s all a human communication process. So you have to make sure you come prepared and you’re able to communicate your intentions and purpose well.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • How her experience as a consular officer shaped her understanding of immigration law
  • How to be proactive during the visa interview process
  • USCIS interviews vs. consular interviews
  • How consular officers balance the country’s needs for international students
  • How Argo Visa is helping clients
  • Recommendations for remote interviews
  • Understanding the different types of administrative processing cases

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources:

Argo Visa

https://www.argovisa.com/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
    • Episode 26: F-1 Students and Work
    • Episode 61: The Immigration Journey with Navroop Sahdev
    • Episode 124: International Students & Professionals Succeed with Robert Adams
  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

View Details

In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by Lynda Hagerty, our Chief Legal Officer for Excellence at Alcorn Immigration Law, as we discuss everything you need to know about getting ready for the next H-1B season, which officially starts now. We talk about some of the most important frequently asked questions about H1-Bs.

Lynda is a business immigration attorney who has been practicing business immigration law for about 20 years with boutique-style firms. It’s great to hear her perspective on H-1Bs as well as some tips on how people can start preparing for the coming H-1B lottery season.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What is an H-1B? * The benefits of an H-1B visa * Educational degree levels and job types for an H-1B * The H-1B timeline: filing and lottery * Present challenges related to getting H-1Bs * Other options to get visas in other countries

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
    • Episode 099: H-1B Planning for FY2023
    • Episode 104: H-1B FY2023 Lottery Planning
    • Episode 129: H-1B Trends with Robert Bouchard, The H-1B Guy
  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

View Details

In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by Guanhao Wu, a leader in the future of human mobility. In immigration, we talked about visa mobility, and there are also self-driving cars that you might hear of for mobility in startups. But Guanhao has something very special in the future of human mobility.

Guanhao is the founder and CEO of Exovolar Industries, an aerospace engineering company that aims to take humanity to the skies. Today, Guanhao talks about how he designed a hands-free, wearable, air mobility system that allows humans to effortlessly navigate the sky. In other words, they make people fly, literally. Guanhao also talks about his immigration journey from a STEM OPT to an O-1 visa for entrepreneurs.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How the movie Iron Man inspired him to choose mechanical engineering * Mechanisms to control balance in the air * Getting into the Techstars program * Understanding how everything in a startup is a funnel * How safe is their product * The impact they want to have on the world * Guanhao’s immigration journey

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Exovolar Industries

https://exovolar.com/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 13: Show the Love: Family-based Alternatives for Technology Professionals

  • Episode 89: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association

  • Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by Jamais Cascio, a futurist and distinguished fellow at the Institute for the Future, a nonprofit group based in Palo Alto, California. In his work, Jamais determines plausible outcomes for the future. He's also a writer who focuses on the intersection of emerging technologies, environmental dilemmas, and cultural transformation.

Jamais was also here back in Episode 103 where we talked about his BANNI framework (brutal, anxious, anxious, nonlinear, and incomprehensible), which is an alternative framework to see the world compared to the VUCA framework. Today, we talk about immigration and climate change, the metaverse and the future of work.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * An overview of the BANNI framework * The history of the metaverse * An equalization of income: is this possible? * The future of global migration * Looking at the world beyond technology * What it means to be in a nonlinear world

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Institute for the Future

https://www.iftf.org/home/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
  • Episode 103: A Futurist’s Lens on Immigration – Future of Work, Climate Change, and More with Jamais Cascio
  • Episode 63: Immigration, Global Mobility, Working from Home, and the Future of Work
  • Episode 56: Global Innovation with Tim Draper
  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

View Details

In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by Robert Bouchard, also known as The H-1B Guy. Rob has reported the latest news on the H-1B visa and status, as well as other employment-based immigration paths.

With a background in the human resources and global IT recruitment industries, Rob developed his expertise on H-1Bs and various immigration pathways. Rob currently offers education and consulting services, helping employers and employees maintain compliance, and implement automated processes for employment-based immigration.

In this episode, Rob talks about the trends he is seeing these days in terms of H1-B visa sponsorship and processing, USCIS’s plans for RFP digitization, and what he is seeing on the non-exempt side as well. Finally, hear some tips when hiring people on H1-B visas from the H-1B guy himself!

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Rob’s predictions for this year’s applications * Negotiation suggestions if you want to be upfront on your application * How to attract and retrain H1-B employees * Trends in concurrent cap-exempt H1-Bs * How to predict the Visa Bulletin’s success rates

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: The H1B Guy: https://theh1bguy.com/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:
  • Episode 066: Cap-Exempt H-1Bs with Danielle Goldman
  • Episode 108: Updates and What We Know About This Year’s H-1B Lottery
  • Episode 117: Backup If You’re Not Selected in the H-1B Lottery
  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by Anthony Pawelski, senior international advisor at Mass General Brigham, A Boston-based nonprofit hospital which consists of 16 entities including Harvard and Tufts affiliated teaching hospitals. In his role there, Anthony prepares E-1, H1-B, O-1, TN, and a variety of non-immigrant work visa applications for folks in the ecosystem and he consults with departments for possible Green Card sponsorships.

In this episode, we specifically take a deep dive into understanding the J-1 visa – what it is, how it works, who qualifies, and what happens after you've gotten one. Anthony is a true expert who has seen immigration law and these types of visas from many sides.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Common immigration situations they encounter * The Education Commission for Foreign Exchange Medical Graduates * An overview of the J-1 visa: categories, sponsorship, challenges * Funding and educational levels * The benefits and drawbacks * The foreign residence requirement

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Mass General Brigham

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 33: All About the J-1 Exchange Visa
    • Episode 34: J-1 Two-Year Foreign Residency Requirement
    • Episode 66: Cap-Exempt H-1Bs with Danielle Goldman

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am thrilled to be joined by William Tincup, an expert in tech recruiting who wears many hats – writer, speaker, advisor, consultant, investor, storyteller, and teacher. He is the president and editor at large of recruitingdaily.com, as well as the host of two podcasts, The Use Case Podcast and The RecruitingDaily Podcast.

William is also a venture partner at Evergreen Mountain Equity Partners and serves on the advisory board or board of directors of more than 20 human resources tech startups, consulting with them on everything from products and sales to business models, pivoting, go-to-market strategies, user adoption, and M&A.

Listen in as William shares some strategies and insights into how to grow the tech talent in the U.S., whether in-person or remote work – which has everything to do with effective marketing.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How creativity plays in startups and recruiting * Factors that have led to remote hiring overseas * The idea of creating an optional office * What the future of work looks like in 2050 * Where most tech startups need support * Collaborating with the candidate when making offer letters

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: https://recruitingdaily.com

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 63: Immigration, Global Mobility, Working from Home, and the Future of Work
    • Episode 70: Talent Acquisition for Startups with Katie Lampert
    • Episode 93: Recruiting with Beth Scheer

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am thrilled to be joined by Jason Sosa, an entrepreneur, investor, innovation strategy consultant, and speaker. Jason is an expert on the future of work, AI innovation, blockchain, and other disruptive technologies.

With his background as a serial entrepreneur and four times TEDx speaker, Jason has been featured in Forbes, The New York Times, CNN, Wired, Fast Company, and Esquire Singapore, He has participated in Techstars 500 Startups and Plug and Play.

Jason takes us through his vision of what he sees as the future of work. He talks about how we're all playing a game where we don't necessarily know the rules and we're just trying to navigate it. The challenge is to disrupt the old system, make a new, better system, and make the federal system obsolete.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How he got from having a 0.98 GPA to a world-famous speaker * Jason’s immigration story * How to build ethics in the future of work * Most common mistakes entrepreneurs or startups make * The difference between a first-time founder and a second-time founder * Jason’s vision of the future of work

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: www.jasonsosa.com

Finite and Infinite Games by James Carse

Twitter: @jason_sosa

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 56: Global Innovation with Tim Draper
    • Episode 63: Immigration, Global Mobility, Working from Home, and the Future of Work
    • Episode 103: A Futurist’s Lens on Immigration – Future of Work, Climate Change, and More with Jamais Cascio

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.
Finite and Infinite Games: A Vision of Life as Play and Possibility

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by my immigration attorney colleague, Nassim Aranzi, who also has an inspiring immigrant story. She started with a background in accounting and an MBA and found her way to law school.

Nassim initially started doing securities law and wanted to become a tax attorney. It wasn’t until one fateful incident when she was led to the immigration court, that she felt the eagerness to help immigrants. Nassim realized what profound difference an immigration attorney can make in a person's life.

The immigration system can make people feel disempowered for so many reasons. Today, Nassim talks about the power of the mind and how you can control it to help your immigration goals.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Nassim’s own immigration story * Finding the strength and Zen to handle her cases * Tapping into the power of the mind * Example of a case she handled recently * Changing your belief system to help you win your case

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: https://www.nassimarzani.com/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

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  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
    • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3
    • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by Rob Adams, a cross-cultural trainer, and consultant. In 2016, Rob founded Chai and Coaching to help international students and professionals succeed in America.

Applying as an international student in America comes with its own challenges. Rob’s YouTube channel offers a series of videos where he interviews experts on a wide range of topics. They share tips and insights on how to fund your studies and lower your cost of living in the U.S. as well as the best and worst degrees for jobs in America.

Rob also covers topics such as interview strategies, visas, green cards, and a variety of other timely topics relevant to the audience of international students and young professionals making their way in the United States.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Rob’s transition from petroleum engineering to Chai and Coaching * His experience living and working in India * Addressing the needs of international students and filling in the gap * The shift in the immigration landscape for international students * Other types of STEM majors to consider * How to bridge the cultural gap in terms of getting jobs in America * The value of investing in relationships

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Chai and Coaching’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/chaicoaching

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
    • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3
    • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m thrilled to be joined by Kevin Chou, a serial entrepreneur gaming and crypto expert. He talks about his latest venture, SuperLayer, which is a community of builders in consumer crypto, seeking to bring the next 100 million people into crypto. Kevin has an extensive background in his companies Rally (blockchain project for creators), Forte (a blockchain game developer platform), Gen.G (leading eSports organization), and more.

He also founded mobile game development company Kabam. He grew it to over 400 million in annual revenues and built the team to 1,100 people on three continents globally until it was eventually acquired for $1 billion.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The immigration story in Chou’s family * His interest in finance * How he transitioned from finance to venture capital * Embracing new paradigm shifts in the technology * Things he learned from building Rally * The idea of truly owning your content through Web3 * How to get involved in SuperLayer * His insights into the recent crypto crash * Entrepreneurship and innovation in the Web3 space post-COVID * How immigration supports innovation

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: SuperLayer

www.superlayer.io/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by Stuart Anderson, the Executive Director of the National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP), a nonprofit research organization that focuses on trade, immigration, and related issues. He specifically talks about some changes in the U.S. immigration policy as well as the most important changes needed to fix some of the most important problems today.

Stuart helped create AC21, which has impacted the lives of millions of immigrants, especially from China and India, to have more stability and security for their families so they can continue to add value to the United States and have more peace of mind. Aside from being a senior contributor to Forbes magazine, where he covers immigration news, Stuart also wrote the book Immigration (Greenwood Guides to Business and Economics).

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * About NFAP and what they do * How the political alignment on immigration has shifted over the last three decades * Additional legal changes in AC21 * The university and nonprofit cap exemption for H-1B * Green card wait times for EB-2 and EB-3 visas in the China and India categories post-pandemic * Why many Indian students are now choosing Canada over the United States * The economic implications of a better immigration policy

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: National Foundation for American Policy

https://nfap.com/

Twitter: @NFAPresearch

Immigration (Greenwood Guides to Business and Economics)

https://www.amazon.com/Immigration-Greenwood-Guides-Business-Economics/dp/0313380287

Regan’s final speech: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2R8QxCD6ir8&t=2s

Alcorn Immigration Law:

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  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 030: H-1B Nitty Gritty #1: Transfer, Extensions, Amendments in Tech
    • Episode 031: H-1B Nitty Gritty #2: H-1B Transfer for Startup Founders
    • Episode 83: Understanding AC21 Portability – H-1B Extensions and the 180 Day Rule

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I'm joined by an amazing colleague, Attorney Hannah Genton, founding partner at CGL, a corporate law firm that offers a host of legal services, especially to founders and early-stage startups, including company formations restructurings, equity, and debt financing, and strategic partnerships, and Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A).

Hannah is disrupting the practice of corporate law by providing a platform that meets people where they are, allowing flexibility in their working hours, which is a far cry from the standard law firm environment. In today’s episode, Hannah shares some legal trends startup founders should know about when bringing in global talent.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The shifting culture of CGL * Balancing work hour flexibility versus the needs of their clients * Avoiding misclassification in the types of workers * Understanding the differences in privacy laws of different countries * Who should be managing legal issues in your company? * The 3 areas having a legal counsel is important * A focus on mitigating risks * A big uptick in companies looking to recruit diverse board members and C-suite * The increasing popularity of benefit corporations * Other best practices for early-stage businesses

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: CGL

https://cgl-llp.com/

Conversations with CGL

https://cgl-llp.com/podcast/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 56: Global Innovation with Tim Draper

  • Episode 63: Immigration, Global Mobility, Working from Home, and the Future of Work

  • Episode 103: A Futurist’s Lens on Immigration – Future of Work, Climate Change, and More with Jamais Cascio

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by Danielle D'Agostaro, the principal partner at WV Ventures, a 100-million joint venture between Advocate Aurora Health, Foxconn, Johnson Controls, and Northwestern Mutual. We talk about competing for tech talent on the global stage as well as the biggest challenges facing early-stage startups and founders in growing startups.

Prior to WVV, Danielle spent the last 7 years building the Alchemist Accelerator from the ground up, working with hundreds of companies such as LaunchDarkly, Rigetti Quantum Computing, and Cobalt.io., and ultimately becoming a leading enterprise accelerator in the U.S.

While Alchemist serves as the first check-in to a company, WVV is the next-stage pass where they would need to do due diligence and evaluate traction. Although they are also geared toward helping B2C companies, their main focus is on B2B startups.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Switching from B2B SaaS to health care and insurance * Investing in immigrant founders and a requirement for U.S. presence * Focus on data-hungry AI startups and other domain expertise * The biggest challenges facing early-stage startups and founders * How equity incentivization looks like * Strategies when presenting to VCs * Why you shouldn't use conferences as a fundraising strategy * How to focus on relationship building with VCs * What early-stage investors should focus on * Trends in hiring global talent

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: https://www.wvvcapital.com/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

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  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
    • Episode 42: Capture Investors’ Attention With Your Authentic Story with Strategist and Storyteller Eileen Wu
    • Episode 63: Immigration, Global Mobility, Working from Home, and the Future of Work

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by Mark Milastsivy, an amazing immigrant entrepreneur who is making great strides with his startup. Mark is the founder and CEO of The New York-based Firstbase.io, a platform that helps founders set up and scale their businesses in the United States.

Founded in 2019 through Y Combinator, their service helps founders incorporate a U.S. entity, open a U.S. bank account and get legal paperwork done for founders. People in the startup world know how difficult those things can be, especially even something as simple as opening a bank account. Now, this is all combined in one service. Today, they have over 15,000 customers, building the right solutions for clients and helping them grow their businesses.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Mark’s personal immigration and entrepreneurial journey * The beginning of Firstbase * Firstbase products and how they’re helping startups * Who they serve * Their seed round strategy * Mark’s advice for international founders looking to create a startup in the U.S.

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: https://www.firstbase.io/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 89: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association

  • Episode 113: How startup founders are moving to the US

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I'm going to be talking about a very common question among startups that has only increased in recent years: “Should I sponsor engineers we are recruiting for green cards?”

The question of green cards for permanent residents is a perennial one in tech companies and for the world's top engineering and business talents making their way in Silicon Valley and beyond here in the U.S. There is a perennial issue of the severe tech talent shortage in the United States and its intensification during the past year. It has become especially salient since the dawn of the great resignation last year with the ongoing competition for recruiting and retaining tech talent. We’re seeing intense negotiations for tech talent to leave big tech companies and work at startups, or for individuals to move between startups.

Ultimately, green card sponsorship is an effective retention tool. It is possible with remote work, hybrid work, and decentralized teams, and so, they remain an important part of helping somebody map out their future.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Reasons for sponsoring talented team members for green cards * How the system can be manipulated * Things to consider when thinking about the green card process * Other types of green card processes * Ways to go above and beyond the green card sponsorship * More options to bypass the PERM process * Details on the Immigrant Visa Process

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Immigration Cheat Sheet for Recruiters

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 03: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas

  • Episode 29: Sponsoring Employees for PERM Green Cards

  • Episode 57: 11 Tips for Companies to Support Valued Humans

  • Episode 109: Interview with GGV Capital’s Jen Holmstrom

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m doing our annual recap of what to do if you were not selected in the H-1B lottery. What are your backup options, whether you are in operations, finance, or any position at a tech startup?

While the H-1B lottery is high in demand, it is certainly not the only path to the United States as there are myriad alternative ways to live and work legally in the United States. With a little bit of grit, perseverance, and creative thinking about legal alternative strategies, a lot of things are possible.

This is one of those pivotal points in your life where your decisions can shape your future and the future of those around you. And so, this can be a challenging situation, but know that there are options – and where there is a will, there is always a way.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How the H-1B lottery works and why people want an H1-B * For F-1 OPT and STEM OPT status * The launch of the electronic lottery in 2020 * Basic H-1B options * Alternative ways to stay in the United States * O-1 visa for Extraordinary Ability vs. Cap-Exempt (no lottery) H-1B * The option of EB-2 National Interest Waiver Green Card

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B

  • Episode 44: 7 of the Most Startup-Friendly Visas Explained

  • Episode 66: Cap-Exempt H-1Bs with Danielle Goldman

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I'm going to talk about what Biden did say about immigration, as well as how tech companies can support their employees in Ukraine, Ukrainians working in the United States, as well as displaced Ukrainians in third countries around the world.

Biden's recent State of the Union address focused primarily on Ukraine. He talked about inflation and the changes in the United States economy. He also framed immigration reform as an issue of economic competitiveness because reuniting families is the morally right thing to do. He talked about the need to fix the immigration system and secure our border as well as some of his key immigration priorities, including immigration reform and a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * A huge need to fix the immigration system * Immigration reform support * Ukraine as a designated TPS (temporary protected country) * Revisiting Biden’s immigration promises during his first 100 days in office * Key immigration results * Possible visa options for people from Ukraine or displaced people in third countries to the United States in the short term

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 68: Update on DACA

  • Episode 95: Recent Immigration Updates 2021

  • Episode 96: DACA in Tech

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by a renowned guest, Maurice Conti. He is a futurist and deep tech authority who serves as an advisor to the National Academy of Sciences. He has helped companies like Nike, Tesla, Disney, Airbus, and Google understand what's coming in the future and how to prepare.

Maurice's speeches have been watched all around the world, including over 12 million views of his TED Talks. Currently, his focus is the metaverse. He is an applied futurist who's not just trying to figure out what's coming in the future, but what these new technologies will be and how to start building them now.

We talk about how the intersection of humanity, immigration, innovation, and work technology impacts the future of work, what that is going to look like for international workers, and what technologies people are going to be building.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What is a futurist? * Designing and building probable and desirable futures * The future of immigration and its intersection with the future of work * Factoring in blips in current events * Hybrid work models * Does immigration exist in the metaverse? * The best way to deal with VUCA * Building resilience into the system through diversity * Innovation is like a pet tiger.

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Watch Maurice Conti on TED Talks: https://www.ted.com/speakers/maurice_conti

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 56: Global Innovation with Tim Draper

  • Episode 63: Immigration, Global Mobility, Working from Home, and the Future of Work

  • Episode 103: A Futurist’s Lens on Immigration – Future of Work, Climate Change, and More with Jamais Cascio

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I am joined by my esteemed colleague, Nadia Zaidi, as we discuss all the latest updates on the International Entrepreneur Parole (IEP), about one year since its reactivation by the Biden administration.

We're getting a lot of inquiries about whether IEP is the right path, and so we want to help you with this episode to be able to better assess your own options based on how this has all played out in the last year. We explain what that means for aspiring startup founders, existing startup founders, and how to think about this category of status to come live and work in the United States. We also have some updates about the startup visa which does not exist yet and is currently being negotiated in the U.S. House and Senate.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The basic requirements and eligibility for IEP * Requirements for extension and renewal * The application timeline * Petition for your family to come to the United States * The benefit of premium processing * Updates on the startup visa * Types of industries startup founders can look into

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: National Venture Capital Association

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 73: International Entrepreneur Parole is Back!
    • Episode 78: Parole Entry Process
    • Episode 82: What Type of Investments Qualify Under IEP?

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, we focus on options for startup founders who are thinking about moving to the United States to grow their companies and some of the latest updates. I'm also discussing the latest updates with the Biden administration welcoming immigrant entrepreneurs, and immigrants with expertise in STEM fields relating to innovation as well as national security.

The U.S. is becoming a more welcoming and hospitable environment to non-immigrants, startup founders, and people in the sciences and innovations. And so, if you've been thinking about coming to the United States, and you've had to put it off due to the pandemic, now is a good time. A lot of people are ready to move on from COVID and get their life and business into gear. And for them, that plan involves some sort of expansion in the U.S. So if you have been working on developing a company in another country, besides the United States over the last couple of years, you might be interested in moving to the United States now.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Common motivations startup founders want to move to the United States * Why now is the time to take action * Two main options to visit the United States temporarily * The dos and don’ts while in the U.S. on an ESTA visa waiver program * The most common non-immigrant work visas and recent updates * Considerations for an E-2 Visa * Implications for those with a V1 visa for spouses * Visa options for existing startup founders in other countries * Qualifications and requirements * The green card process for EB-1 and EB-2 National Interest Waiver Green Card

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 21: Intracompany Transfers – L-1 Visas and EB-1C Green Cards for Multinational Managers, Executives, and People with Specialized Knowledge

  • Episode 84: Back to School: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp Part 1

  • Episode 85: Back to School: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp Part 2

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by my colleague, Nadia Zaidi, as we discuss the latest immigration news. There's a lot happening – fast. It's wonderful to be under a presidential administration that is excited about the contributions of immigrants, especially as it comes to technology and innovation.

We're covering everything from expanded STEM fields of study that qualify for STEM OPT extensions. Apparently, they have added more fields to the STEM-designated degree program list, which qualifies more people for STEM OPT extensions. They've specifically added more multi-disciplinary merging fields that were not previously considered STEM fields.

We also cover other policies to attract and retain STEM talent in the U.S. and the old status quo for the eight categories and how it's opening up for new people to qualify for O-1 visa based on the new guidance. Finally, we’re giving you the current view on all of the prospects for a startup visa ​​and the America COMPETES Act.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Students enrolling in U.S. universities under the STEM list * Updates in J-1 exchange visitors and the O-1 visa extraordinary ability * New guidance for each of the eight categories to qualify for an O-1 visa * Latest update on the startup visa and the America COMPETES Act

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 84: Back to School: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp Part 1

  • Episode 86: Back to School: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp Part 2

  • Episode 91: What You Need to Know About Hiring Students on OPT

  • Episode 111: Public Policy and Entrepreneurship with NVCA CEO, Bobby Franklin

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by Bobby Franklin, the President and CEO of the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA). For nearly 50 years, NVCA has been a strong advocate for the American entrepreneurial ecosystem. Bobby began his professional career working on Capitol Hill in the office of Senator David Pryor. He has a fascinating professional journey in government affairs and consultancy, managing different organizations and trade associations. Bobby recently became the chairman of the board of Venture Forward, a nonprofit launched by NVCA in 2020 to shape the future of the VC industry beyond public policy.

In the last few years, the country's share of global venture capital dollars has dropped to about half, losing significant market share. From an economic policy standpoint, the U.S. needs to roll out the red carpet and make sure entrepreneurs – from wherever they are in the world – can come to the United States, so they can start and grow companies and experiment and try to build products and services.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How he found his way into public policy and venture capital * Why trade associations exist * Why U.S. immigration law is important and valuable to the NVCA * The America COMPETES Act and its potential impact on immigration * How startups become victims of unintended consequences

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: National Venture Capital Association

Venture Forward

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 73: International Entrepreneur Parole is Back!

  • Episode 78: Parole Entry Process

  • Episode 89: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by my law partner Anita Koumriqian as we talk about love and immigration. We're talking about marriage-based options, including adjustment of status and the K-1 fiancé visa. Anita highly suggests that if you can go through a marriage-based option in good faith, then do that over the employment-based one.

From an immigration standpoint, you can have two weddings as well – one being a civil ceremony and the other, a larger wedding, whether time or finance was the issue at that time, and now you can do that.

Regardless of how you're going to do it, take both weddings seriously, especially the legal ceremony. In the immigration's eyes, that's the date they care about. They want to know if you have taken your marriage seriously from the day you legally married and filed a green card application. Or whether you just did it as a show so you can hurry up and go through the green card process.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Benefits of a marriage-based green card over an employee-based green card * Basic requirements for marriage-based green card application * How to prove marriage in good faith * Adjustment of status: application, supporting documents, and complications * Getting the green cards from your home country * An overview of the K-1 fiancé visa * Stories of people who went through the marriage-based green card process

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 13: Show the Love: Family-based Alternatives for Technology Professionals

  • Episode 49: Never Do This in Immigration – Family

  • Episode 58: Engaged, Now What?

  • Episode 92: Marrying a U.S. Citizen

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by Jen Holmstrom, the Associate Partner and Head of Platform Services at GGV Capital. With leaders and founders now having access to global talent, Jen believes we now live in the future of work and that companies need to be intentional in the kind of environment they provide to employees.

Based in Silicon Valley, Singapore, and China, GGV Capital is a VC firm and a $9.2-billion fund that invests across multiple sectors. In her role, Jen leads the talent and recruiting support for portfolio companies of the fund. She has also created an amazing leadership program called Founders + Leaders. Today, she talks about its curriculum and how she helps early-stage startup founders and companies from around the world create rapidly scaling, high-value startups across a number of verticals.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Creating a platform team * The impact of the Great Resignation on immigration * The frustration around compensation * Creating an environment employees want to work in – physically and virtually * Looking to intrinsic motivation for retention * Leadership management best practices * Psychological contract vs. psychological safety

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: GGV Capital

https://www.ggvc.com/

Founders + Leaders

https://www.ggvc.com/for-founders/

Books:

First, Break All the Rules: What the World's Greatest Managers Do Differently by Marcus Buckingham

https://www.amazon.com/First-Break-All-Rules-Differently/dp/1531865208

The One Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson

https://www.amazon.com/One-Minute-Manager-Kenneth-Blanchard/dp/0425093980

Living the Remote Dream by Darren Murph

https://www.amazon.com/Living-Remote-Dream-Setting-Advancing/dp/1506192130

Redefining HR by Lars Schmidt

https://www.amazon.com/Redefining-HR-Transforming-Business-Performance/dp/1789667046

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 40: Due Diligence and Founder Immigration for VCs

  • Episode 41: Investing in Immigrant Entrepreneurs with VC Carmen Pallafox

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

First, Break All the Rules: What the world's Greatest Managers Do Differently
Living the Remote Dream: A Guide To Seeing the World, Setting Records, and Advancing Your Career
The One Minute Manager
Redefining HR: Transforming People Teams to Drive Business Performance

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’ll be giving an update on the H-1B visa and the lottery. If you want to participate, and you don't already have an employer, whether you're an individual or a company and you don't already have a law firm, you need to get moving right now.

It's important to avail yourselves of the opportunities to participate because all of this takes time even though the lottery is electronic, which has been a wonderful change and improvement. But setting things up takes time and creating an attorney-client relationship takes time. Whether it's a startup or a large, established organization, getting company details takes time. So you want to get moving right away. Get this done as soon as possible to have a chance at participating. Make sure everything is correct and that you qualify so you have a chance to participate and take responsibility for your future.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Creating USCIS online accounts * Timing: registration, filing, and selection * Cap gap for the F-1 international student status * H-1B job titles * Legal and government fees * Companies with the most approved petitions * Denial rates

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 9: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition

  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B

  • Episode 104: H-1B FY2023 Lottery Planning

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, we're joined by Kori, our associate attorney, as we’re taking a New Year's approach to immigration through these immigration must-dos for the new year and things you can do to be more successful with reaching your New Year's resolutions. It's also important to talk to an attorney because they can help you devise your strategic plan as well as your backup options.

For instance, if your goal is family reunification, there's always that delicate balancing act of juggling the work visa route or the marriage immigration route. And sometimes, it's better to go as a spouse in that you can do whatever you want from a work perspective, once you arrive. For people considering starting tech startups, there are a lot of questions that they need to consider as well. Ultimately, these strategic plans are often specific to the individual, their situation, what their options are, their timelines, and their goals.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Why should people talk to an immigration lawyer * Options for family reunification goals * Keeping your documents organized * Cultivating a support network * How to be proactive through the immigration process * Making sure all your taxes are sorted out

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Study: https://www.alcorn.law/immigration/study-finds-strong-public-support-for-highly-skilled-immigrants/

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 49: Never Do This in Immigration – Family

  • Episode 52: Never Do This in Immigration – Business

  • Episode 100: ILT’s 100th Episode Celebration!

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’ll discuss how to set up your company for immigration success – both for yourself and for your future team members. If you are an immigrant and you're new to entrepreneurship in the United States, or you know some people from your founding team or people you want to hire that will be immigrants, it is important to set up some basic things in your company. That way, the visas and green cards your company petitions for will get approved.

For somebody thinking about what type of non-immigrant visa or green card process they should embark on, a common answer they get is to do an H-1B transfer. However, there are a lot of things that could and should go into that consultative advisory process because you don't want to be spending all these resources if you're barking up the wrong tree. So before you invest your time, money, and resources into the process, you need to know how to mitigate risks and define your best strategy.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How to structure your company and how to work with experts * What is preferred in the technology scene by investors in the United States * Different considerations for setting up your company * Different considerations for your company's immigration policies * What types of visas your potential team members might benefit from the most * How you can set up your company to be compatible with those eventual visa applications and have the strongest chance for success

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 07: Immigration Best Practices – Part II

  • Episode 39: Startup Law with Attorney Lindsey Mignano

  • Episode 105: Immigration Pitfalls for Startup Founders

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’ll discuss the immigration pitfalls that every startup founder should avoid.

If you are international or if you need to hire early-stage employees at your company who are from around the world, it is essential to be careful and strategic with your actions to ensure everybody critical to your company can live and work in the United States, at least in the short term, although many people also want to be able to stay in the United States long-term.

Those are two different sets of parameters you need to consider so you can optimize this task and use the opportunity to take charge of your immigration and support the immigration needs of your highly valued early-stage team members.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Canadians doing PERM by themselves * Talking to your legal team about the process * Getting clear on what timeline applies to you * Your startup structure and specific visa requirements * Need for a strategic plan based on your goals and options * The risks of doing unauthorized work on visitor status.

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Episode 21: Intracompany Transfers – L-1 Visas and EB-1C Green Cards for Multinational Managers, Executives, and People with Specialized Knowledge

  • Episode 97: How to Build an Immigration Program with Erin Teter and Lydia Buurma

  • Episode 57: 11 Tips for Companies to Support Valued Humans

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

View Details

In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’ll discuss planning for the H-1B lottery. Yes, it’s that season again! And it is coming up in March. If you are looking for a job that might sponsor you for H-1B or if you're an employer looking to sponsor someone, I will be giving you some pre-lottery actions and your document assembly to-do list to help you get prepared.

There's so much hope that comes with this lottery as long as you have the right things in place. If you are an intending beneficiary who wants to be sponsored by a company for an H-1B, just start your meditation practice now since we can't control the future. You might be selected or not, so you need to figure out a way to deal with both possibilities. Also, as an employer, you need to mitigate the risk of the process to be able to secure your top talents the ability to live and work legally in the United States.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The H-1B lottery: guidelines, updates, and filing dates * Qualifications: the employer, the role, and the candidate * Defining the employer-employee relationship * Registration guidelines and selection process * Requirements and documents you need to prepare * Other things to consider before seeking an H-1B * Some workarounds and alternative routes

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B

  • Episode 09: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition

  • Episode 44: 7 of the Most Startup-Friendly Visas Explained

  • Episode 99: H-1B Planning for FY2023

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by ​​Jamais Cascio, a futurist and distinguished fellow at the Institute for the Future, a nonprofit group based in Palo Alto, where he determines plausible outcomes for the future. Also a notable speaker and writer, Jamais focuses on the intersection of emerging technologies, environmental dilemmas, and cultural transformation.

Futurists are like historians in reverse. They don’t make predictions but rather tease out the broader picture of consequences. For instance, futurists have been talking about the pandemic (ever since Jamais has been doing this work for 25 years) as this big potential issue that could hit at any time. Today, Jamais gives us a picture of the future of work and immigration and some questions to ask ourselves and mindset changes we need to do as we're dealing with these radical changes we're facing in a chaotic world.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What is foresight work? * The future of work, technology, and economy * The future of immigration and questions to think about * The concept of “degrowth” and rethinking economic models * The BANI model and how to respond to the radical changes in the world * Understanding human connection as the core of the future

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: The BANI Framework: “Facing the Age of Chaos”

https://medium.com/@cascio/facing-the-age-of-chaos-b00687b1f51d

Open the Future

http://www.openthefuture.com

“Innovation and Creation in a World of Chaos” Talk for Brazil Innovation Week

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCmRDQovvXY

Institute for the Future

https://www.iftf.org/home/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 63: Immigration, Global Mobility, Working from Home, and the Future of Work

  • Episode 56: Global Innovation with Tim Draper

  • Episode 57: 11 Tips for Companies to Support Valued Humans

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by my law partner Anita Koumriqian as we talk about marriage, adjustment of status, and green cards in a holiday proposal theme.

Getting married to a United States citizen is the fastest and easiest way for somebody to get a green card. If you are in the U.S. on an H-1B visa or an O-1A visa, and you're thinking of getting a green card based on your work accomplishments or patents, you can definitely do that. But getting a marriage-based green card if you're in a relationship with a U.S. citizen will be so much less work for you – that’s if you don't have that fear of putting additional pressure on your relationship.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Marriage-based Green Cards: process, interview prep, & fees * Why people are doing two weddings in relation to a green card application * Why the U.S. citizen's family must be aware of the marriage * Guidelines for international travel pending your application * Getting a combo card and how long it takes to get one (pre and post-COVID)

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 49: Never Do This in Immigration – Family

  • Episode 64: Immigration, Prenups & Divorce with Lydia Hsu and Kara Foster

  • Episode 92: Marrying a U.S. Citizen

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I will talk about the immigration outlook for 2022. There has been a 25-year stagnation in the immigration field in terms of new legislation to support immigrants. We would love to see immigration reform to mitigate the significant shortage of talent in the United States and how the number of international students attending U.S. universities has dropped.

However, this field is constantly evolving. In this episode, I'm giving a forecast of the changes in the regulatory arena – not only for 2022 but also for the remainder of the Biden administration. Cheers to 2021 almost being over and to everything ahead in 2022!

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The timing of things in immigration law * Moving Silicon Valley into the Cloud * Visiting the United States * Hope for H-1B candidates * An increase in the number of H-1B registrations * Preserving and fortifying DACA * Changes in filing fees and requirements

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, we’re celebrating our 100th episode. Joining me are the rest of the Alcorn Immigration Law team. We have had 19 guests on the podcast, and we’re sharing our favorite episodes and the top 10 Immigration Law for Tech Startup episodes.

Our goal in this podcast is to educate and become a reliable resource, delivering information in a way that's practical and easy to understand. We take pride in what we've built together over these last several years. Our law firm also recently celebrated its sixth anniversary, and we've helped people in over 2,000 separate immigration matters.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Our favorite episodes and stories * Changes with the Trump administration * How the pandemic affected immigration * Biden administration updates * An overview of the International Entrepreneur Parole

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: The Top 10 ILT Episodes:

  1. Episode 46: Get Ready for H-1B FY2022 Lottery
  2. Episode 15: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp
  3. Episode 73: International Entrepreneur Parole is Back!
  4. Episode 43: What a Biden Victory Means for Immigration
  5. Episode 69: How to Have 2 Jobs When You’re on an H-1B
  6. Episode 09: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition
  7. Episode 34: J-1 Two-Year Foreign Residency Requirement
  8. Episode 28: All About Priority Dates
  9. Episode 49: Never Do This in Immigration – Family
  10. Episode 44: 7 of the Most Startup-Friendly Visas Explained

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’ll discuss everything you need to know to start getting ready for the upcoming H-1B lottery in March 2022, which is just around the corner. Whether you are running your company’s immigration program, or an employee seeking an H-1B, or you’re in another country looking to get your first H-1B to move to the U.S., now is the time to start preparing.

The lottery has shifted and it is now a year-round process. If you need an immigration attorney and you're thinking about engaging with my practice, we would be delighted to support you. We are already underway with many H-1Bs for next year's lottery. We would love to support all of our current clients and anybody new before the rush comes in Q1.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The H-1B visa lottery: what it is and why there is a lottery? * How the lottery process works * The odds of getting selected * New updates since COVID * Government litigation settlements and immigration bills affecting the H-1B process * Latest updates in the Biden Administration * Planning tips to help you get ready

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 09: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition

  • Episode 55: H-1B Lottery Planning Part 1

  • Episode 60: H-1B Lottery Planning Part 2

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by my law partner Anita Koumriqian as we do a very special Thanksgiving edition on gratitude and appreciation. We want to recognize how we've maintained a lot of positivity throughout the pandemic. It's definitely been a blessing to be able to continue to help people realize their dreams of coming to the U.S., living in the U.S., working in the U.S., and reuniting with family.

Here’s a fun fact: Did you know that Thanksgiving is an immigration holiday at its core? Just to give you a piece of U.S. History 101, the pilgrims were looking for refuge from their religious persecution in the United Kingdom so they came to the New World as asylum-seekers. The Native Americans then shared a Thanksgiving feast with them.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Immigration-related stuff we’re grateful for * Mastering the art of resilience * Updates on DACA and International Entrepreneur Parole * Ease of travel restrictions * Great things happening in H-1B land * The introduction of the LIKE Act

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 68: Update on DACA

  • Episode 95: Recent Immigration Updates 2021

  • Episode 89: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined not just by Erin Teter, SVP of Human Resources, and Lydia Buurma, HR Operations Manager, of LINQ, a K12 tech company that provides states districts and schools with cloud-based solutions for administration, finance, and nutrition.

It's valuable for early-stage startups to have some examples of how startups can build an immigration program, that's why I invited them to share their HR expertise with us today. They share some things to consider when developing immigration strategies and policies for your company, some HR common mistakes and best practices, as well as the importance of building a culture that creates a safe space for employees in terms of immigration considerations.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How they're building a distributed remote decentralized team * How they decide who deserves sponsorship * How to create an environment where people feel safe with the immigration considerations * Setting performance requirements * Process for figuring out status quo * Most common mistakes and best HR practices startups make

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: LINQ

https://www.linq.com/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 95: Recent Immigration Updates 2021

  • Episode 70: Talent Acquisition for Startups with Katie Lampert

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by my law partner Anita Koumriqian as we discuss DACA and DREAMers, what is going on, and why this matters, not just for the recipients and their families, but also within the tech community.

The point of DACA, which stands for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is to allow peace of mind, comfort, and most importantly, the ability to go to school for undocumented children brought to the United States by their parents from another country. And so, it gives undocumented people the ability to work, if they qualify.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The history of DACA * DACA updates under the Biden administration * DACA qualification and requirements * Grounds for disqualification * What permanent injunction means * Other bills passed in addition to DACA * What companies could do to assist existing DACA employees * Guidelines around Advance Parole

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 13: Show the Love: Family-based Alternatives for Technology Professionals

  • Episode 49: Never Do This in Immigration – Family

  • Episode 68: Update on DACA

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’ll share with you a summary of some of the recent immigration updates and changes that we've experienced in 2021. There have been so many immigration law changes over the last year, perhaps not as many as in 2020 with the advent of the pandemic, the Trump administration, and the election.

What we've seen over 2020 with the advent of the Biden administration has been the recommitment to the regulatory process as the agencies are trying to build up their capacity after a mass exodus of highly trained personnel who left during the Trump administration. They’re still getting through the backlogs and continuing to deal with COVID and the lack of staffing at the U.S. embassies and consulates abroad so people can start getting their visas processed again.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Updates on the National Interest Exceptions (qualifications, processing, travel requirements, student visas) * Immigration reform updates (DACA, International Entrepreneur Parole * Changes related to the green card processing and adjustment of status * Changes in the H-1B world * The LIKE Act of 2021 (start-up visa) * Countries under Temporary Protected Status

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: National Interest Exceptions

https://at.usembassy.gov/nie/

Chats with Charlie Oppenheim

https://www.youtube.com/user/TravelGov/playlists

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 68: Update on DACA

  • Episode 73: International Entrepreneur Parole is Back!

    • Episode 85: Removal of Conditional Status for Green Card Holders
  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, we’re celebrating National Immigrants Day here in the United States. I have so much respect and admiration for our country’s immigrants who have shown grit, determination, vision, and perseverance that these global legal processes can demand from them.

This country's history is all about immigration. No matter how we look at it, we can't get away from the fact that this is a nation of immigrants. And so today, I wanted to take some time to look at the contributions of immigrants in Silicon Valley and celebrate those individuals who live, learn, work, build families, start companies, and build their dreams in the United States, making such a significant contribution to the fabric of this nation – culturally and economically.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Why people are attracted to immigration * The historical background of National Immigrants Day * The value of immigrants to society * The contribution of immigrants in Silicon Valley * A fun list of startups that are public and with at least one immigrant founder

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: New American Economy's 2020 Report

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 63: Immigration, Global Mobility, Working from Home, and the Future of Work

  • Episode 77: Immigration for Children and Dependentsand Mexican Citizens

  • Episode 89: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m speaking with Beth Scheer, who has an illustrious background in recruiting and HR with her time at Salesforce and Google. For the last six and a half years, she has been at Homebrew, an amazing VC that focuses on mission-driven founders solving large and urgent problems at the seed stage. They have over 70 companies in their portfolio, including some in Canada and Brazil.

Beth's role is to teach her founders how to fish. She provides counsel and advises their portfolio companies on everything under the talent umbrella. Today, Beth shares some of her insights on how she educates founders on strategies related to recruiting and compensation, sourcing, the interview process, and diversity and inclusion.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What attracts people to early-stage startups * Some challenges startups try to overcome in the recruiting process * Investing in a sourcing tool and an applicant tracking system * Best practices for attracting and retaining talent * Diversity & inclusion and international hiring trends * Tips to avoid recruiting missteps

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: www.homebrew.co

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 73: International Entrepreneur Parole is Back!

  • Episode 81: The Engineers I’m Recruiting Want H-1B Transfers and Green Cards… What Do I Do?

  • Episode 87: All the Ways to Get a Work Permit

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by my law partner, ​​Anita Koumriqian, as we discuss how to get a green card when you marry a U.S. citizen. The biggest aspect of family-based immigration is marriage to a U.S. citizen because it's a classic case type of couples who are in love and who just want to be together.

If you're trying to figure out how to be physically together with someone somewhere in the world and you're thinking of going through the process as a married couple, just remember things are changing every single day. So if you are toying around with the option of either a fiance visa or a marriage-based green card, be sure to reach out to an attorney to help guide you through this process.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How marriage to a U.S. citizen opens another opportunity to stay in the U.S. * If you want to separate your legal wedding from the ceremonial wedding * How people get married in the United States during COVID times * How the interviews work for international spouses outside of the U.S. * Questions and documents to establish a legitimate marriage * What happens when fraud is suspected * Doing the process inside the U.S. vs. outside of the U.S.

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: The Kingdom by Paul Selig

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 13: Show the Love: Family-Based Alternatives for Technology Professionals

  • Episode 49: Never Do This in Immigration – Family

  • Episode 58: Engaged, Now What?

  • Episode 64: Immigration, Prenups & Divorce with Lydia Hsu and Kara Foster

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.
The Kingdom: A Channeled Text (The Beyond the Known Trilogy, 3)

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’ll discuss how recent international graduates in the United States go through their immigration journey as well as what they are looking for when they’re trying to get a job at a company that can offer them immigration sponsorship.

This episode is from the perspective of tech startup founders, recruiters, human resources, executives, people in global mobility, and anybody hiring at tech companies and startups. There’s also a shortage of highly qualified engineering talent in the United States. We're looking at all of the various talent pools that relate to people who were born in other countries and are living and working in the United States, and who need immigration support themselves and their families as they're on the path to visas and green cards, and ultimately, U.S. citizenship.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Success in H-1B lottery in large vs. small companies * How most students come to the United States * Applying for the OPT process: requirements and filing guidelines * Class action settlement and changes in the H-1B lottery * Eligbility requirements for STEM OPT and timelines * Other visa and green card options

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: STEM OPT Extension for F-1 Students

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 26: F-1 Students and Workyees

  • Episode 66: Cap-Exempt H-1Bs with Danielle Goldman

  • Episode 87: All the Ways to Get a Work Permit

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by Melia Russell, a senior tech reporter at the financial and business news website, Business Insider. She particularly covers startups and venture capital focusing on growth-stage companies, tech investment details, and workplace issues, including immigration-related matters. Today, we're going to be talking about all things related to journalism, immigrants, and technology. Recently, Melia has been promoted to correspondent at Insider.

Melia likes to cover emerging issues in law and policy related to immigrants and tech startups as well as reporting on immigrant-founded tech companies. These topics are somewhat a niche in the world, but are so important to the Silicon Valley ecosystem and innovation.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Taking a service journalism approach when covering immigrants * What’s going on in the economy in terms of talents in tech * The longest running hiring spree in the startup ecosystem * Breaking the story on the startup visa * The benefits of the startup visa bill * How to create compelling pitches

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: https://www.businessinsider.com/immigration-attorneys-lawyers-helping-startups-founders-entrepreneurs-secure-work-visas-2021-8#suhi-koizumi-minami-tamaki-8

Email: mrussell@insider.com

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 089: Advocating for International Startup Founders with Jeff Farrah of National Venture Capital Association

  • Episode 073: International Entrepreneur Parole is Back!

  • Episode 078: Parole Entry Process

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, Jeff Farrah joins me as we discuss the International Entrepreneur Parole, how Jeff's efforts directly supported this new immigration pathway to exist for all of you to apply for, as well as about the startup visa and other things that venture capitalists care about when it comes to immigrant startup founders.

Jeff is the General Counsel at the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA). A Southern Californian native, Jeff is an attorney who has worked in Washington for many years in the Department of Commerce, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the Ways and Means Committee of the U.S. House of Representatives. Jeff continues to advocate for Congress and the White House and different agencies for pro-entrepreneurship policies.

Jeff believes immigrant entrepreneurs are part of the fabric of the American startup ecosystem and we would not be where we are as a country in terms of job creation and innovation.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Why the NVCA cares about immigration * How the policy is a huge source of economic stimulation and job creation * Recognizing the role of immigrant entrepreneurs in becoming the global powerhouse for startups * The startup visa legislation * Are folks in other countries allowed to write letters to Congress? * The discussion on budget reconciliation and immigration measures

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: National Venture Capital Association

https://nvca.org/

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 73: International Entrepreneur Parole is Back!ees

  • Episode 78: Parole Entry Process

  • Episode 82: What Type of Investments Qualify Under IEP?

  • Path to E-2 visa for citizens of non-treaty countries

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, together with my law partner, Anita Koumriqian, we discuss what you should know about applying for U.S. citizenship if you already have a green card and you have some sort of record, whether in the form of an arrest, a DUI or drug possession.

Everybody should obviously be careful and try to not commit crimes. But when you're an immigrant, you have to be extra careful about what you do because there's a lot of stuff that you might encounter that could jeopardize your immigration status. One of the things also worth noting is that citizenship is very jurisdictional where it's unique to where you're living, specifically within the community in which the applicant resides.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Qualifications for U.S. citizenship and the five-year statutory period * Good moral character standards * Things you need to disclose (expungement, citations, etc.) * How the USCIS could find out you’ve committed a crime * Types of minor level and major level convictions

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 14: Visas & Green Cards Based on Past Accomplishments

  • Episode 29: Sponsoring Employees for PERM Green Cards

  • Episode 81: The Engineers I’m Recruiting Want H-1B Transfers and Green Cards… What Do I Do?

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, let's dive into the world of work permits – what they are and how they relate to other types of statuses that could allow you to work when you're physically in the United States. I also discuss all the ways to get work permits and at what points in your immigration journey are you eligible for them.

Just a brief overview, a work permit is formally and technically known as Employment Authorization Documents (EAD). A work permit is not a couple of things. It’s not a green card. It’s not a permanent residence. It is also not a visa. A work permit is a physical card that you apply for via the I-765 form. It's specifically issued by the government and it serves as evidence of your identity as well as your ability to work legally in the United States.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Eligibility for a work permit * Validity, renewal, and processing times * People who don’t need a work permit * Categories that qualify for work permits * Spouses who can work through work permits * Different ways to get a work permit

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/information-for-employers-and-employees/employer-information/employment-authorization

Alcorn Immigration Law’s – STEM OPT FAQ’s

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 18: Dependent Visas and Work Permits

  • Episode 26: F-1 Students and Work
  • Episode 73: International Entrepreneur Parole is Back!

  • Episode 83: Understanding AC21 Portability – H-1B Extensions and the 180 Day Rule

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, we give you a back-to-school review of the Extraordinary Ability visas and related green cards, and I’m joined by Nadia Zaidi, founding partner of Alcorn immigration law and a Forbes top-rated startup immigration attorney in the United States.

We built the Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp, which walks people through the process of gaining the qualifications for an O-1A visa, an EB-1 green card, and an EB-2 national interest waiver green card, so they can learn everything they need to know about strengthening their petition to reach their immigration goals. People who might be interested in this generally fall under four types of profile: founders of tech startups, researchers at early stage tech companies, UX/UI designers, and artists (O-1B category).

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Tips for collecting portfolio of accomplishments * Latest update on angel investment and venture capital * Specific documentation for founders, researchers, UX/UI designers, and artists * Selecting experts for letters of recommendation * Timeline for gathering evidence and the entire process

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 015: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp

  • Episode 038: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp Course – Family

  • Episode 084: Back to School: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp Part 1

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, together with my law partner, Anita Koumriqian, we discuss the immigration process for married couples, specifically, the Petition to Remove the Conditions on Permanent Residence otherwise known as form I-751. We're sharing all of the details, the process, who needs to go through this, what it is, as well as some best practices.

Just to give you a bit of context, for individuals who got their green card based on marriage, they can get a CR1 category green card, which means they're a conditional resident valid for a maximum period of two years. Somebody who files a green card application and gets it prior to their two-year wedding anniversary will fall under the CR1 category. And somebody that has their green card approved after their two-year wedding anniversary will receive the full 10-year green card. The purpose of the I-751 is to determine your intention of when you initially got married and when you initially got that green card.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The purpose of the I-751, filing and timeline * How it’s based on the wedding anniversary * Examples of “good faith” * What happens when you get divorced * Proof and documentation when filing the I-751 * How the timeline overlaps with filing for U.S. citizenship

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 027: How to Prepare for Visa and Green Card Interview

  • Episode 049: Never Do This in Immigration – Family

  • Episode 064: Immigration, Prenups & Divorce with Lydia Hsu and Kara Foster

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’ll dive back in and give you a refresher on extraordinary ability visas. We're talking about O-1A's for people who are coming temporarily to the U.S. as well as EB-1A green cards. These are the ones that you can self-petition by being a leader in your field in a country outside of the U.S.

I also talk briefly about the LIKE Act, a bill for a startup visa, which is a very exciting program I’m grateful to be a part of. It's not a law yet. But this is a major real step forward. And I contributed some of the changes to its passage such as the removal of the numerical limitations. So if you're going to get a green card through this new program, you do not have to wait in any sort of line based on your country of birth. You just immediately apply for the phase two adjustment of status or an immigrant visa. There's no additional backlog and you will not have to look at the visa bulletin.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The LIKE Act for startup visas * The increase in demand for tech talent in the U.S. * No quota and lottery for the O-1A visa * What you get from the Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp * Things to take note of regarding O-1 visas and EB-1A green card

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 066: Cap-Exempt H-1Bs with Danielle Goldman

  • Episode 081: The Engineers I’m Recruiting Want H-1B Transfers and Green Cards… What Do I Do?

  • Episode 69: How to Have 2 Jobs When You’re on an H-1B

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m joined by my colleague and business immigration attorney, Gilberto Orozco, Jr. as we talk about dive into a very technical area of U.S. immigration law, which is the world of AC21 Portability which has something to do with H-1B'sand green cards.

We tackle questions we get all the time from people who are looking at transferring jobs in the United States or maybe starting tech companies and wanting to understand the H-1B and green card process.

AC21 stands for the American Competitiveness in the 21st Century Act. It was enacted by Congress in 2000 to stay competitive with H-1Bs.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The purpose of AC21 * 3 basic things that AC21 allows for people * 2 types of H-1B extensions * The 365 day rule for one-year extensions * Requirements for getting a 3-year AC21 extension * The 180-day portability rule

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: U.S. Visa Bulletin

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 030: H-1B Nitty Gritty #1: Transfer, Extensions, Amendments in Tech

  • Episode 031: H-1B Nitty Gritty #2: H-1B Transfer for Startup Founders

  • Episode 011: Your Startup’s First H-1B

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m taking a deep dive into the International Entrepreneur Parole, specifically, its regulations, what makes a qualified investor and a qualified investment, as well as the criteria for government awards or grants.

IEP is a two and a half-year program with a two and a half-year renewal that allows you to come to the U.S. for up to five years total. Your spouse can get a work permit and you can apply for some other type of visa or green card in the U.S. before, during or after you have an IEP. There are a few basic requirements. You must have a U.S. startup or a business entity, own at least 10% of it, and play a role in your business, and be able to present evidence that your startup has the potential for growth.

If you need more context, be sure to listen to Episode 73 and a better understanding of what it is and its history, as this episode is going to be more of a nuanced, deep-dive into IEP.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Definition of a qualified investor * Two basic requirements they must have done in the past 5 years * Employee requirements * What makes a qualified investment and what doesn’t count * Criteria for government awards and grants

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 73: International Entrepreneur Parole is Back!

  • Episode 78: Parole Entry Process

  • Episode 41: Investing in Immigrant Entrepreneurs with VC Carmen Pallafox

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’ll discuss how to hire people on H-1B. There is a severe shortage of engineers in Silicon Valley right now. Our phone has been ringing off the hook and we've been getting so many email inquiries from CEOs, HR folks, recruiters, and other people who are hiring rapidly. And these scaling technology companies are frustrated and confused because they're not able to fill their companies as quickly as they would like to, especially after receiving a funding round.

The landscape has changed very quickly for hiring in the last several months. At the beginning of COVID, our conversations were around what if they had to lay somebody off. Now, those have transitioned into how they could hire 100 engineers in the United States within the next 12 months because they don't know where to find qualified people to fill those roles.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Why companies want to sponsor talent for green cards * Sponsoring their family members * Stats from Envoy’s 2021 Immigration Trends Report * Timeline for green card sponsorship * General questions you need to ask when hiring * H-1B transfers and lottery

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Envoy’s 2021 Immigration Trends Report

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 03: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas

  • Episode 30: H-1B Nitty Gritty #1: Transfer, Extensions, Amendments in Tech
  • Episode 57: 11 Tips for Companies to Support Valued Humans
  • Episode 66: Cap-Exempt H-1Bs with Danielle Goldman

  • Episode 69: How to Have 2 Jobs When You’re on an H-1B

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m chatting with Marc Pavlopoulos, the founder of Syndesus and Path to Canada.

Syndesus is a professional employer organization (PEO) that employs Canadians remotely in Canada for U.S. tech companies. They handle all the Canadian complexity including payroll, HR, health care, and making stock options work. It's the easiest solution for a US company looking to hire talent. Path to Canada helps people, from anywhere in the world, qualify for immigration, get a job with a Canadian tech company that will sponsor the work visa, and establish life in a new country.

Today's episode is relevant to motivated global professionals and startup founders who want to erase the artificial barrier of political borders covering our globe so that companies can succeed and talent can be in a place so you can focus on your job and be productive.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Why it’s a great option to build up a team in Canada * How the two countries can work more fluidly in the perfect world * The huge shortage of jobs in the Silicon Valley * What is a PEO model? * Getting permanent residence citizenship in Canada

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: www.syndesus.com

https://www.path2canada.ca

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Path to E-2 visa for citizens of non-treaty countries

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, Anita Koumriqian, Partner at Alcorn Immigration Law, fills in this week for Sophie Alcorn. She is joined by Lanie Denslow, a cultural competence and business protocol consultant who founded World Wise Intercultural Training & Resources in 2000 to help professionals successfully navigate the cultural differences that emerge in today's complex, fast-moving and global business environment.

Today, learn about how culture shows up in people’s behavior and how you can build your cultural competence. One of those small cultural things that are easy to create are misunderstandings. You could end up insulting someone without you knowing it, or the other way around.

Cultural competence is about understanding that there are different cultures and that behaviors are influenced by culture, which hopefully leads to a better understanding of other people’s cultures. As a result, you’re able to build better relationships and interaction with other people, whether they're your colleagues or your clients.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How Lanie discovered her passion for cultural awareness and competence training * What is cultural competence? * How culture shows up in people’s behavior * Examples of cultural differences and how to bridge that gap * What to do if you insulted someone (or they insulted you) * How international professionals can build their culture competence * How the pandemic affected cultural understandings and culture

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: https://worldwiseonline.net/

Working With Americans: How to Build Profitable Business Relationships by Allyson Stewart Allen and Lanie Denslow

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 34: J-1 Two-Year Foreign Residency Requirement

  • Episode 57: 11 Tips for Companies to Support Valued Humans

  • Episode 70: Talent Acquisition for Startups with Katie Lampert

  • Path to E-2 visa for citizens of non-treaty countries

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

Working with Americans: How to Build Profitable Business Relationships

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, we're going to talk about how to enter the United States using the new immigration status for startup founders called International Entrepreneur Parole – what it is, how it works, and what to expect.

For the first time in decades, the United States actually has a new immigration pathway, which directly supports our community here at Immigration Law for Tech Startups. It's practically a new immigration status in the United States. It’s not a visa nor a green card. It's not citizenship – but it's another type of United States immigration program, specifically, for people who have founded tech companies that are going to scale rapidly and now have this pathway to come here.

Keep in mind this is a novel program so it’s going to be evolving. We will continue to give you updates as we usher people through and as we generate more ideas around its variations and combinations as well as how to make it work in different situations.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How the program has been used historically and why it exists * How this program is now beneficial to tech startup founders * Interesting stats on foreign-born entrepreneurs in the U.S. * An overview of how the process works * Duration of stay in the U.S. and renewal * The Boarding Foil requirement in each port of entry * Work authorization for spouses

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Amy Feldman’s article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/amyfeldman/2021/06/03/why-the-us-is-losing-immigrant-entrepreneurs-to-other-nations/?sh=3821cc925f0b

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 41: Investing in Immigrant Entrepreneurs with VC Carmen Pallafox

  • Episode 67: Diplomacy Through Supporting Entrepreneurs with Lilly Wahl-Tuco

  • Episode 73: International Entrepreneur Parole is Back!

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, my partner, Anita Koumriqian, joins our discussion on immigration from a family perspective.

We cover everything you need to know about how it works, if you want to bring family members to the United States, whether you have a green card or citizenship already, or whether you're going to be moving here on some other type of visa. Who can you bring with you? Can they work? How long can they stay? And what do you need to know so that you can take care of your loved ones in the immigration process?

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Who can petition (U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents) * How the categories are different for parents and spouses versus siblings * Who are subject to The Visa Bulletin * How the consular processing works * Updates on green cards at the consulates with COVID and slow reopening in some places and closure of consulates in India * Biometrics and medical exams * H1-B and O-1 visas * Types of visas that allow spouses to work * Can students bring their spouses? * How kids become citizens * The benefits of a Certificate of Citizenship

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Path to Green Card

The Visa Bulletin

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 74: Diversity Immigrant Visa Program

  • Episode: 36: 7 Ways to Expedite Your Immigration Case

  • Episode 18: Dependent Visas and Work Permits

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’m excited to have Edward Gorbis join me as we discuss some practical mental tips and practices to help you develop an unbreakable mindset geared towards success.

Edward is a performance coach, a startup advisor, a keynote speaker and an author. Born in Ukraine, his family immigrated to the United States (with a little stopover in Israel prior to coming to the U.S.). For most immigrant families, they want their kids to become either a doctor, a lawyer, or an engineer – Edward chose the latter. Once he had reached a level of stability, he realized he wasn’t aligned as an engineer, and so, he transitioned into the coaching world.

Edward is the founder of Career Meets World, a leadership coaching platform that helps immigrants and first generation professionals thrive in their careers and life. Today, we discuss his immigrant story, his professional journey, some of the pain points immigrants face and how to overcome those hurdles so they could ultimately get into a place where they want to be.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Edward’s immigration story * How he transitioned from engineering into performance coaching * Edward’s identity crisis that led him to ask “who am I?” * Teaching people how to train their subconscious to get from Point A to Point B * Why business is not a fight or flight game and where to focus on * Some tools and processes he uses to help immigrants build their confidence * Mental practices you can do to start gearing up now and overcome any mental hurdles * Why mindset work is the key to getting out of suffering and into a beautiful state

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: * Career Meets World * Edward Gorbis * Free e-book, Unbreakable Mindset by Edward Gorbis * Edward welcomes starting a conversation with you on LinkedIn or Twitter

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 41: Investing in Immigrant Entrepreneurs with VC Carmen Pallafox

  • Episode 62: Investing in Diversity with Esther Tricoche

  • Episode 63: Immigration, Global Mobility, Working from Home, and the Future of Work

Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’ll discuss the latest immigration changes under the Biden administration. In Biden’s first 100 days in office, there have been some meaningful changes in immigration for startups, founders, investors, researchers, highly skilled professionals, students, Dreamers, and families under his administration.

Firstly, the Biden administration has ended some Trump era policies such as the Muslim ban, the banning of the public charge rule, as well as the working visa bans, specifically on H1-B visas, J visas, and L visas. Biden has allowed many of these rules to lapse. Notably, green card processing is back on at U.S. embassies and consulates around the world (which is great news!)

There have been many changes that will definitely benefit families, asylum seekers and people in removal proceedings. This has been the main focus of the administration. Although not so much on the business side, we are still starting to see positive changes in business immigration as well.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The ending of the Muslim ban * Ending the public charge rule * Lifting the ban on working visas such as H1-B visas, J visas, and L visas * Protection of dreamers and people under the DACA program * Renewals made easier * Some areas where Biden has kept Trump era immigration policies and maintained the status quo or only made minimal changes * Biden's promises that have yet to be realized * Changes in family immigration as well as business immigration * How they’re dealing with the immigration issues at the southern border

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

    • Episode 43: What a Biden Victory Means for Immigration
    • Episode 47: 2020 End of Year Immigration Recap
    • Episode 60: H1-B Lottery Planning Part2
    • Episode 33: All About the J-1 Exchange Visa
    • Episode 023: Update on DACA, Trump, H-1B, Rule of Law
  • Dear Sophie: Is Unemployment Considered a Public Benefit?

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, my partner, Anita Koumriqian, is joining us today as we discuss the annual Green Card Lottery called Diversity Visas.

Under the diversity immigrant visa program, 50,000 green cards are made available each year to people who are born in countries that have lower rates of immigration in the U.S. Similar to the H1-B lottery, it's a pure random online lottery, but anybody can apply for it as long as their country is eligible.

Diversity green card candidates may apply either while residing outside the U.S. or while residing in the U.S. If you're outside of the U.S., you go through the consular process. And if you're in the United States, you can file the green card with USCIS as an adjustment of status, just like how all other green card applications are.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Examples of countries that don’t qualify for this type of visa * The crux of the diversity lottery program * Eligibility requirements for diversity visas * Application timeline, minimum number of submissions, and zero registration fee * How to know that you’ve been selected and what to do next * Applying for green card based on the visa bulletin * Can your spouse and/or children come with the applicant? * The interview process * Things to look for in an attorney to help you with this process

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: List of countries eligible for diversity visas

Visa Bulletin

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 49: Never Do This in Immigration – Family

  • Episode 27: How to Prepare for Visa and Green Card Interview

  • Blog: Diversity Green Cards

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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Are you a startup founder looking to build your business legally in the United States? Or does your spouse happen to be a startup founder and you’re looking to have an opportunity to work legally in the U.S.?

Today, we talk about the return of International Entrepreneur Parole, a new (and old) program that allows international startup founders to live and work legally and build their companies in the United States.

This is fantastic, incredible news for startup founders around the world. Whether you're in the U.S. or not, whether you've ever had an H1-B, working visa, or student F1 visa or not – it doesn't matter – you can still qualify for this program if you meet the requirements.

The International Entrepreneur Parole is not a visa. It’s not a green card. The way the law is written is very flexible. They want to support international startup founders to build companies because they know this is a job creation engine for the United States. We all know our economy has hit some bumps in the road with COVID, and so anything we can do to create jobs would be beneficial for this program, our country, and the world.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • An overview of the International Entrepreneur Parole
  • Why it’s both a new and old program at the same time
  • Who qualifies for this program
  • Some information you need to provide when you're going through this process
  • Can you still get a green card? Is change of status possible?
  • Immigration parole vs. immigration visa
  • How it compares to an O-1A and and H1-B
  • International Entrepreneur Parole FAQs answered

Resources mentioned:

The Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp

https://alcorn-immigration-law.teachable.com/p/extraordinary-ability-bootcamp

Use the promo code ILTS when you sign up and get a 20% discount.

Alcorn Immigration Firm

https://www.alcorn.law/

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook.

https://witty-author-184.ck.page/56ccd401fc

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this week’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast, I’ll discuss five work visas specifically for international talent from certain countries:

  • H-1B1 visa for Chileans and Singaporeans in specialty occupations
  • E-1 visa for treaty traders
  • E-2 visa for treaty investors

  • E-3 visa for specialty occupation professionals from Australia

  • TN (Treaty National) visa for Canadians and Mexicans

All five of these visas require an employer sponsor and are the result of special trade treaties between the United States and specific countries. To qualify for any of these visas, the candidate must be a citizen of the country specified. Unlike green cards, in which your country of birth matters in determining your place in line for a green card, these visas only require you to be a citizen of the country.

Depending on your citizenship or who you want to hire, these specialized—and rarely used compared to the H-1B, L-1, and O-1—visas offer a relatively quick way to come to or bring international talent to work in the U.S.

Please share this episode with companies, HR and recruiting professionals, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The basic requirements for the H-1B1, E-3, TN, E-1, and E-2 work visas * The pros and cons of each of the work visas, including whether a spouse can get a work visa or whether you can be self-employed * Specific examples and additional detail based on our work with clients in getting these visas * Why most employers eventually try to shift employees from H-1B1, E-3, or TN visas to H-1B visas * How to qualify for an E-2 visa if you’re a citizen of China, India, or another country that does not have a trade treaty with the United States * The International Entrepreneur Rule

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: U.S. Department of State’s list of Treaty Countries whose citizens qualify for E-1 and E-2 visas

List of professions and educational requirements that qualify for a TN visa

Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast:

  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees

  • Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

  • Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

  • Path to E-2 visa for citizens of non-treaty countries

  • Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

View Details

Before I dive into this week’s episode, I’d like to invite you to the live, spontaneous conversations about the world of immigration that my wonderful law firm partner, Anita Koumriqian, and I have on Clubhouse every Friday morning at 11 a.m. Pacific. Find us on Immigration for Innovation under the Silicon Valley Startups channel on Clubhouse. We hope you’ll join us!

Now, in this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, Anita and I discuss an immigration form that less than a year ago, would not have warranted a full podcast episode dedicated to it: a Receipt Notice (Form I-797)—also called a Notice of Action. We talk about what it is, why it’s important, why U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is taking so long to send them, and what you can do.

Please share this episode with other companies, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest immigration news and issues. Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Receipt notices—what they are and why they’re important to immigration cases * Some of the types and functions of receipt notices * What’s included on a receipt notice * What you can do with a receipt number * How long USCIS was taking to send receipt notices pre-COVID-19 and how long now * What types of immigration cases are affected * A secret way to get your receipt number * What employers and employees on F-1 waiting for STEM OPT extensions * What to do if your application has been rejected * What to do if you haven’t received a receipt notice

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter

Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders

Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m thrilled to be joined by Katie Lampert, who leads the talent acquisition and infrastructure group at General Catalyst, a venture capital firm that invests in seed to growth-stage startups.

A 20-year-old firm, General Catalyst, which is based in Cambridge, Mass., and has offices in New York, San Francisco, and Silicon Valley, is sector agnostic and invests in startups both in the U.S. and internationally. Katie’s group serves as a talent advisory to General Catalyst’s portfolio of companies. The group supports startups through the talent spectrum, from talent acquisition needs and compensation requirements to referrals to best-of-class recruiters to establishing company culture and best practices for creating positive employee experiences.

“The different inflection points that companies go through as they relate to talent and hiring is really exciting,” Katie says. “We say that we invest in powerful, positive change that endures, so we’re really looking at what makes an enduring company and what that means from a leadership perspective and a culture and values perspective.”

Katie shares her experience in the talent acquisition field and discusses trends for the future of work. “I’m excited to see what comes,” she says.

Please share this episode with international startup founders, professionals, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad. We will soon start a feature in our monthly newsletter spotlighting an international startup founder who has made it in the United States. Don’t miss these inspiring success stories! Sign up here to receive our newsletter.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How Katie got her start in talent acquisition * Her experience doing leadership recruitment at Tesla * How data analysis is used in talent acquisition and infrastructure * General Catalyst and its investment focus * What Katie does at General Catalyst * Katie’s recruiting and hiring advice for early-stage startups * How startups can create a culture committed to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion * Trends shaping around whether to remain remote-first or return to work post-pandemic * Katie’s take on the future of work

And don’t miss my upcoming conversations with other top technology thought leaders, venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, and futurists on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or whatever your favorite platform is. We welcome your rating and review! Thanks!

Resources: Connect with General Catalyst and subscribe to the company’s newsletter

From Alcorn Immigration Law:

  • Subscribe to the Alcorn Immigration Law Newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups: Immigration, Global Mobility, Working from Home and the Future of Work
  • Immigration Options Chart
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

View Details

Before I dive into what you’ll hear in this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I want to highlight a few things:

  • I’m looking for international startup founders who have a strong case for filing for Entrepreneur Parole, which is the closest status to a startup visa in the U.S. If your startup is a Delaware C-corp, you have at least a 10% stake, raised at least $300,000 from investors, and are interested in joining me on this journey, fill out this form. Even if you don’t qualify, fill out the form to stay on our interest list.
  • I’m honored to have been selected to be a mentor at 500 Startups, a top global startup accelerator program. International startup founders, check out 500 Startups!

Now, on to the matter of holding two H-1B jobs (concurrent H-1Bs) that I discuss in detail in this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups.

An H-1B visa is tied to a specific job with a specific employer. However, there are no limits on the number of H-1B jobs an individual can hold and no minimum—or maximum—number of hours a person can work in an H-1B position. Given that, an individual can hold concurrent H-1B visas from different employers: You can keep your current H-1B job while creating your startup, which can sponsor you for a second H-1B and avoid the lottery. Or an employer can avoid the H-1B lottery if the employee gets an H-1B visa from a university, a nonprofit associated with a university, or another lottery exempt employer first.

Reach out to us if we can help you navigate the H-1B process.

Please share this episode with other companies, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. We can help companies and talent determine the best immigration options whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The requirements for an H-1B and a concurrent H-1B * Why you should be careful when pursuing a concurrent H-1B * What you need to consider before proceeding, particularly if you want to have your startup sponsor you for an H-1B while retailing an H-1B with another employer * Unique requirements for H-1B from your startup * The Open Avenues Foundation and its Global Talent Fellowship

Don’t miss my upcoming conversation with Danielle Goldman, executive director of Open Avenues Foundation, or any other top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law

  • All About H-1Bs
  • Alcorn Immigration Law’s YouTube Channel
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.
  • What everyone at a startup needs to know about immigration
  • Subscribe to the monthly newsletter
  • If you’re affiliated with a university and could offer a cap-exempt H-1B similar to Open Avenues Foundation’s Global Talent Fellowship program, reach out to us.

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

  • Episode 9: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1
  • Episode 31: H-1B Nitty Gritty #2: H-1B Transfer for Startup Founders
  • Subscribe to Immigration Law for Tech Startups

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, my amazing colleagues, Anita Koumriqian, my law partner and a family immigration law expert, and Cori Farooqi, an associate attorney on our family immigration team, provide an update on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).

Since January, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has been accepting new DACA applications and employment authorization (work permits) in addition to renewals. Anita and Cori talk about the requirements for filing for DACA for the first time and give a run down of the House and Senate bills that—if passed—will offer a path to citizenship for Dreamers.

Please share this episode with other companies, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. Sign up for the Alcorn monthly newsletter to receive the latest on DACA and other immigration news.

Reach out to us if we can help you determine the best immigration options for yourself, your company, your employees or prospective employees, or your family whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is * The highs and lows of DACA during the Trump administration * Criteria for qualifying for DACA * The one significant misdemeanor that could disqualify you from getting DACA * Differences between the House and Senate bills

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: American Immigration Council Fact Sheet on The Dream Act

Alcorn Immigration Law offerings

  • Subscribe to the Alcorn newsletter
  • DACA information page
  • Citizenship Through Naturalization information page
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups: Becoming a U.S. Citizen: Naturalization and Citizenship
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.
  • Subscribe to the monthly newsletter

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

View Details

Before I dive into this week’s episode, I want to take a moment to let you all know that I’m looking for international startup founders to be guinea pigs for filing for what’s called entrepreneur parole under the International Entrepreneur Rule (IER). The IER was created through an executive order after President Obama was unable to persuade Congress to create a startup visa and was finalized during the waning days of his administration. The Trump administration took action to do away with it but didn’t follow the proper procedure to do so, and the rule remains on the books. Take a look at the requirements for the rule, and contact me here if you think your case would serve as a strong one under the IER.

Now, back to this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups. I’m absolutely thrilled to be joined by Lilly Wahl-Tuco, a U.S. diplomat and innovator.

For 15 years, Lilly has been a foreign service officer with the U.S. Department of State in variety of positions, serving in Paris, Skopje, Sarajevo, and Washington, D.C. In 2012, she co-founded Balancing Act, an innovative group that helped modernize HR policies at the State Department by advocating for programs and policies that improved and continue to improve the work-life balance of employees.

The State Department operates the U.S. embassies and consulates where foreign service officers process visas and green cards for individuals living outside of the United States. In fact, Lilly’s first assignment was conducting visa interviews at the U.S. Embassy in Paris. What many people may not know is that through its embassies and consulates, the State Department also organizes and sponsors entrepreneurship events, programs, and grants to inspire budding entrepreneurs in the host countries, as well as facilitate exchanges with the U.S. Lilly served as the State Department’s first Environment, Science, Technology and Health (ESTH) officer U.S. Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“What I tell entrepreneurs that I meet is ‘Inch-by-inch, it’s a cinch,’” says Lilly. “A mentor taught me that. You gotta start small and really think about what you want to do...what are you trying to accomplish and can you get there in small increments?”

Please share this episode with aspiring entrepreneurs, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Lily’s journey from Naples, Italy, to life as a foreign diplomat with the State Department * Her first assignment as a foreign diplomat, and subsequent assignments * Lily’s lessons learned during her career journey * What it’s like to be a visa or green card interviewer at a U.S. embassy or consulate * How she helped co-found Balancing Act * The “cones” of foreign service * Resources and programs that the State Department offers to international entrepreneurs

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with other top technology thought leaders, venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, and futurists on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or whatever your favorite platform is. We welcome your rating and review!

Resources: A few of the U.S. Department of State’s entrepreneurship programs and grants (more detail can be found on specific embassy websites):

  • Office of Policy and Public Outreach
  • Resources for Entrepreneurs
  • International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP)
  • Young Transatlantic Innovation Leaders Initiative (YTILI)
  • African Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP)
  • Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST)
  • Open Grant Solicitations (Check your local U.S. Embassy website)
  • Global Entrepreneurship Summits (Check your local U.S. Embassy website)
  • Global Entrepreneurship Week is in November (Check your local U.S. Embassy for events)

“Balancing Act’s Formula for Driving Institutional Change” by Lillian Wahl-Tuco

Alcorn Immigration Law publications and courses:

  • Subscribe to the Alcorn Immigration Law Newsletter
  • Immigration Options Chart
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m absolutely thrilled to be joined by Danielle Goldman, executive director of Open Avenues Foundation.

Open Avenues Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that Danielle co-founded in 2018 with her father, Jeff Goldman, a business immigration attorney. Open Avenues creates a path for international talent to contribute to the innovation economy in the United States and educate the future STEM workforce on a cap-exempt H-1B.

Under its Global Talent Fellowship program, Open Avenues hires international professionals to teach university students in the U.S.under a cap-exempt H-1B, which allows companies to sponsor these international professionals for a concurrent H-1B thereby avoiding the timing restrictions and randomness of the annual H-1B lottery. Listen to find out how to apply to this fellowship, whether you’re an international professional or a company looking to sponsor an individual for an H-1B, and how to reach Danielle to discuss options.

Please share this episode with international startup founders, professionals, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

We will soon be starting a feature in our monthly newsletter spotlighting an international startup founder who has made it in the United States. Don’t miss these inspiring success stories! Sign up here to receive our newsletter.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How Open Avenues Foundation’s program works and how international talent, the companies who want to hire or retain them, and university students all benefit * Global International Entrepreneur-in-Residence programs and why they are difficult to scale * The four organization types that are exempt from the once-a-year H-1B lottery * Concurrent H-1Bs * What professional and educational backgrounds Open Avenues Foundation looks for in international talent it accepts into its H-1B fellowship program * Danielle’s wish list for policy changes she would like to see in the H-B visa program

And don’t miss my upcoming conversations with other top technology thought leaders, venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, and futurists on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or whatever your favorite platform is. We welcome your rating and review!

Resources: Open Avenues Foundation’s Global Talent Fellowship

McKinsey & Co.’s May 2020 report, Diversity wins: How inclusion matters

Alcorn Immigration Law publications and courses:

  • Subscribe to the Alcorn Immigration Law Newsletter
  • All About H-1Bs
  • Immigration Options Chart
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m joined by my amazing colleague, Nadia Zaidi, an associate attorney and a member of our business team at Alcorn Immigration Law. We discuss what sponsoring employers should do after the H-1B lottery, whether their H-1B candidate was selected—or not.

We layout the H-1B petition filing timeline and things you should consider when putting together an H-1B petition. If your candidate was selected, and you haven’t done so already, we recommend hiring an experienced immigration attorney right away. We also offer up a host of other options to those employers and their prospective employees who were not selected in the lottery, so don’t panic! We’ve got you covered! If you’re in this situation, we also recommend you consult an experienced immigration attorney to discuss these and potentially other options based on your situation and that of your current or prospective employee.

Reach out to us if we can help you navigate the H-1B filing process or find alternatives to the annual H-1B lottery. If you’re affiliated with a university and could offer a cap-exempt H-1B similar to Open Avenues Foundation’s Global Talent Fellowship program, we’d love to hear from you, too. If you’re an international founder whose startup was founded in the past three years, fill out this form if you’d like us to consider taking you on as a client to apply for a startup visa under the International Entrepreneur Rule (IER).

Please share this episode with other companies, startup founders, international talent, or anyone who can benefit from it. We can help companies and talent determine the best immigration options whether in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The timeline for submitting a full H-1B application and the earliest start date for the H-1B candidate and things the H-1B candidate and employer should consider * Decisions you need to make before starting the application process * Why we recommend that H-1B candidates already in the U.S. remain here if they can * Why we recommend going with premium processing * General tips for filing a full H-1B petition * What H-1B candidates and employers should expect for next year’s H-1B lottery process * Options for employers and H-1B candidates who weren’t selected in the lottery * The International Entrepreneur Rule, the closest thing the U.S. has to a startup visa. * The shift next year to a wage-based H-1B selection process * Cap-exempt H-1B through programs such as the one offered by Open Avenues Foundation * EllisX, which can help startups and their founders get media coverage and speaking engagements that can help international founders qualify for an extraordinary ability visa or green card

Don’t miss my upcoming conversation with Danielle Goldman, executive director of Open Avenues Foundation, or any other conversation with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law Quiz will evaluate what type of visa you’d qualify for and set up a consultation with us

Curious to Test IER with Alcorn form for international startup founders to evaluate whether you would serve as a good test case for a startup visa

Alcorn Immigration Law publications, blog posts, info, and courses

  • All About H-1Bs
  • Immigration Options Chart
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Didn’t Win in the H-1B Lottery? Now What?
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.
  • What everyone at a startup needs to know about immigration
  • Nonimmigrant (temporary) visa options: F-1, E-2, J-1, L-1, B-1
  • Marriage-based immigrant visa (green card)

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

  • Episode 9: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1
  • Episode 3: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas
  • Episode 4: An Overview of the Green Card Process
  • Episode 44: 7 of the Most Startup-Friendly Visas Explained

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, my amazing law partner, Anita Koumriqian, who is an expert in family immigration law matters, talks with Lydia Hsu and Kara Foster, the co-founders of Foster Hsu, LLP, a family law firm based in San Jose. Founded in 2019, Foster Hsu offers a full range of family legal services, including prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, domestic violence, divorce, and child custody.

Lydia and Kara primarily discuss prenups, postnups, and divorce, and issues to consider when a soon-to-be spouse, spouse, or soon-to-be ex-spouse is an immigrant, and where family immigration law takes precedence over family law.

Anita points out that for marriage-based green cards, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officers want to see that couples are commingling funds in a joint bank account, which points to a good-faith marriage. If you are commingling funds, own property, own equity in a startup or own a business or all of the above, you should talk with a family law attorney before getting married—or it’s too late for that—talk with a family law attorney about a postnuptial agreement, particularly if you live in a community property state like California, say Lydia and Kara.

“A prenup may not be right for you,” says Kara, “but at least you should be educated going into a marriage and know what you’re going to be responsible for, what your obligations are going to be, and how California is going to treat your property, assets, and income during the marriage. We have a lot of people coming in later for a divorce saying, ‘If I knew this, I would have done everything differently.’”

Please share this episode with individuals who are engaged or anyone else who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are and what each agreement typically covers * Why prenups are more common these days * What it means to live in a community property state like California * Options for structuring spousal support * What USCIS prefers to see in marriage-based green card cases * Whether prenups and postnups are public record, and can they negatively impact an immigration case * Whether each individual should be represented by her/his own attorney when drawing up a prenup or postnup * Some of the reasons why prenups or postnups end up in court * How to keep costs down when working with a family law attorney on a prenup, postnup, or divorce * The effect the Affidavit of Support in a marriage-based green card petition has on spousal support in a prenuptial agreement and divorce settlement * Whether a prenup or a postnup should be translated into the native language of the individuals * What immigrants should know about the divorce process in the U.S. and enforceability of prenups and postnups * What happens when a sponsoring spouse threatens to have the immigrant spouse deported

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with other top technology thought leaders, venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, and futurists on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or whatever your favorite platform is. We welcome your rating and review!

Resources: Foster Hsu, LLP

Immigration Law for Tech Startups Podcasts

  • Episode 13: Show the Love: Family-based Alternatives for Technology Professionals
  • Episode 49: Never Do This in Immigration – Family

Alcorn Immigration Law information, publications and courses:

  • Path to Green Card handout
  • Family green card options
  • Subscribe to the Alcorn Immigration Law Newsletter
  • Immigration Options Chart
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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If you’re listening to this episode, then you’ve made it through one year of the pandemic. This shared collective human experience has shown me how connected we all are. I’m honored to be connected to you.

In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I discuss immigration strategies and the future of work, particularly as the pace of technological change accelerates and the widespread adoption of remote working during the pandemic.

Even before the pandemic, many of our clients preferred having an online meeting with us rather than driving one to two hours depending on traffic from San Francisco to Mountain View in Silicon Valley, where our office is located. But is a fully distributed workforce a good thing? What’s gained and what’s lost? And what are the implications of the U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021 if it passes? I discuss this and more in this episode. Take a listen and let me know your thoughts on the future of work by leaving a comment below.

Please reach out to us if we can help you navigate the immigration process. Share this episode with anyone you think will benefit from it. We can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad. We’d be honored to play a role in your journey to achieve the life of your dreams in the United States.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The work trends that were accelerated by and during the pandemic * What companies should consider when determining future in-person vs. remote working strategies * What strategies employers should consider when hiring and retaining international employees * What international entrepreneurs with a startup abroad should consider before deciding whether or not to come to the U.S. and/or open an office in the U.S. * The strategies international talent should think about if the goal is living and working in the U.S. * New trends in the Silicon Valley ecosystem and whether they may last post-pandemic * Implications of the proposed U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021 for work visas and employment-based green cards if the legislation is passed

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law publications, blog posts, and courses

  • Immigration Options Chart
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

  • Episode 12: The Visa Options All Recruiters Should Know
  • Episode 39: Startup Law with Attorney Lindsey Mignano
  • Episode 41: Investing in Immigrant Entrepreneurs with VC Carmen Palafox
  • Episode 56: Global Innovation with Tim Draper
  • Episode 57: 11 Tips for Companies to Support Valued Humans
  • Episode XX: Esther Tricoche

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcityp1ro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m absolutely thrilled to be joined by Esther Tricoche, director of investments at Kapor Capital, the venture capital investment arm of the Kapor Center for Social Impact based in Oakland.

Kapor Capital invests in tech-driven, early-stage startups that expand access and opportunities to low-income communities or communities of color in the U.S. Esther focuses on investments in other VC funds that share Kapor Capital’s values.

During our discussion, Esther shared her origin story of growing up in Houston under the poverty line. “I had no idea what venture capital was,” she says. “Venture capital wasn’t on my radar until after college.”

However, once the VC world came onto her radar, she quickly excelled in that world. By the age of 30, Esther had deployed $150 million in investment funds, had co-founded an edtech accelerator and venture fund, and was featured in Forbes 30 under 30 in education.

Listen to Esther discuss how diverse teams drive better financial outcomes, surprising new research from Pitchbook about female founders and CEOs, her words of wisdom for founders, and what she expects—and hopes for—in 2021.

Please share this episode with aspiring entrepreneurs, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Esther’s origin story and early career in devising human rights policy, education policy, funding and supporting edtech startups, and later social enterprises expanding around the globe * How Hurricanes Harvey and Maria in 2017 prompted a pivotal shift in her career * What international cities are the biggest entrepreneurial hotspots, and why investors in those markets are similar to VC market in Atlanta * Esther’s assessment of where the biggest investment gaps are in emerging markets * Kapor Capital’s investment philosophy * Esther’s focus at Kapor Capital * How diverse teams drive better financial outcomes * Interesting trends in a recent report published by Pitchbook * Why a lot of VC funds are focusing on immigrant founders * Esther’s words of wisdom for founders * What she expects in 2021

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with other top technology thought leaders, venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, and futurists on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or whatever your favorite platform is. We welcome your rating and review of this podcast.

Resources: Kapor Capital

Kauffman Foundation

Pitchbook’s All In: Female Founders and CEOs in the US VC Ecosystem

Alcorn Immigration Law publications and courses:

  • Subscribe to the Alcorn Immigration Law Newsletter
  • Immigration Options Chart
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

TechCrunch column:

What everyone at a startup needs to know about immigration

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m absolutely thrilled to be joined by

Navroop Sahdev, a pioneering economist and blockchain expert, who has already achieved so much early in her career: She’s the founder and CEO of The Digital Economist, a Connection Science Fellow at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and a partner at NextGen Venture Partners, an early-stage venture capital firm.

Navroop shares her immigration journey. “I never imagined I would ever be out of India—even for a visit,” she says, describing her upbringing in Punjab. Then “I remember how frustrated I was in India. When I was 19 years old, I started looking into going overseas.”

Navroop also shares her thoughts on U.S. immigration policy and what entrepreneurs need to do. “Talent is equally distributed in the world, but opportunity is not. That’s where the reform needs to happen,” she says. “I’m optimistic with a new administration reforming a 200-year-old system.”

To immigrate to the U.S., she needed to figure out what extraordinary skills she possessed and could contribute, first on an O-1 extraordinary ability visa and then for an EB-1A extraordinary ability green card. “[W]hat was missing [in the blockchain space] was an economist bringing insights or building the next economic systems of the future,” she says. “That became my differentiating value proposition and that’s the type of thing you need for O-1 or EB-1.”

Please share this episode with aspiring entrepreneurs, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Navroop shares the push and pull factors that led her to leave her native India and go first to Canada, then to Italy, and eventually to the U.S. * She shares her immigration experience in the U.S. and the following: B-1/B-2 visitor visa, J-1 exchange visa, H-1B specialty occupation visa, O-1 visa, and EB-1A green card * Why Navroop says it matters what organization or company sponsors your work visa * What mindset shift needs to happen when you’re getting sponsored by a company for an O-1 visa or self-petitioning for an EB-1A green card * What The Digital Economist does * Why the future is fintech, blockchain, and cryptocurrency * What type of jobs will disappear * Why finding a differentiated valued proposition is important in immigration * Why Navroop recommends an O-1 visa over the H-1B visa * Navroop’s advice for other entrepreneurs

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with other top technology thought leaders, venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, and futurists on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or whatever your favorite platform is. We welcome your rating and review!

Resources: The Digital Economist’s Entrepreneur in Training program; sign up to The Digital Economist’s mailing list for the latest info on this program and others

Alcorn Immigration Law publications and courses:

  • Subscribe to the Alcorn Immigration Law Newsletter
  • Immigration Options Chart
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

TechCrunch column:

What everyone at a startup needs to know about immigration

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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This episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups is the second in a two-part series on how to plan for this year’s upcoming H-1B lottery in March.

Late-breaking news: I recorded this episode before the State Department announced that international students who are currently abroad and holding or applying for new F-1 or M-1 visas will be granted national interest exemptions to the suspension of travel from Europe, the UK, Brazil, and South Africa due to the COVID-19 variant strains, according to Law360. The announcement also stated that business travelers, investors, academics, and journalists traveling on a visa to the U.S. can apply for a national interest exemption. That means H-1B candidates who are abroad will be able to come to the U.S. if they are selected in the March lottery and their H-1B petition is approved.

If you missed Part 1, click on Episode 55: H-1B Lottery Planning Part 1 to listen. Please note that Part 1 was recorded before the Biden administration decided to stick with the random H-1B lottery this year and delay the implementation of a wage-based H-1B lottery until next year. In this episode, I discuss what employers and H-1B candidates should do before the lottery, dates to remember, the H-1B filing process, and backup options in the event an H-1B candidate is not selected in the lottery.

Don’t miss our upcoming free webinar, “Get Ready for the H-1B FY2022 Lottery - Part 2,” on Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021, at 11 am PST. Join me and the Alcorn team as we cover up-to-date info about this year’s random lottery and answer your H-1B questions.

Please reach out to us ASAP if we can help you navigate the H-1B lottery and filing process this year. Share this episode with investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. We can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The latest on this year’s H-1B lottery process and what’s likely to happen next year * Dates to remember for this year’s H-1B lottery and filing process * The benefits of a random lottery and a wage-based lottery * What employers and H-1B candidates should do before the lottery * Why there were two lotteries last year * Why there’s renewed interest in moving to the U.S. * Wage levels * Status of work permits for H-4 visa holders and the public charge rule * Why startups who are new to the process need to find their tax ID number * What is a Labor Condition Application * Consular processing vs. change of status * Premium processing and processing times * Backup options

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law publications, blog posts, and courses

  • All About H-1Bs
  • Immigration Options Chart
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Didn’t Win in the H-1B Lottery? Now What?
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

  • Episode 9: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1
  • Episode 46: Get Ready for H-1B FY2022 Lottery
  • Episode 44: 7 of the Most Startup-Friendly Visas Explained

TechCrunch columns

  • What everyone at a startup needs to know about immigration

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’ll be discussing every startup’s dream problem: Figuring out how to quickly and strategically scale up after raising $5 million to $20 million in a Series A round!

Before I delve in, I want to solicit your suggestions for harnessing the power of Clubhouse, an invitation-only audio-chat social networking app, which I recently joined. I’m @Sophie-Alcorn. I’m considering offering drop-in immigration office hours or panels on immigration topics, such as the H-1B lottery or how a founder can move to the U.S. Please send me your suggestions on Clubhouse or by using the email or social media contacts above or below.

Now, let’s get back to that $20 million dollars! We’ve been contacted by several clients lately whose startups have completed a Series A round and find themselves with an 18-month runway and the need to hire 20 to 100 engineers ASAP or within a certain time frame to achieve hockey-stick growth. And if you aspire to be in this position, know that it’s possible! Listen in for more details and examples of the work visa categories that offer the quickest options for attracting international talent to help you grow your startup. And be sure to check out the resources below.

Anything we can do to help individuals make a better life here in the U.S. and follow their passion will benefit all of us. Please share this episode with recruiters, HR and people ops personnel, investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your company’s best immigration strategy or your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Why immigration is a secret weapon for winning top talent * Work authorization, immigration status, and internal I-9 audits * Topics the management team and investors should discuss * Using immigration as a benefit * Creating an immigration policy * Jobs easily filled by American workers and those that are not * The type of visa holders currently in the U.S. that can start working with a new employer in three to six weeks * The unique benefits of sponsoring an H-1B transfer * The visa categories that are difficult to transfer to a new employer * Which visa categories are relatively quick and easy to obtain for individuals living outside the U.S. * Hiring F-1 students on OPT or STEM OPT and sponsoring them in the H-1B lottery in March

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to the podcast here or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law publications and courses

  • "What everyone at a startup needs to know about immigration”
  • Immigration Cheat Sheet for Recruiters
  • Immigration Options Chart
  • All About H-1Bs
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Immigration Law for Tech Startups podcast

  • Episode 39: Startup Law with Attorney Lindsey Mignano
  • Episode XX: 11 Tips for Companies to Support Valued Humans
  • Episode 12: The Visa Options All Recruiters Should Know
  • Episode 31: H-1B Nitty Gritty #2: H-1B Transfer for Startup Founders
  • Episode 46: Get Ready for H-1B FY2022 Lottery
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1
  • Episode 9: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition

TechCrunch columns

"Dear Sophie: How can we sponsor H-1B transfers and extensions?"

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m thrilled to be joined by my amazing law partner, Anita Koumriqian, who is an expert in family immigration law and coincidentally, just got engaged! Congrats, Anita, we’re so happy for you!

Anita and I will discuss how individuals can go through the immigration process based on love and marriage: We talk about how green card holders and U.S. citizens can sponsor their spouses for a green card, as well as how U.S. citizens can sponsor their fiancé for a visa to get married in the United States.

“Wedding planning is already stressful,” says Anita. “I really feel for people, who on top of wedding planning have to do immigration planning and figure out timing, like postponing their honeymoon until they have a travel document.”

Get our new infographic handout on the Path to a Green Card, which puts everything in perspective and offers a timeline for Bay Area immigration offices. Be sure to check out our other immigration resources below.

Anything we can do to help individuals make a better life here in the U.S. and follow their passion will benefit all of us. Please share this episode with investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if you have any questions. We can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Why we ask all employment-based green card candidates if they’re in a relationship * Which process is quicker: a marriage-based green card or an employment-based green card * The benefits of a marriage-based green card * The K-1 visa, who qualifies, and when it makes sense to pursue * Why it’s important to talk to an experienced immigration attorney * Why it matters if the person needing a green card is inside or outside of the U.S. * What you should keep in mind if you’re in the U.S. on a B-1 or B-2 visitor visa and you marry a U.S. citizen or green card holder * What to do if a married couple wants to move to the U.S. from abroad * Immigrant intent * The financial requirements for sponsoring a spouse for a green card * The process for applying for a marriage-based green card * What to expect during a marriage-based green card interview and what U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officers think about people who bring an attorney with them to their interview * The latest on processing delays due to COVID-19 and new and potential changes to the green card process under the Biden administration

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on your favorite platform. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law publications and courses:

  • Path to a Green Card
  • Subscribe to the Alcorn Newsletter
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Immigration Law for Tech Startups Podcasts

  • Episode 13: Show the Love: Family-based Alternatives for Technology Professionals
  • Episode 49: Never Do This in Immigration – Family

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’ll be discussing 10 tips plus one bonus tip for how companies can support not only their international team members but all their team members to improve their company culture, help everyone stay focused, and avoid burning out.

The immigration process and immigration security are big issues for international team members. Companies that support individuals who have the courage to relocate their lives to come to the U.S. and also demonstrate their ongoing commitment will help attract and retain talent. Companies should:

  1. Foster a company culture that embraces and supports diversity
  2. Deliberately develop a company immigration policy—even if the best policy is no policy
  3. Offer settling-in services
  4. Create company programs to help acclimate and support new international hires
  5. Resources for the dependent spouses of new international hires
  6. Connect with local immigration organizations
  7. Provide advancement programs and opportunities that foster commitments
  8. Proactively engage new international hires
  9. Support the ongoing immigration needs of international talent
  10. Offer global rotation programs for all workers if you’re a multinational company and/or cover costs for international hires to travel to their home country to renew work visas
  11. Consider raising the wages for H-1B candidates that will be registered in this year’s H-1B lottery, which begins on March 1

Listen in for more details and examples for each of these tips. And be sure to check out the resources below.

Anything we can do to help individuals make a better life here in the U.S. and follow their passion will benefit all of us. Please share this episode with investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * A detailed discussion and examples of the 11 tips * Why diversity matters, including its impact on a company’s bottom line * Richard Graf’s K-i-E decision-making process and the impact it has on diversity * Why it’s important for companies to take into account both current circumstances and future growth when developing a company immigration policy * What to consider when developing company immigration policies based on your company’s unique circumstances and future growth * How to use immigration as a benefit and a recruiting and retention tool * Various types of settling-in services companies can offer new international hires * Offerings that your company could implement to acclimate new international hires as well as support their dependent spouses * The type of services some local immigrant organizations can provide * Examples of advancement programs that foster loyalty * The benefits of asking for input from international hires * Other proactive strategies to optimize your team and help retain team members * What you should consider for this year’s H-1B lottery registration

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law publications and courses:

  • Immigration Cheat Sheet for Recruiters
  • Immigration Options Chart
  • All About H-1Bs
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

  • Episode 9: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1
  • Episode 46: Get Ready for H-1B FY2022 Lottery

Tech Crunch: Dear Sophie columns

Dear Sophie: What’s the new minimum salary required for H-1B visa applicants?

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m thrilled to be joined by Tim Draper, a third-generation VC and the founder of Draper University, a top Silicon Valley pre-accelerator and incubator for entrepreneurs. He was an early investor in and is a big proponent of Bitcoin. And he seeded most of the nearly 40 unicorns in which he has invested.

Tim shared his thoughts on a wide range of topics, from Bitcoin to mindfulness, from how to solve global warming to universal earned income, from creating and inspiring entrepreneurs to what he looks for when investing in a startup.

“When I’m looking at a company,” he says, “I look for two things: How big can this get, so is it worth your time to do it? And what does the world look like when you’re done?”

Don’t miss my inspiring conversation with Tim. Please share this episode with aspiring entrepreneurs, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Tim’s views on the future of Bitcoin and its equalizing power * Draper University’s Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship and Hero Training programs * What it takes to create and inspire entrepreneurs * How to structure the free market to save the planet and create the most promising future for the U.S. * How remote work due to COVID-19 has impacted his work * The concept of universal earned income * What Tim looks for when investing in a company * Tim’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and how to get through the dark days

Stay tuned for my conversations with other top technology thought leaders, venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, and futurists on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on whatever your favorite platform is. We welcome your rating and review of this podcast. Thanks!

Resources: Brock Pierce and Universal Earned Income

Alcorn Immigration Law publications and courses:

  • Subscribe to the Alcorn Immigration Law Newsletter
  • Immigration Options Chart
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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This episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups is the first in a two-part series on how to plan for this year’s H-1B lottery in March given the recent changes to the process.

Whether you’re a large corporation or an early-stage startup, I recommend hiring an experienced immigration attorney to help you navigate the complex H-1B lottery and filing process. Getting legal guidance is particularly important given the vast array of new rules and procedures that have been put in place under the Trump administration, particularly in recent months, and because it remains uncertain what will change—or whether anything will change—under the Biden administration. The Alcorn team is keeping close tabs on the latest developments and will keep you posted.

The biggest change the Trump administration made prior to leaving office was replacing the random H-1B lottery with an H-1B allocation process based on the highest wages paid to H-1B candidates given the position and work location. I’m calling it the new play-to-play rule for H-1Bs. Although it will pressure employers to raise salaries, the new wage-based H-1B lottery will add substantial predictability to the process.

Make sure to tune in to part 2 of H-1B Lottery Planning. I will provide more specifics and any updates on the new H-1B pay-to-play process and what actions and documents H-1B employer sponsors and H-1B candidates should start assembling to prepare.

I am excited by the upcoming possibilities for immigration. Anything we can do to help an individual make a better life in the U.S. and follow her or his passion will be to the benefit of all of us. Please share this episode with investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Details about the new pay-to-play H-1B lottery * Why the new process will make the H-1B lottery more predictable for employers—and possibly more expensive, too * My thoughts on whether the new H-1B lottery process will remain under the Biden administration * The general requirements for an H-1B visa * How many H-1B visas are available in the annual lottery * Who will benefit the most from the new pay-to-play H-1B allocation process * How to electronically register H-1B candidates * How the lottery process has changed in the past few years * Strategies and tips for the electronic H-1B registration process, particularly for early-stage startups and recent grads on F-1 OPT or STEM OPT * H-1B dates to remember * What’s up with premium processing for H-1Bs

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law publications and courses:

  • All About H-1Bs
  • Immigration Options Chart
  • Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook
  • Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

  • Episode 9: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1
  • Episode 46: Get Ready for H-1B FY2022 Lottery

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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I’m pleased to welcome back to Immigration Law for Tech Startups my law partner, Anita Koumriqian, who is an expert in individual and family immigration law. Today we’ll discuss how to bring your parents or siblings to the U.S.

“I enjoy the family reunification green cards, especially when kids are petitioning for their parents,” says Anita. “People immigrate to the U.S., become successful, and then they are able to say to their parents, ‘Come to the U.S., let me take care of you when you retire.’ For me, that’s the dream.”

Most U.S. consulates remain closed due to COVID-19. The few consular offices that are open are only operating at 20 to 30 percent capacity. Moreover, a moratorium on green cards issued abroad remains in place until the end of the year.

Still, this should not stop you from starting the process of sponsoring your parents or siblings for a green card, particularly since it may take time to obtain the evidence and documents for your petition and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can take more than a year to adjudicate a case.

Immigration is never easy, but it’s always possible!

Please share this episode with anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Requirements and documentation needed for sponsoring a biological parent, an adoptive parent, and a stepparent * Requirements and documentation needed if you were born out of wedlock * Requirements and documentation needed for sponsoring a sibling, half-sibling, adoptive sibling and step-sibling * The U.S. Department of State reciprocity table and what it does * Some of the unique ways to document the birth of your parents or siblings when a birth certificate cannot be found * When you should consult an immigration lawyer * Instances in which USCIS may request a DNA test * The three-part process of sponsoring a parent or sibling for a green card * Processing times and expected wait times * Why it typically takes much longer for siblings to get a green card than parents * What parents that get green cards need to know about long trips to their home country

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast.

Resources: U.S. Department of State’s Reciprocity Table

Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

  • Episode 35: Becoming a U.S. Citizen: Naturalization and Citizenship
  • Episode 28: All About Priority Dates
  • Episode 22: Navigating the NVC

Alcorn Immigration Law’s services page on:

  • Family Green Cards
  • Citizenship Through Naturalization

Register for Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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Before I dive into this episode, I have exciting news to share: The Community for Global Innovation (CFGI), the nonprofit I co-founded with David Valverde Vargas has received 501(c)(3) status!

David, the founder of PRANOS.ai, and I formed CFGI last summer when the Trump administration was threatening to deport international students for taking online—rather than in-person—classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through CFGI, we sought to connect international students with innovative tech companies willing to sponsor talent for a visa or green card. Thank you to all who believe in our mission and support international students!

Now, on the eve of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris’ inauguration, I want to discuss what immigration changes we might expect for immigration under this new administration in this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups.

In a new conference a few weeks ago, Biden stated he will introduce immigration legislation “immediately” after taking office, and that his Department of Justice will investigate the Trump administration’s family separation program at the southern border. Biden, however, did not offer up any details about his immigration legislation.

In his campaign platform, Biden promised to undo Trump’s damage and reclaim American values. I am so thankful that he will overturn the inhumane and horrifying Trump policy of separating families at the border and detaining children. I include legal resources for children below.

A lot has happened during the past few weeks that will impact immigration and the Biden administration’s immigration plan:

  • Trump extended the ban on H-1B, J-1, and L-1 visas through March 31.
  • Democrats took narrow control of the U.S. Senate with the election of two Democrat Senators from Georgia.
  • The Department of Homeland Security finalized a rule that will shift from a random H-1B lottery to a new wage-based H-1B allocation system from highest to lowest relative wage.

I am excited by the upcoming possibilities for immigration. Anything we can do to help an individual make a better life in the U.S. and follow her or his passion will be to the benefit of all of us.

Please share this episode with investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us. We can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * President-elect Biden’s six-point immigration program * What the Georgia Senate wins for Democrats means for Biden’s legislative agenda for immigration * What the Biden administration is planning within the first 100 days in office * What the Biden administration’s silence on the new wage-based H-1B allocation may mean * How the Biden administration might improve the green card process * The new administration’s possible policy and legislative plans that will affect entrepreneurs and more broadly the tech industry * The Biden administration’s plans for asylum policy and plans for the 11 million individuals in the U.S. who are undocumented

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Alcorn Immigration Law publications and courses:

64 Questions to Ask Your Immigration Attorney

All About H-1Bs

Immigration Options Chart

Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course for best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Legal representation for children detained at the border:

Centro Legal de la Raza

Community Legal Services in East Palo Alto

Esperanza Immigrant Rights Project

Immigration and Deportation Defense Clinic

Legal Services for Children

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

Episode 43: What a Biden Victory Means for Immigration

Tech Crunch

“A pledge to unite international students and tech”

“Dear Sophie: What Does Biden’s Win Mean for Tech Immigration”

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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We’ve covered a lot of ground since this podcast debuted in early 2020. Many thanks to all of you for joining me on this journey to demystify the U.S. immigration process and empower you. Thanks to all of you who have shared your feedback. I really appreciate it!

Today’s episode is a follow-up to podcast episode 49. In that episode, attorney Anita Koumriqian, my law partner, and I discussed what we called the commandments of an immigration attorney for family immigration cases. In this episode, I’ll be using the same lens to view the world of business immigration.

Violating any of these commandments could negatively impact an individual’s immediate petition or entry into the U.S. or an employer’s ability to fill a position, but also could jeopardize the rest of an individual’s immigration journey or an employer’s future ability to hire international talent. Here are the five commandments for business immigration:

  • Thou shalt not do-it-yourself (DIY)
  • Thou shalt tell the truth: Do the right thing and do it with integrity
  • Thou shalt be prepared
  • Thou shalt do everything thoroughly
  • Thou shalt not make any filing mistakes

We’ve been able to successfully navigate the immigration landscape during the last four years. We are looking forward to seeing more people being able to live their dreams of living, creating, and innovating in the U.S. under the Biden administration.

Please share this episode with friends, family members, investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us. We can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The five commandments drawn from real experiences and more info and detail about what they mean * The difference between a nonimmigrant work visa and an employment-based green card * The approval rates for H-1B during the Obama and Trump administrations * Why employers should avoid the temptation to let employees from Canada apply or renew a TN at a U.S. port of entry * How employers can use immigration as a benefit to attract and retain employees * What to do if an employer’s interests are not aligned with the visa or green card candidate’s interest * The types of immigration cases that are often investigated by the government and why * Why employers should decide what their immigration policy is

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. Stay up to date with each episode by subscribing here. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Tech Crunch Dear Sophie columns

What Everyone at a Startup Needs to Know About Immigration

Path to Green Card

Immigration Options Chart

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

Episode 46: Get Ready for H-1B FY2022 Lottery

Episode 44: 7 of the Most Startup-Friendly Visas Explained

Episode 27: How to Prepare for Visa and Green Card Interview

Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens

Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3

Episode 15: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp

Register for Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I provide a very high-level overview of how the U.S. immigration system came to be and why it’s designed the way it is.

One of the basic, fundamental rights of a nation is self-determination and the ability to define its rule of government and who can participate in that nation’s system and who will be subject to the laws of that nation. Since its beginning, the United States has had a challenged history with immigration even though the founding fathers were immigrants themselves.

The U.S. immigration system is an impersonal one that’s based on many of the same values that are enshrined in our Constitution. Even though the system has its flaws and needs resources and reforms to improve the process, successfully navigating the system for anyone is doable. Everyone from individuals to founders, startups to giant companies just need to know the right questions to ask and the information to empower them to find the right immigration path.

Immigration is too often mistakenly considered a drain on society and the system. However, there’s resounding evidence of the value of immigration. Immigration is good for the U.S. on a macro level in terms of innovation, job creation, and other economic benefits, as well as on a micro-level with one person’s quality of life improving and the butterfly effect of that.

The Alcorn Immigration Law team has been able to successfully navigate the immigration landscape during the last four years. With more opportunities likely to emerge under the incoming Biden administration, we are looking forward to seeing more people live their dreams of living, creating, and innovating in the U.S.

Please share this episode with friends, family members, investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us. We can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What is the one-shotter phenomenon and what it means for the immigration process * Why countries have immigration laws * A brief history of U.S. immigration * The difference between temporary and permanent visas * Consular processing vs change of status/adjustment of status in the U.S. * The five main areas of immigration law * Visa and green card sponsors, time limits, caps, and preferences * Visa and green card categories that don’t require a sponsor, such as the EB-1A and EB-2 NIW, which are discussed in more detail in my Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course, along with the best practices for securing them * Why I view immigration law as a living framework

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. Stay up to date with each episode by subscribing here. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Immigration Options Chart for Talent, Investors, and Founders

Path to Green Card

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

Episode 43: What a Biden Victory Means for Immigration

Register for Alcorn Immigraton Law’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Subscribe to the Alcorn Immigration Law Newsletter, which delivers breaking news, upcoming webinars, and other info directly to your inbox

Get Alcorn Immigration Law’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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Before we jump into this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I am thrilled to announce that DACA is back—100% back! On Dec. 4, a federal judge ordered the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), to resume approval of new DACA applications and work permits and granting them in two-year increments.

In this podcast episode, I’m thrilled to discuss the ideal immigration system for the U.S. with Professor Bill Ong Hing, one of my heroes in the immigration law field.

Bill is a professor of law and migration studies at the University of San Francisco. He teaches a lot of really cool classes about immigration policy, rebellious lawyering, negotiation. He is also the director of the Immigration and Deportation Defense Clinic at USF, which is currently helping more than 400 asylum clients with their cases free of change. In 1979, Bill founded the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC), a national nonprofit based in San Francisco that provides legal training, technical assistance, and educational materials, and engages in advocacy and immigrant civic engagement to advance immigrant rights. He continues to volunteer at ILRC as general counsel.

While Bill is pleased by the incoming Biden administration, his outlook remains tempered as to prospects for comprehensive immigration reform in Congress. “If it had been a landslide victory for Biden, I would be more confident,” he says. Still, he remains hopeful for more positive changes ahead for U.S. immigration policy—even more than what came out of the Obama administration, such as DACA and some prosecutorial discretion moves.

Bill talks in more detail about the prospects and benefits of a startup visa—or at least the reinstatement of the International Entrepreneur Rule—shifting to a first-come, first-served green card allocation process, creating immigrant enterprise zones, reforming the asylum system, and more.

We’ve been able to successfully navigate the immigration landscape during last four years under the Trump administration, so now, even more opportunities are open under the incoming Biden administration. We are looking forward to seeing more people being able to live their dreams of living, creating, and innovating in the U.S. Please share this episode with investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us. We can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Bill’s assessment of where things stand with immigration now, and how that may change under the incoming Biden administration * Why he hopes the Biden administration will achieve more in immigration reform than President Obama * Rebellious lawyering—what it is and what it means * Why immigrants create jobs, and why a variety of job skills are needed in the U.S. * Why Bill sees the good news about DACA as tempered by a potential legal challenge by the state of Texas to work permits under DACA * Bill’s thoughts on the prospects of a startup visa or the reinstatement of the International Entrepreneur Rule * Why immigrants significantly contribute to the economy, particularly the Social Security system * The benefits of making the green card process based on first come, first served; creating immigrant enterprise zones; and things to think about when creating a fair point-based immigration system * Where things stand with asylum system in the U.S., and where should it go from here * Where Bill draws inspiration and his advice to listeners

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with other top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast here or on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: To donate to Bill’s program, the Immigration and Deportation Defense Clinic at the University of San Francisco Law School, click here and make sure to designate your donation to the Immigration and Deportation Defense Clinic.

Sophie mentioned a book that offers a positive alternative from the “drama triangle” trap of victims, persecutors, and rescuers to something more freeing and positive. Check out The Power of TED (The Empowerment Dynamic) to understand how to transform your relationships into those of creators, challengers, and coaches.

Immigration Options Chart

All About H-1Bs

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

Episode 43: What a Biden Victory Means for Immigration

Tech Crunch Dear Sophie columns

“What does Biden’s win mean for tech immigration?”

Register for Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I am thrilled to be joined once again by my fabulous law partner, Anita Koumriqian, to discuss what we’re calling the four commandments of an immigration attorney.

Violating any of these commandments may not only have a negative impact on your most immediate petition or entry into the U.S., but also could jeopardize the rest of your immigration journey. Here are our four commandments:

  • Thou shalt not lie or maketh misrepresentations
  • Thou shalt not make filing mistakes—or if thou maketh a mistake, thou shall fess up!
  • Thou shalt not leave anything unanswered
  • Thou shalt not cut corners

We discuss in more detail in this podcast what we mean with each of these commandments and provide tips on how to work with an immigration attorney and deal with immigration officers.

We’ve been able to successfully navigate the immigration landscape during last four years under the Trump administration. Now, even more opportunities are open under the incoming Biden administration. We are looking forward to seeing more people being able to live their dreams of living, creating, and innovating in the U.S.

Please share this episode with friends, family members, investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us. We can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The four top commandments from seasoned immigration attorneys who are experts in the field and examples and experiences drawn from real clients * The biggest mistakes people make * Why an immigration application is more than just filling out forms * The role of an immigration attorney * What to expect from the immigration interview process * Practical advice for dealing with immigration officials * Tips for proceeding if you insist on DIYing immigration

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. Stay up to date with each episode by subscribing here. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: Path to Green Card

Immigration Options Chart

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

Episode 13: Show the Love: Family-Based Alternatives for Technology Professionals

Episode 27: How to Prepare for Visa and Green Card Interview

Episode 35: Becoming a U.S. Citizen: Naturalization and Citizenship

Episode 43: What a Biden Victory Means for Immigration

Tech Crunch Dear Sophie columns

“What does Biden’s win mean for tech immigration?”

Register for Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more athttps://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I discuss all the amazing immigration changes on the horizon for 2021. If you had put your immigration plans on hold during the past four years to wait for the right time, the right time is here!

All of the immigration policy changes during the past four years have come through executive proclamations and orders, administrative rule changes, policy memos, and legal challenges to new policies and immigration enforcement. President-elect Joe Biden has promised to overturn most of immigration policies put into place by the previous administration within his first 100 days of office and to recognize our strength as a nation of immigrants to resolve the most pressing issues facing the U.S., including economic revitalization and job growth.

We are already seeing some of the current administration’s more restrictive immigration policies being rolled back by federal court judges as the result of legal challenges. We’ve been able to successfully navigate the immigration landscape during the last four years under the Trump administration, so now, anything is possible! Under the incoming Biden administration, we are looking forward to seeing more people being able to live their dreams in the U.S.

Please share this episode with investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us. We can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Why the immigration outlook is so rosy * How COVID-19 may impact what happens and how quickly * President-elect Biden’s immigration platform and how quickly we might see changes * How much USCIS fees may rise in the coming year * What might happen to the moratorium on the issuance of green cards to individuals outside the U.S. * What’s the difference between consular processing and adjustment of status * How Biden may increase the number of green cards available * What might happen to the moratorium on the issuance of H-1B, H-2B, J, and L visas to individuals outside the U.S. * How will the H-1B lottery could change and the pros and cons of the change * Other changes that Biden has outlined, including a startup visa, fully reinstating DACA, and offering a path to citizenship for Dreamers

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast. We appreciate your feedback!

Resources: 64 Questions to Ask Your Immigration Attorney

Immigration Options Chart

All About H-1Bs

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

Episode 43: What a Biden Victory Means for Immigration

Tech Crunch Dear Sophie columns

“Would a Trump win abolish the H-1B visa lottery?”

“Now that a judge has paused Trump’s H-1B visa ban, how can I qualify my employees?”

“How will President Trump’s order ‘suspending immigration’ affect me?”

Register for Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more athttps://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I recap the unprecedented year of changes to U.S. immigration policy.

Despite all the changes this year, no new immigration legislation was passed in 2020. In fact, Congress has failed to enact any new immigration laws for decades. All of the immigration policy changes this year have come through executive proclamations and orders, administrative rule changes, policy memos, and legal challenges to new policies and immigration enforcement.

The outgoing administration threatened to end several immigration benefits and programs that ultimately failed. And despite all the changes and proposed changes that have made immigration more challenging, a few good things came out of 2020 with respect to immigration.

Immigration is never easy, but it’s always possible! Please share this episode with investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us. We can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What immigration programs Trump threatened to eliminate this year * The good things that happened this year in immigration * Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) * The H-4 EAD program * Diversity green card * Birthright citizenship and anchor babies * What are the social changes impacting immigration within the startup ecosystem * President-elect Biden’s proposed changes to immigration * Executive orders and proclamations in 2020 * Public charge rule * Policy changes that impacted international students * The genesis of my nonprofit, Community for Global Innovation * The biggest changes to the H-1B lottery process * How you should approach the next H-1B lottery

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast.

Resources: Immigration Options Chart

All About H-1Bs

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

Episode 9: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition

Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B

Episode 39: Startup Law with Lindsey Mignano

Episode 43: What a Biden Victory Means for Immigration

Tech Crunch Dear Sophie columns

“Would a Trump win abolish the H-1B visa lottery?”

“Now that a judge has paused Trump’s H-1B visa ban, how can I qualify my employees?”

“What does the new online classes rule mean for F-1 students?”

“How will President Trump’s order ‘suspending immigration’ affect me?”

”Is unemployment considered a public benefit?”

Register for Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I discuss how the upcoming annual H-1B in March 2021 will be different from the last H-1B lottery, as well as what to expect and how to prepare.

The H-1B lottery will start on March 1, 2021, when U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) opens the electronic registration process, in which employers register each H-1B candidate for a $10 fee. The registration process remains open until March 20. USCIS will notify employers by March 31, if their H-1B candidate has been selected in the lottery. After that, employers will have 90 days to file an H-1B petition.

Immigration officials have instituted a flurry of new rules that impact the H-1B process, I recommend you proceed as usual in identifying H-1B candidates and making plans to sponsor them in the March H-1B lottery.

Immigration is never easy, but it’s always possible! Please share this episode with investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us. We can help you determine your best immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The H-1B visa’s brief history and how the H-1B lottery came to be * How many H-1B visas are available each year * The difference between a cap-subject employer and a cap-exempt employer * How the H-1B lottery process has changed over the years * What will be new in the upcoming H-1B lottery in March 2021 * The advantages and drawbacks of the changes to the H-1B process that has occurred during the last few years * The impact that the Buy American and Hire American executive order had on the H-1B process

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast.

Resources: All About H-1Bs

Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

  • Episode 9: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition

Alcorn Immigration Law’s services page on:

  • H-1B Visa for Specialty Occupations

Register for Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I explain the American holiday of Thanksgiving, which this year falls on November 26, and discuss the things in 2020 that I’m most appreciative of.

I’m appreciative of my amazing team and the work they do day in and day out. And I’m appreciative of the work my team did to help me put together “64 Questions to Ask Your Immigration Attorney,” a checklist of questions to ask when you interview immigration attorneys to start the immigration process.

I’m appreciative of all of our clients from all over the world who we’ve been able to support even through the darkness of the pandemic and the last four years and who have gone on to change companies, create businesses, and create jobs in the U.S.

I’m appreciative of you, my listeners, and the messages and reviews we receive about this podcast.

And finally, I’m appreciative of this amazing job I have that allows me to meet people from all around the world, listen to their stories, and support them in identifying the immigration strategies given their unique situation. I appreciate the clients who had challenging cases and trusted me and my team to help them navigate the immigration system to make their dream a reality in 2020.

On this Thanksgiving, I hope that there are many things in your life you are appreciative of. I’d love to hear your thoughts and am open to cover any topics that interest you. Please keep in touch and share this episode with investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it or wants to hear more about the Thanksgiving tradition in the U.S.

Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What I’m appreciative of, including the challenging cases that clients trusted our team to guide them through * “64 Questions to Ask Your Immigration Attorney” * How we helped a client quickly get a new work visa that allowed him to accept an amazing opportunity to be part of the founding team at an early stage startup * How we helped an international startup co-founder remain in the U.S. while maintaining his position in line for a green card when a prominent VC demanded that the international co-founder begin working for the startup before investing $6 million * How we helped a client with a borderline case come to the U.S. during the pandemic even while most U.S. consulates remain closed, which enabled her to reunite with her loved one

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top technology thought leaders, venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, and futurists on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. We welcome your rating and review!

Resources: 64 Questions to Ask Your Immigration Attorney

Register for Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I discuss the top seven most startup-friendly visas and green cards and what startup founders can and cannot do on each of them.

Unlike Canada, Australia, the U.K., and New Zealand, the United States does not have a startup visa. Congress attempted to create a startup visa through legislation in 2010, 2011, and 2013, but each effort failed. Shortly before leaving office, the Obama administration created the International Entrepreneur Rule through an executive order. After delaying the rule’s implementation, the Trump administration eliminated it, prompting a lawsuit from the National Venture Capital Association. In 2017, a federal district court ordered U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to implement the rule. The Trump administration filed a new proposal to end the rule in 2018, but never finalized the proposal. While not officially ended, the International Entrepreneur Rule has not been implemented.

In a report issued this year on startup visas, the National Foundation for American Policy estimated that if the U.S. had created a startup visa in 2016, it would have led to the creation of as many as 3.2 million jobs in the U.S. by 2026.

Even without a startup visa, startup founders have many ways to live and work in the U.S. The top seven options are:

  1. B-1 visa
  2. L-1A visa
  3. E-2 visa
  4. H-1B visa
  5. O-1A visa
  6. EB-1A green card
  7. EB-2 NIW green card

Please share this episode with any startup founders or entrepreneurs who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * Which visas and green cards made it to the startup-friendly list and why * The benefits and drawbacks of each visa and green card in the list * Two unique H-1B hacks * The best options for startup founders born in India or China

Don’t miss my conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders and experts, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. We appreciate your ratings and reviews.

Resources: Enroll in Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promo code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

  • Episode 3: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B
  • Episode 14: Visas & Green Cards Based on Past Accomplishments
  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
  • Episode 28: All About Priority Dates
  • Episode 30: H-1B Nitty Gritty #1: Transfers, Extensions, Amendments in Tech
  • Episode 31: H-1B Nitty Gritty #2: H-1B Transfer for Startup Founders
  • Episode 37: What is U.S. Startup Founder Immigration?

Alcorn Immigration Law’s Menu of Services page:

  • B-1 Visa for Visitors for Business
  • E-2 Visa for Treaty Investors
  • H-1B Visa for Specialty Occupations
  • L-1A Visa for Intracompany Transferee Managers and Executives
  • O-1A Visa for Extraordinary Ability
  • EB-1A Extraordinary Ability Green Card
  • EB-2 NIW (Exceptional Ability with National Interest Waiver)

National Foundation for American Policy’s policy brief, “The International Experience of Startup Visas for Immigrant Entrepreneurs”

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m thrilled to discuss the Biden administration’s plans for reforming the U.S. immigration system.

Before I dive in, I know we’ll see meaningful changes in the U.S. under President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, from the way we govern ourselves, to our relationships with other countries and people around the world, and what immigration law will look like for startups, founders, investors, inventors, highly-skilled professionals, and families.

The Biden administration will undo most of the policies that the Trump administration put into place and restore the moral imperative in the U.S to do the right thing. I will cover the six main pillars that will guide Biden’s plan to create a more fair and humane U.S. immigration system and what that means for:

  • A startup visa
  • A path to citizenship for Dreamers
  • Work visas, such as the H-1B
  • The public charge rule
  • The green card process, including the Visa Bulletin, and green card wait times, particularly for individuals born in India and China
  • The diversity green card
  • Citizenship through naturalization
  • S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
  • The Muslim bans
  • Family separation at the border
  • Asylum and refugee policies
  • Detention and deportation
  • Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

Remember, the way you can support the United States on its new path of immigration reform is to share your story, talk with reporters or write a letter to the Senator or Congressman who represents your district. You don’t need to be a citizen to write a letter to your representative. Reporters say if people don’t tell their stories, they can’t publish the articles that make change. Your story matters. The time to share your story is now.

I’m so excited about the Biden administration restoring the U.S. to its original status as a place of freedom, independence, and opportunity.

Please share this episode with investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * A brief history of U.S. immigration policy since the 1980s * The six major pillars of President Biden’s immigration reform plan * The Biden administration’s agenda for immigration reform during the first 100 days through executive orders and over the next four years through legislation * Quotas for work visas and green cards * Municipal immigration * How to effect changes to immigration policy even if you aren’t a U.S. citizen and aren’t eligible to vote or even if you’re even living in the U.S.

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. As always, we welcome your rating and review of this podcast.

Resources: Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

  • Episode 3: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B
  • Episode 28: All About Priority Dates
  • Episode 35: Becoming a U.S. Citizen: Naturalization and Citizenship
  • Episode 37: What is Startup Founder Immigration

Alcorn Immigration Law’s services page on:

  • Employment Green Cards
  • Family Green Cards
  • H-1B Visa for Specialty Occupations
  • Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
  • Diversity Green Cards
  • Citizenship Through Naturalization
  • I-9 Inspections

Alcorn Immigration Law’s blog posts:

  • “USCIS Issues Changes to DACA Program”
  • “Imagining a Great U.S. Immigration System”
  • “How Does the Visa Bulletin Work?
  • “Dear Sophie: Is unemployment considered a public benefit?”
  • “Three Things Employers Should Know About a Notice of Inspection”

Register for Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m joined by Eileen Wu, the founder of Luminarii, a creative agency that helps investors and entrepreneurs unlock the power of their authentic stories by leveraging marketing strategy, communications, and media expertise.

Eileen advises many tech startup founders on how to get the attention of investors by optimizing their startup’s story. She also provides media training and coaching to C-suite executives and venture capitalists.

“Storytelling is so important now more than ever for domestic and international entrepreneurs in light of COVID when we’re being inundated with Zoom calls and PowerPoint presentations,” she says. “Investors are investing in teams they haven’t met before. That really levels the playing field for international entrepreneurs.”

Because an entrepreneur’s first interaction with an investor these days is more likely to be through a pitch deck rather than an in-person conversation at a conference or cocktail party, spending time and energy developing your startup’s story has become even more important.

We listen to the elevator pitches of two entrepreneurs, Phil Wennker, co-founder of Mnemonic AI, and Alkis Pananakakis, co-founder of Vuel. Eileen uses these pitches to illustrate how each of them can tell a more powerful story focusing on the particulars of how their startup is uniquely positioned to tackle the problem the startup is seeking to tackle. She even offers up suggestions for how to better market their products.

“I hope that inspires entrepreneurs to think of their businesses more than just for the functional benefits they offer,” ‘she says.

Please share this episode with investors, companies, startup founders, or anyone who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What inspired Eileen to work with entrepreneurs and investors * Why telling a compelling story about yourself, your co-founders, and your startup matters * The ingredients for a refined, compelling story * The top two things investors most want to know from startup founders * What an elevator pitch and a pitch deck are * Common pitfalls for entrepreneurs devising their elevator pitch and pitch deck * Eileen’s discussion of the good and the bad of the elevator pitches from entrepreneurs Phil and Alkis, and how each can improve their respective elevator pitch, pitch deck, website, and even service/product * Why entrepreneurs should lighten up on the technical languages in their pitches * Why metaphors are powerful tools in a pitch * A case study in successful storytelling: How Airbnb differentiated itself from competitor Vrbo

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with other top technology thought leaders, venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, and futurists on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. We welcome your rating and review of this podcast.

Resources: https://mnemonic.ai/

Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

  • Episode 3: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B
  • Episode 14: Visas & Green Cards Based on Past Accomplishments
  • Episode 31: H-1B Nitty Gritty #2: H-1B Transfer for Startup Founders
  • Episode 37: What is Startup Founder Immigration

Register for Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m excited to welcome Carmen Palafox, a venture capitalist based in Los Angeles who is launching her own firm, 2045 Ventures. She is on the Board of Directors of the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) and is a founding board member of Latinx VC, a group of experienced venture capitalists who connect, engage, and foster the Latinx VC ecosystem.

Carmen offers up her invaluable advice and best practices for startup founders, including Dreamers, who are seeking investment capital.

Carmen describes herself as a “generalist investor,” which means that “I am industry agnostic,” she explains. That said, she gets most excited about startups in fintech, climate tech, ed tech, and healthcare. “And I’m not afraid of hardware,” she adds.

Most recently a partner at MiLA (Make in LA) Capital, which focuses on hardware startups, Carmen is starting 2045 Ventures based on the thesis of diversity. “Diverse teams outperform non-diverse teams,” she says. “Diverse perspectives bring more opportunity to the table. Diverse founders are able to build relevant products and services that expand to reach broader communities. Diverse perspectives and networks will capture more of the market.”

2045 Ventures will invest in pre-seed, bridge, and seed 1 stage companies. Carmen anticipates investing in about seven companies a year. “That’s not a lot,” she acknowledges.

“Fifty-eight percent of the startups I’ve invested in have immigrant founders on their founding team,” Carmen says. “I’m very passionate about immigration reform,” That’s why “it’s imperative for the U.S. to have a startup visa to remain competitive. We as a country should be trying to retain high growth startups. The multiplier effect startups have [on job creation] is 5x.”

Please share this episode with any startup founders or entrepreneurs who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How Carmen defines pre-seed, bridge, and stage 1 funding and evaluates risk. * Why venture capitalists have their own lingo when it comes to funding amounts and investment timing * What Alexandra Rasch, the founder of Caban Systems, is doing that proves Carmen’s investment thesis for her new firm * How the expanded movement for racial equality has impacted investment priorities among VCs * Whether international startup founders should remain in their home country or come to the U.S. * Why VC investment into the U.S. continues to decline * What the U.S. needs to do to support diverse founders and startups * Carmen’s advice to startup founders, including Dreamers, who are seeking funding * The best practices for founders when pitching investors

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with other top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. We appreciate your ratings and reviews of this podcast.

Resources: Enroll in Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promo code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

  • Episode 3: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B
  • Episode 14: Visas & Green Cards Based on Past Accomplishments
  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
  • Episode 31: H-1B Nitty Gritty #2: H-1B Transfer for Startup Founders

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on:

  • H-1B Visa for Specialty Occupations
  • O-1A Visa for Extraordinary Ability
  • EB-1A Extraordinary Ability Green Card
  • EB-2 NIW (Exceptional Ability with National Interest Waiver)
  • Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I discuss the immigration-related due diligence process for startups. It’s very important for international founders, international tech talent, and investors to know about devising immigration strategies for founders and top talent and ongoing compliance with immigration laws.

During the due diligence process, potential investors investigate the company they’re looking to invest in or acquire, documenting all the current and prospective risks, such as business operations, finances, intellectual property, sales, and potential litigation. If they don’t already, all angel investors, VCs, founders and key talent need to consider the immigration situation of everyone at the startup as part of due diligence.

Startups should make sure their employees have the legal ability to live and work in the location they want the work to be done, whether it’s in the United States or elsewhere. In the U.S., a startup potentially faces egregious fines and penalties for employees who are not legally allowed to work. Plus, those individuals risk being deported or spending several months or even years in a deportation trial for violating immigration laws, away from focusing on the work of growing the startup.

Please share this episode with any investors or startup founders who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The three phases of due diligence * Devising immigration strategies for international founders and top talent to ensure ongoing compliance with immigration laws—and make sure these individuals can remain in the U.S. * The immigration-related questions investors should ask during due diligence * What investors should know about the potential impact of their investment on the immigration status of an international founder or key talent * The practical and financial implications for certain visas and green cards * The benefits of establishing a company immigration policy * I-9 compliance and inspections

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. We welcome your rating and review of this podcast. Thank you!

Resources: Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

  • Episode 3: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B
  • Episode 14: Visas & Green Cards Based on Past Accomplishments
  • Episode 15: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp
  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
  • Episode 31: H-1B Nitty Gritty #2: H-1B Transfer for Startup Founders
  • Episode 37: What is Startup Founder Immigration

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on:

  • H-1B Visa for Specialty Occupations
  • O-1A Visa for Extraordinary Ability
  • Employment Green Cards
  • Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
  • OPT and STEM OPT
  • I-9 Inspections

Register for Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m thrilled to be joined by my trusted colleague and longtime friend Lindsey Mignano, founding partner of Smith Shapourian Mignano, a corporate law firm based in San Francisco that focuses on startups. We often assist each other’s startup clients with corporate structuring and immigration matters.

Today, Lindsey shares her vast expertise in establishing and structuring startups and her insights on industry trends and the best strategies for raising funds, taking on investors, and growing a startup.

Lindsey says investment activity is returning after coming to a screeching halt during the early weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic. She cited a recent study by First Republic Bank that found that 70% of investors are growing more comfortable deploying Series A or larger investments without an in-person meeting. This greater flexibility among venture capitalists also signals greater comfort with remote founders. Previously, investors would require an in-person meeting, as well as require the founding team to immigrate to the U.S. as a condition for funding. But with COVID-19 and given that working remotely has gone well since March, investors are becoming “location-agnostic,” Lindsey says.

Although investment activity has resumed, Lindsey points out that smaller pre-seed and seed funds are expected to do fewer deals this year, and larger funds are contracting slightly in this tough economy. Based on her firm’s clients, “we’ve found that those startups that can afford to bootstrap are taking the time to do that now because the practical reality is that COVID is throwing their business metrics and milestones off,” she says. “So, they’re taking time to regroup, reorganize, figure out how they can meet milestones before presenting new data to potential investors. I would say that’s wise, not only because of the COVID-19 world we’re living in, but because this is an acquirer-friendly, investor-friendly negotiating environment. It’s not a startup-friendly financing environment”

Lindsey also pointed to a memo that Sequoia Capital sent to its founders and CEOs during the early days of COVID-19 before shelter-in-place became a reality that all startup founders should use as a guide to ensure the health of their business.

Please share this episode with any startup founders or entrepreneurs who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The best practices for structuring and forming your startup—and where—to attract U.S. investors whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad * The difference between a Delaware C corp and a Delaware S corp * What a Delaware flip is * The best place to establish your startup * How long and how much it will typically cost to establish your startup in the U.S. * How pre-seed, Avocado seed, seed, and Series A funding is defined in the U.S. * Why you should specify the investment in dollars that your startup is seeking * Funding trends that have developed during the COVID-19 pandemic * The best practices for structuring a startup if a co-founder is on an H-1B visa * How salaries for founders and top executives should figure into fundraising * The difference between a safe note and a price round * The best strategies for raising capital, getting the best deals—and closing them quickly * When do investors expect a seat on the board of your startup * Rookie mistakes to avoid when working with venture capitalists and other investors * What startup founders need to know about California wage and hour laws

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with other top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. Subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or whatever your favorite platform is. Please rate and review this podcast. Thank you!

Resources: Top 5 Business & Immigration Tips for Global Founders handout

Sequoia Capital’s Black Swan memo from March 5, 2020

Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

  • Episode 3: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B
  • Episode 14: Visas & Green Cards Based on Past Accomplishments
  • Episode 15: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp
  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
  • Episode 31: H-1B Nitty Gritty #2: H-1B Transfer for Startup Founders

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on:

  • H-1B Visa for Specialty Occupations
  • O-1A Visa for Extraordinary Ability
  • EB-1A Extraordinary Ability Green Card
  • EB-2 NIW (Exceptional Ability with National Interest Waiver)

Register for Alcorn’s Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp to learn the best practices for securing the O-1A visa, EB-1A green card, or the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card—the top options for startup founders. Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I proudly unveil the details of Alcorn Immigration Law’s new Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp, an online course.

In my previous “Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp” podcast episode, I discussed the O-1A nonimmigrant visa for extraordinary ability, the EB-1A extraordinary ability green card, and the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver for exceptional ability) green card.

The O-1A, EB-1A, and EB-2 NIW are great for startup founders and entrepreneurs, tech and biotech talent, researchers and scientists, business professionals and educators, and of course, the companies who sponsor these individuals. What’s more, the EB-1A and EB-2 NIW green cards don’t require a company sponsor, which means individuals can file their own petition for these green cards.

The Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp will take a deep dive into these visa and green card categories—and what it takes to file a successful petition in one of these categories. A 15-module online course, the Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp consists of videos and supplemental material designed to give you the tools to assess whether you currently qualify for any of these extraordinary ability categories—or what you need to do to get there—as well as best practices. This course is the culmination of synthesizing the Alcorn team’s decades of experience in immigration law, the lessons learned from the thousands of successful O-1A, EB-1A, and EB-2 NIW cases, and our interactions with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officers.

Register now for the Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp! Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

The Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp is designed to give everyone in the world a chance to live their dreams. Please share this episode with anyone you think will benefit from it. Please reach out to us if we can help you live your dreams.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp in more detail and what you can expect to get from it * Who would benefit from the Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp course * The basics of the O-1A extraordinary ability nonimmigrant (temporary) visa, the EB-1A extraordinary ability green card, and the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver for exceptional ability) * How we decide whether the O-1A, the EB-1A or the EB-2 NIW * Examples of the topics that will be covered during the boot camp course * How the bootcamp can help you * How much goes into making the legal argument for immigration cases

Tune in this fall, when a star-studded list of Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders will join me on Immigration Law for Tech Startups to share their stories and offer their expertise. In the meantime, upcoming podcast topics include citizenship and naturalization and tips for speeding up your immigration case.

Remember to subscribe to Immigration Law for Tech Startups on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or your preferred platform so you don’t miss an episode. Please let us know what you think of the podcast. Your reviews are greatly appreciated.

Resources: Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

  • Episode 14: Visas & Green Cards Based on Past Accomplishments
  • Episode 15: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on:

  • O-1A, EB1-A, & EB-2 NIW: Visas & Green Cards Based on Past Accomplishment
  • O-1A Visa for Extraordinary Ability
  • EB-1A Extraordinary Ability Green Card
  • EB-2 NIW (Exceptional Ability with National Interest Waiver)

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I share some of the immigration strategies that we have used to help startup founders successfully come to or remain in the U.S. to create or grow their startups. Unlike other countries looking to spur innovation and job creation within their borders, the United States does not have a startup visa. So, startup founders must work within the existing immigration framework and find a visa or green card that best fits their situation and goals.

Most of the startup founder clients we work with are in the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa, such as B-1/B-2 visitors for business or pleasure, F-1 for students, J-1 for researchers, L-1, TN, H-1B, or O-1. Many of those individuals on an H-1B were born in China or India and are facing long waits for green cards due to annual numerical and per-country caps, but are itching to start their own companies.

Whether inside or outside the U.S., startup founders can self-petition for an EB-1A extraordinary ability green card or EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) exceptional ability green card. I’ll delve deep into how to qualify and succeed in getting one of these green cards or the O-1 exceptional ability visa during my Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp. Register to receive updates! Use promotion code ILTS for 20% off the enrollment fee.

Although the current realities with the halt to issuing some visas and most green cards to individuals outside the U.S. and travel restrictions are discouraging, immigration is still possible. Please share this episode with any startup founders or entrepreneurs who can benefit from it. Reach out to us if we can help you determine your immigration options whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * The visas and green cards offering the best options for startup founders * Doing a cost-benefit analysis when evaluating visa and green card options * Options for startup founders in the U.S. on ESTA or a B-1 visitor visa for business * The prospects for startup founders to come to the U.S. on a B-1 visitor visa * Options for startup founders who qualify for an E-2 treaty investor visa * Why the H-1B has become a more affordable and less risky option for startup founders—and remains available to startup founders abroad * Why the O-1 may be easier for startup founders to get than an H-1B * Strategies for F-1 student on OPT or STEM OPT to start a company * Why startup founders outside the U.S. should pursue an EB-1A or EB-2 NIW green card now even though the issuance of green cards abroad remains at a standstill

Don’t miss my upcoming conversations with top Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders on Immigration Law for Tech Startups. These Silicon Valley experts will share their stories and offer their insights.

Remember to subscribe to Immigration Law for Tech Startups on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or your preferred platform so you don’t miss an episode. Please let us know what you think of the podcast. Your reviews are greatly appreciated!

Resources: Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

  • Episode 2: 2020 H-1B Lottery Update
  • Episode 3: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas
  • Episode 9: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition
  • Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B
  • Episode 14: Visas & Green Cards Based on Past Accomplishments
  • Episode 15: Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp
  • Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees
  • Episode 24: Trump Executive Order H-1B L-1 J-1 Visa Ban
  • Episode 30: H-1B Nitty Gritty #1: H-1B Transfer for Startup Founders
  • Episode 31: H-1B Nitty Gritty #2: H-1B Transfer for Startup Founders

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on:

  • B-1 Business Visitor Visa
  • E-2 Visa for Treaty Investors
  • H-1B Visa for Specialty Occupations
  • O-1A Visa for Extraordinary Ability
  • EB-1A Extraordinary Ability Green Card
  • EB-2 NIW (Exceptional Ability with National Interest Waiver)

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I discuss seven options you can potentially use to speed up a decision on your case.

Not all of the seven options I discuss in this episode may apply to your case. Many of these options only apply to individuals currently residing in the U.S. since consular processing remains stalled in many countries due to presidential proclamations, COVID-19, and travel restrictions. I recommend discussing these options with your immigration lawyer if you need a quick decision on your immigration matter.

Keep in mind that talking directly with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer to explain your situation and why you need to get a decision on your case can make a huge difference. Oftentimes people forget that USCIS officers are just like us: compassionate and understanding individuals who have children and families that they care about. We have found that if you need to get your case expedited, USCIS officials are open to discussing your situation and taking that into consideration.

The seven ways to expedite your case are:

  1. Applying for premium processing
  2. Filing an expedite request
  3. Setting up an interview with a USCIS official at your local USCIS field office
  4. Submitting a service request to USCIS
  5. Requesting a congressional inquiry
  6. Registering a request for case assistance from the USCIS ombudsman
  7. Filing a Writ of Mandamus in federal court

I discuss each option in more detail, including when and how to pursue each option, and what to expect. Please reach out to the Alcorn Immigration Law team if we can assist you with your case.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • How to check USCIS processing times for cases like yours
  • How to get a status update on your case from USCIS
  • What is premium processing, when you can use it, and what you should be aware of if you do use it
  • What is an expedite request, how to qualify, how to start one, and what to expect
  • How to make an appointment to meet with a USCIS officer to discuss your situation, how to make your case, and what to expect
  • What is a service request, how to file one, and what to expect
  • What is a congressional inquiry, how to start one, and what to expect
  • What is a request for case assistance, how to file one, and what to expect
  • What is a Writ of Mandamus, when to file one, and what to expect

Starting this month, a star-studded list of Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders will join me on Immigration Law for Tech Startups to share their stories and expertise.

Don’t miss out on these exciting episodes. Subscribe to Immigration Law for Tech Startups on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or your preferred platform. And please let us know what you think of the podcast. We appreciate your ratings and reviews. Please remember to share this episode with anyone you think can benefit from it.

Resources:

USCIS pages on:

  • Case Processing Times
  • Tools and Resources page, which includes creating a USCIS online account and checking the status of your case online
  • Filing an electronic request for case status or service
  • USCIS Contact Center
  • Premium Processing
  • How to Make an Expedite Request

List of U.S. Senators and finding your U.S. Representative

U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on Writ of Mandamus

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m joined by my law partner, Anita Koumriqian, an expert in family immigration law. In this first of two episodes on U.S. citizenship, we’ll discuss citizenship through the naturalization process for adults 18 years or older. Next time, we’ll discuss certificates of citizenship and the automatic acquisition of citizenship for children under the age of 18.

Before we get into the highlights of this episode, we’re pleased to share some great news: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced on Aug. 25, 2020, that it canceled plans to furlough more than 13,000 employees on Aug. 31, 2020, averting a massive slowdown of visa, green card, and citizenship processing.

What’s more, USCIS has resumed naturalization interviews (our team just handled several remotely for clients across the country) and naturalization ceremonies. In fact, the USCIS San Jose field office has held a naturalization ceremony in its parking lot, with individuals taking the Oath of Allegiance from their cars. Green card interviews are also expected to restart soon.

The resumption of green card interviews is particularly good news for individuals who want to earn all the benefits and responsibilities that come with U.S. citizenship. That’s because you must have a green card for at least five years—or three years if married to a U.S. citizen—before you’re eligible to submit a naturalization application. Additional residency and physical presence requirements also apply, which we discuss in detail in this episode.

During election years, USCIS typically steps up processing for naturalization applications. However, the backlog of naturalization applications has skyrocketed in the past four years, which has meant processing times are about double what they were previously. Unfortunately, COVID-19-related measures have also contributed to slowing down the process.

Please reach out to the Alcorn Immigration Law team if we can assist you with the naturalization process or any other immigration matter.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • What to consider before taking the steps to become a U.S. citizen, including dual citizenship, responsibilities of citizenship, and timing
  • All the requirements for becoming a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process
  • What to expect from the naturalization application process, including typical USCIS processing times
  • What to expect at your citizenship interview
  • Sample questions that are on the English and civics tests given at citizenship interviews
  • What to expect when taking the Oath of Allegience at a naturalization ceremony
  • When you can apply for a U.S. passport

Don’t miss the next episode on certificates of citizenship by subscribing to Immigration Law for Tech Startups on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or your preferred platform. Let us know what you think of the podcast; your ratings and reviews are greatly appreciated. And please share this episode with anyone you know who may be contemplating U.S. citizenship.

Tune in this fall, when a star-studded list of Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders will join me on Immigration Law for Tech Startups to share their stories and offer their expertise.

Resources:

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on:

  • Citizenship Through Naturalization
  • Employment Green Cards
  • Family Green Cards

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I’m joined by Amenah Keshari, an associate attorney at Alcorn Immigration Law. We discuss the two-year home residency requirement that applies to some J-1 Educational and Cultural Exchange Visa holders, as well as who qualifies for a waiver to this requirement and how to apply.

As I discussed in the previous episode All About the J-1 Exchange Visa, the J-1 visa is intended for people from around the globe to work or study temporarily in the U.S. and then take their newly acquired knowledge, skills, and appreciation of American culture back to their home country. However, some of these individuals are subject to Section 212(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which requires some J-1 visa holders to return to their home country for at least two years after their J-1 program ends. Moreover, these individuals cannot change to an H-1B or any other H visas, a K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa or L-1 visas for intracompany transferees while in the U.S. or apply for any of these visas from their home country.

Typically, the J-1 program sponsor and the consulate officer who conducts the J-1 interview informs J-1 program participants they will be subject to the two-year home country residency requirement. The J-1 visa passport foil also shows whether or not you are subject to 212(e). Some participants may qualify for a waiver to this two-year residency requirement and remain in the U.S.

Applying for a 212(e) waiver may appear straightforward. Oftentimes, however, determining the best legal argument for the waiver is anything but. We recommend consulting an experienced immigration attorney to discuss the best approach to filing a waiver and your long-term immigration goals.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • An overview of the two-year foreign residence requirement that applies to some J-1 visa holders once their exchange program ends.
  • Which J-1 visa holders and subject to the two-year foreign residence requirement.
  • The five categories of waivers to the two-year foreign residence requirement and examples.
  • What to expect when applying for a waiver, including processing time.
  • Best practices for applying for a waiver.
  • The visas you may be eligible to apply for from your home country even if you are subject to the two-year foreign residence requirement.
  • Strategies for meeting the two-year foreign residence requirement while continuing to work or study in the U.S.

This fall, a star-studded list of Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders will join me on Immigration Law for Tech Startups to share their immigration experiences and success stories. In the meantime, upcoming podcast topics include citizenship and naturalization and tips for speeding up your immigration case.

Remember to subscribe to Immigration Law for Tech Startups on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or your preferred platform. And please let us know what you think of the podcast; your reviews are greatly appreciated. Please share this episode with anyone you think can benefit from it.

Resources:

Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

  • Episode 33: All About the J-1 Exchange Visa
  • Episode 24: Trump Executive Order - H-1B, L-1, J-1 Visa Ban
  • Episode 12: The Visa Options All Recruiters Should Know
  • Episode 3: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on

  • J-1 Educational and Cultural Exchange Visa
  • J-1 Waiver of 2-Year Foreign Residency Requirement
  • H-1B Visa for Specialty Occupations
  • Other H visas
  • K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa
  • L-1 visas for intracompany transferees

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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I’m excited to announce that over the next few months, a star-studded list of Silicon Valley venture capitalists, startup founders, professors, futurists, and thought leaders will join me on Immigration Law for Tech Startups to share their immigration experiences and expertise. Make sure you don’t miss an episode by subscribing to Immigration Law for Tech Startups wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups, I discuss the J-1 Educational and Cultural Exchange Visa. The J-1 visa is intended for people from around the globe to work or study temporarily in the U.S. and then take their newly acquired knowledge, skills, and appreciation of American culture back to their home country.

When their visa expires, some J-1 visa holders must return to their home country for at least two years. In the next episode (Episode 34) of this podcast, I’ll discuss who qualifies and how to file a waiver to this two-year residency requirement to remain in the U.S.

Silicon Valley employers often use the J-1 visa to hire researchers, trainees, and interns, which can be done at any time of the year without worrying about quotas or lotteries. One of the biggest benefits of the J-1 visa for its holders is that their spouse can get a work permit, which is rare among nonimmigrant visas. To find out more, take a listen.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * How the J-1 visitor exchange program works. * An overview of the J-1 visitor exchange program categories and the maximum stay allowed by some of the programs. * The benefits and drawbacks of the J-1 visa. * How best to evaluate whether a J-1 visa fits into your immigration strategy and how best to use it to meet your goals. * The role the U.S. Department of State plays in J-1 visitor exchange program. * Applying from your home country outside the U.S. versus applying while living in the U.S. * The requirements for employers, program sponsors, and J-1 visa program participants. * When it makes sense for companies to become a State Department-designated J-1 program sponsors or simply go through an existing program sponsor to hire a J-1 candidate. * Which J-1 program category participants are still eligible J-1 visas under the Trump H-1B, J, and L-1 visa ban.

Don’t miss the next episode on how to get a waiver for the J-1 two-year residency requirement or my upcoming interviews with the best and brightest minds in Silicon Valley. Remember to subscribe to Immigration Law for Tech Startups on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or your preferred platform for podcasts. Your reviews are greatly appreciated.

Please share this episode with anyone you think can benefit from it. We appreciate you spreading this knowledge and assisting us with empowering individuals to live their dreams.

Resources: Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

  • Episode 24: Trump Executive Order - H-1B, L-1, J-1 Visa Ban
  • Episode 12: The Visa Options All Recruiters Should Know
  • Episode 3: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on

  • J-1 Educational and Cultural Exchange Visa
  • J-1 Waiver of 2-Year Foreign Residency Requirement

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode, I discuss what tech companies should know about sponsoring an employee or prospective employee for an EB-1B green card for outstanding professors and researchers.

The EB-1B green card is used less frequently in the startup world than other employment-based green cards, but it offers a great opportunity for agtech, biotech, and pharma companies to attract researchers from academia or elsewhere or retain them.

EB-1 green cards—or employment-based first preference green cards—offer much shorter wait times than the EB-2 or EB-3 green card for individuals from China and India. More EB-1A, EB-1B, EB-1C green cards become available toward the end of the fiscal year on Sept. 30, since any unused employment-based green cards in other categories roll over to the EB-1 category.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • The benefits of the EB-1B green card for tech employers and employees
  • Why employers should use immigration as an employee benefit
  • Requirements for employers looking to sponsor an individual for an EB-1B green card
  • What it takes to present a strong petition for an EB-1B green card
  • Factors to consider when deciding whether to use consular processing, adjustment of status, sequential or concurrent filing
  • What to expect in terms of processing times

Please share this podcast episode with anyone you think can benefit from it. We appreciate you spreading this knowledge and helping to empower individuals to live their dreams.

Resources:

Immigration Law for Tech Startups

  • Episode 4: An Overview of the Green Card Process
  • Episode 28: All About Priority Dates

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on employment-based green cards

Alcorn Immigration Law’s blog post on “How Does the Visa Bulletin Work?”

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode, I tackle the question we most frequently get asked: How do I transfer my H-1B with my current employer to the startup I want to create?

I love supporting startup founders because it magnifies the world of possibilities. When startup founders create technologies that save lives or change businesses, their positive effects spiral upward and outward. As a founder myself, I’m passionate about helping other founders devise an immigration strategy that allows them to create the companies they dream of starting without jeopardizing their H-1B status or chances of getting a green card.

Once your startup has laid the groundwork for transferring your H-1B to your startup, you could be just months away from focusing full time on making your dream a reality.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Issues to consider before, during, and after pursuing the H-1B transfer process
  • What does and doesn’t qualify as authorized work the H-1B with your current employer
  • What you can and cannot do at your startup until your H-1B transfer to your startup is approved
  • What issues you will need to discuss with your co-founders, your executives, your corporate attorney, and prospective investors
  • How to structure your startup and your position within your startup to maximize the chances that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will approve your H-1B transfer
  • How long the H-1B transfer process typically takes

Resources:

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on the H-1B Visa for Specialty Occupations

Immigration Law for Tech Startups episodes on H-1B:

Episode 12: The Visa Options All Recruiters Should Know

Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B

Episode 9: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition

Episode 2: 2020 H-1B Lottery Update

Episode 25: RFE’d Now What?

Episode 30: H-1B Nitty Gritty [ADD LINK WHEN POSTED]

Green cards that don’t require an employer sponsor:

  • EB-1A
  • EB-2 NIW

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode, I discuss the nitty-gritty details of transferring an H-1B visa from one employer to another, as well as extending an H-1B and filing an amendment to an H-1B.

The current moratorium on the issuance of new H-1B visas to most individuals outside of the U.S. has no impact on H-1B transfers, extensions, or amendments. Even if an individual is outside of the United States, if that individual has a valid H-1B visa, an employer could transfer and extend that individual’s H-1B under certain conditions.

Eventually, consular processing for visas and green cards will resume. And the current moratoriums on not only H-1B visas but also J-1 and L-1 visas and green cards for individuals residing outside of the U.S. could end next year, depending on the results of this fall’s presidential election.

In the meantime, keep in mind that the changes brought about by the coronavirus pandemic and the shifting immigration policy under the current administration open up new opportunities for startups, small businesses, and recruiters to secure top foreign talent.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • What employers and recruiters should know about recruiting top talent away from another employer through the H-1B transfer process
  • Conditions under which an employer can hire an individual who is currently outside the U.S., but whose H-1B visa from a previous employer remains valid
  • The difference between cap-subject and cap-exempt H-1Bs
  • Concurrent H-1Bs
  • Best practices for transferring an H-1B
  • Options for extending an employee’s H-1B
  • What changes or situations may require employers to file an H-1B amendment on behalf of their H-1B employee

Resources:

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on the H-1B Visa for Specialty Occupations

Immigration Law for Tech Startups:

Episode 12: The Visa Options All Recruiters Should Know

Episode 11: Your Startup’s First H-1B

Episode 9: What Makes a Strong H-1B Petition

Episode 2: 2020 H-1B Lottery Update

Episode 25: RFE’d Now What?

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode on sponsoring employees or prospective employees for PERM green cards, I’m joined by Alcorn Immigration Law associate attorney Amenah Keshari, who focuses on business immigration law.

But before we get into the ins and outs of PERM, we’re happy to share the latest news that the Trump administration has backed down from placing restrictions on international students taking online classes thanks to lawsuits filed by Harvard and MIT, states, and other universities. We are also excited to announce that Alcorn Immigration Law and Pranos.ai have joined forces to launch Community for Global Innovation, a nonprofit initiative where tech companies can make a pledge to support diversity hiring regardless of country of birth or citizenship and students can get involved.

Now, for the ins and outs of PERM, which is required of the most common employment-based green cards. Employers who want to sponsor an employee or prospective employee for any of the following green cards must get a PERM labor certification approved by the U.S. Department of Labor before filing a green card petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services:

  • EB-2 green card for individuals with an advanced degree
  • EB-2 green card for individuals with exceptional ability
  • EB-3 green card for skilled workers, professionals, and other workers

The PERM Labor Certification is a time-intensive process aimed at protecting opportunities, wages, and working conditions of U.S. workers. Because PERM will determine whether you can move forward with pursuing an EB-2 or EB-3 green card for your employee or prospective employee, we recommend working with an experienced immigration lawyer.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • What is PERM labor certification and why it’s called PERM
  • Find out how long the PERM process typically takes
  • Deadlines and timing issues
  • Steps required for PERM
  • How to strategically prepare for the PERM process
  • Best practices, particularly for startups
  • Why you should work with an experienced immigration attorney
  • What you can do if PERM is denied
  • What to do after PERM is approved
  • How to increase an employee or prospective employee’s chances of getting PERM and a green card
  • Under what circumstances a new PERM would need to be filed for an employee

Resources mentioned:

Immigration Law for Tech Startups Episode 4: An Overview of the Green Card Process

Alcorn Immigration Law’s page on employment-based green cards

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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Alcorn Immigration Law partner Anita Koumriqian joins me for this episode on green card priority dates.

The government caps not only the number of green cards issued each year, but also the number of green cards allotted to countries of origin—except for green cards for a U.S. citizen’s spouse, parents, and unmarried children under 21. Due to these numerical and per-country caps, the demand in some green card categories from individuals born in some countries far exceeds the annual supply.

For green card categories and countries of birth that are backlogged, your priority date determines your place in line for a green card. The monthly Visa Bulletin shows which green card categories and countries of birth are currently available, which priority dates have reached the front of the line, and which priority dates must still wait in line.

We discuss how all of this works in more detail and share strategies that could allow you to shorten your wait time for a green card.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What determines your priority date * How to read the monthly Visa Bulletin * Why the wait times for some green cards is decades-long * What happens when you change jobs while waiting for an employer-sponsored green card * The fastest family-based green card categories * The fastest employment-based green card categories for individuals born in China and India * Ways to speed up the green card process * What to do given that embassies and consulates remain closed due to COVID-19 and the executive proclamation that suspended the issuance of green cards abroad

Resources mentioned: How Does the Visa Bulletin Work?

https://www.alcorn.law/immigration/how-does-the-visa-bulletin-work/

Family-based green cards

https://www.alcorn.law/what-we-do/family-green-cards/

Employment-based green cards

https://www.alcorn.law/what-we-do/employment-based-visas/

Diversity green card

https://www.alcorn.law/diversity-visa/

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

https://witty-author-184.ck.page/56ccd401fc

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode, I’m joined by Alcorn Immigration Law associate attorney Cori Farooqi, who often accompanies our clients to their interviews at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offices.

Anyone applying for a visa or green card at a U.S. embassy or consulate or anyone applying for a green card or for citizenship from within the U.S. at a USCIS office must be interviewed by a government official.

The Trump administration has halted the issuance of all green cards, H-1B, J-1, and L-1 visas at all embassies and consulates at least through the end of 2020. Embassies and consulates have closed since March to all routine visa applications due to COVID-19, and the timetable for reopening will be made by each embassy and consulate based on its situation and layout.

USCIS reopened its offices in early June, but some offices have since closed or changed hours. The most up-to-date list of closed offices is here. The office closures due to the COVID-19 crisis and the agency’s current budget woes mean interviews are severely backlogged. Currently, USCIS offices are prioritizing citizenship interviews.

It’s still possible to get visas and green cards. Reach out to the Alcorn Immigration Law team if we can help.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • How interviews are scheduled at a consular or USCIS office
  • When you can bring an immigration attorney with you
  • What to bring to the interview
  • What to expect at an interview at a U.S. embassy, consulate or USCIS office
  • What type of questions you’ll be asked
  • How long a typical interview lasts
  • The best way to prepare for an interview
  • Changes due to COVID-19
  • When you will find out whether your petition has been approved or denied

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Law’s pages on green cards:

  • Family-based green cards
  • Employment-based green cards
  • Diversity green cards
  • Citizenship through naturalization

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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This episode of Immigration Law for Tech Startups was recorded before the Trump administration’s July 6, 2020 directive that requires international students on F-1 and M-1 visas to take at least one in-person class in the fall or lose their visa status and be forced to leave the U.S.

As of this writing, the administration has yet to finalize this directive that prevents international students from entering the U.S. or remaining in the U.S. while taking a full online course load even as the COVID-19 crisis continues. In the spring, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which oversees the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), allowed international students to take a full online course load through the summer semester due to COVID-19 without facing deportation. The new directive requires colleges and universities to inform ICE about the educational format they plan to offer in the fall.

Meanwhile, Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology sued the administration in federal court on July 8, 2020, asking the court to prevent the administration from enforcing the new directive and declare it unlawful. In addition, the University of California has also announced its intent to file a lawsuit against the federal government for violating the rights of the university and its students. In addition, many top universities, including Brown, Columbia, New York University, Stanford, and University of Pennsylvania, promised to protect international students.

International students are critical to U.S. colleges and universities and the U.S. economy more broadly. International students often pay full tuition at U.S. colleges and universities many of which are facing declining enrollment and state funding cuts. International students make up more than than 20 percent of the student body at many top U.S. universities. They contributed $41 billion to the U.S. economy and supported or created 458,000 jobs during the 2018-2019 academic year, according to NAFSA.

In this episode, we discuss what you should know about the F-1 student visa and obtaining a work permit for Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), and STEM OPT.

In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What to expect with the F-1 student visa application process * What to expect when you enter the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa, such as the F-1, and what that means * The benefits and limitations of the F-1 visa * The requirements for CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT * How your startup can sponsor you for OPT or STEM OPT * How most tech employers work with OPT and STEM OPT students

Resources: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s original announcement about online classes

https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/sevp-modifies-temporary-exemptions-nonimmigrant-students-taking-online-courses-during

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s subsequent message on the new directive

https://www.ice.gov/doclib/sevis/pdf/bcm2007-01.pdf

Harvard and MIT lawsuit

https://www.harvard.edu/sites/default/files/content/sevp_filing.pdf

UC announcement about its forthcoming lawsuit

https://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/press-room/uc-poised-sue-federal-government-over-new-visa-policy-international-students

NAFSA’s report, Losing Talent 2020: An Economic and Foreign Policy Risk America Can’t Ignore, March 2020

https://www.nafsa.org/sites/default/files/media/document/nafsa-losing-talent.pdf

Alcorn Immigration Law’s information page on F-1 Visas

https://www.alcorn.law/f-1-visa-students/

Alcorn Immigration Law’s information page on OPT

https://www.alcorn.law/opt-optional-practical-training/

Alcorn Immigration Law’s information page on STEM OPT

https://www.alcorn.law/stem-opt-extension/

Get Alcorn’s Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

https://witty-author-184.ck.page/56ccd401fc

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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Joining me today is Alcorn Immigration Law Business Associate Attorney, Gilberto Orozco Jr., as we talk about best practices for responding to RFEs, especially in the H-1B context.

A Request for Evidence is a written notice from USCIS asking for additional documentation to make a decision on an individual’s case. RFEs have become more frequent under the current administration but it doesn’t mean that your case will be denied. Responding to an RFE gives you another chance to strengthen your case to receive an approval from USCIS.

What does it mean for your petition or application if you receive an RFE?

If you’re an employer and your company is sponsoring an employee, what does it mean when receiving an RFE?

How long do you have to respond to an RFE?

Today, we discuss the top reasons for receiving RFEs and the best strategies to avoid them.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • What are RFEs, NOIDs and RFIEs?
  • RFEs for H-1Bs
  • Top reasons USCIS issues RFEs
  • Strategies to avoid RFEs

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

https://www.alcorn.law/

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

https://witty-author-184.ck.page/56ccd401fc

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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What is the effect of the latest executive order banning H, L, and J visas?

People around the world have been reaching out in confusion and with concern about the H-1B visa ban and what it means. Who is affected? Are there exceptions? How long will it last? What's next for the administration regarding business working visas and green cards for professionals?

Today, we discuss what the executive order is about, both at a high level and in detail.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • What are the primary visa types that are affected for people who want to live in Silicon Valley
  • Strategies to travel in 2020
  • What HR managers and CEOs need to know about the executive order
  • How long the ban will last
  • What is next on the chopping block for the administration
  • How to be strategic to preserve immigration options now

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

https://www.alcorn.law/

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

https://witty-author-184.ck.page/56ccd401fc

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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Dreamers are part of America. They are a part of the core fabric of Silicon Valley.

There are so many brilliant individuals and outstanding team members who are Dreamers in various tech companies. There are those who work at large technology companies like Google or Apple. Others have aerospace degrees who are building rockets.

But what does the future hold for them with the new ruling of the Supreme Court on the DACA case?

What does it mean if you are a Dreamer working in Silicon Valley?

If you’re an employer and you have employees who have DACA, how does this affect the immigration benefits you're offering your employees for green card sponsorship?

Today, we discuss what the DACA decision is about at the legal level, the rule of law and separation of powers, as well as how the U.S. constitution is stronger than a tweet.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • How Apple CEO Tim Cook got involved in the DACA case
  • The Supreme Court’s DACA ruling explained
  • What this means for immigration now and other options for Dreamers
  • What HR people and tech companies can do to support the Dreamers
  • H-1Bs and other nonimmigrant working visas are not canceled

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

https://www.alcorn.law/

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

https://witty-author-184.ck.page/56ccd401fc

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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Joining me today is Alcorn Immigration Law partner, Anita Koumriqian, as we talk about the NVC process for immigrants getting green cards.

The consular NVC process is an intermediary step after getting the I-140 petition, which is the foundational document that allows somebody to get their green card.

If you live in another country, you have to get your green card in the form of an immigrant visa at the consulate that will then permit you to come and live here in the U.S.

Now, if you're currently in the United States on a nonimmigrant status looking to get a green card, you have the choice to either apply for an adjustment of status or go through this consular NVC process.

Whether you’re in the middle of the I-140 process, or you’re considering getting a green card at some point, find out more about this option so you can make an informed decision.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Adjustment of status process vs. consular NVC process
  • Types of cases that go through the NVC
  • How the NVC process works
  • NVC vs NBC
  • Things to consider (NVC locations, abandonment, interview, required documents)
  • Possible reasons for denial

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

https://www.alcorn.law/

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

https://witty-author-184.ck.page/56ccd401fc

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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Are you a founder looking to move to the U.S. so you can run your startup from here?

Is your company looking to transfer international employees to an existing branch office, subsidiary, or affiliate in the United States – or to let them come here to establish one?

Or are you a startup founder in the U.S. looking to sponsor foreign executives, managers, or people with specialized knowledge to live and work in the United States?

In today’s episode, we talk about how to move people around the world using different U.S. immigration options.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Overview of the L-1A and L-1B nonimmigrant visas
  • Overview of the green card pathways
  • Company requirements for L-1A, L-1B, and EB-1C
  • What visa to apply for when you’re opening a new office in the U.S.
  • Variations for L-1B visa

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

https://www.alcorn.law/

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

https://witty-author-184.ck.page/56ccd401fc

Dear Sophie on TechCrunch

https://techcrunch.com/2020/05/19/dear-sophie-what-is-required-of-employers-laying-off-foreign-workers/

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode, I’m specifically covering the TN visa, which is a special immigration status for professionals from Canada and Mexico who wish to come to the U.S. to live and work here legally.

There are some really wonderful things about the TN visa. But it has its own quirks and intricacies as well. So it’s important that you understand the process before you decide to commit.

I’m also diving deep into the other visa options available to Canadian and Mexican citizens if the TN visa is not appropriate for you.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • TN visa overview: the NAFTA treaty, visa qualifications, requirements, and benefits
  • TN visa vs. H-1B visa
  • Types of jobs that qualify you for a TN visa
  • Other visa options for Canadian and Mexican citizens and which option should you apply for

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

https://www.alcorn.law/

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

https://witty-author-184.ck.page/56ccd401fc

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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The United States has one of the larger expat communities of Australians in the world. Part of the reason is that it’s relatively easy for Australians to obtain an E-3 visa.

Just because Australia has this really cool E-3 visa, doesn't mean that if you're Australian, you're stuck using an E-3 visa only.

There are still other options available to you.

In today’s episode, I’m going to focus on the E-3 visa and other types of visas that Australian individuals might leverage as well.

This episode is for you if you’re…

  • an Australian or in love with an Australian or want to become an Australian citizen and planning on moving to the United States.

  • a recruiter or someone in human resources looking for highly skilled professionals (There's a ton of amazing universities and wonderful talents in Australia!).

  • an Australian entrepreneur looking to invest in a company in the U.S.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • The E-3 visa overview (benefits, criteria, and renewal)
  • What makes an E-3 visa inappropriate for you
  • Other ways to get a visa as an Australian entrepreneur
  • Similarities and differences between an E-3 visa and an H-1B visa

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm: https://www.alcorn.law/

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook: https://witty-author-184.ck.page/56ccd401fc

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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If you're the spouse or a child of somebody who's coming to live and work here in Silicon Valley, what's the process for you to get your visa? Can you get a work permit? How does the process work? How long does it take? What can you do? What can't you do?

Today, I'm talking about dependent ridealongs for all types of nonimmigrant visas.

Moving across continents and countries can be very demanding on our personal relationships. It’s not just about coming here to create a startup and strike it rich – you also want to foster positive relationships that support you so you can have a solid foundation to build your success upon.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • An overview of the dependent visas and work permits
  • The public charge rule
  • Changes and updates of visa application during the COVID-19 pandemic
  • What spouses are allowed to do in the U.S.
  • Cross changeability in green card cases

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm https://www.alcorn.law/

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook. https://witty-author-184.ck.page/56ccd401fc

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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If you're getting to the point of laying off people, immigration is only one narrow sliver of all the compliance actions you need to take.

In today’s episode of another COVID-19 edition, I’m talking about how to conduct layoffs in the immigration world. What happens when your company can no longer employ all of the people you’ve sponsored? How much flexibility do you have? What are your obligations?

With anything, it's not so much about what you do – but how you do it.

This is an opportunity for you, as a leader, to treat your team members with respect and consideration while complying with all the obligations and legal requirements involved.

We're here as a channel for communication to really cut through the politics and get to the bottom of what’s going on so you can deal with these changes in the most graceful and effective way possible.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Specific obligations and consequences for laying off people on different immigration statuses (work permits, green cards, and nonimmigrant visas)
  • Obligations when you're not laying off people but you're changing their duties or reducing work hours
  • Visas that allow spouses to be in the U.S.
  • The risks of staying in the U.S. while being out of status

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook.

Episode 3: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas

Episode 4: An Overview of the Green Card Process

Episode 12: The Visa Options All Recruiters Should Know

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In this episode, I talk about the E-2 visa, which is available for investors who own a company.

The principal investor visa is for somebody who is coming to the United States to develop and direct the operations. It’s also for people who are coming to work in the U.S. as executives, supervisors, or other employees who have essential skills.

What makes this visa type an amazing option is that there’s no lottery involved and it’s available at any time of the year.

Now, not everybody qualifies even if you have a business or you're investing your own money into it. And even if you are, you have to have citizenship from certain countries in order to qualify.

I also talk about some things you need to be cautious about if you are on this type of visa and you’re raising further investment rounds down the road.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • E-2 visa qualifications, requirements, and extension
  • Different paths to navigate through the E-2 visa
  • How much money is required and how to go around this when you’re broke
  • Is there a direct path to a green card?

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook.

Treaty Countries for the E-2 and E-1 visa applications

Dear Sophie on TechCrunch: How do I extend my visa status without leaving the US?

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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Today, I’m taking a deep dive into the visa statuses based on extraordinary ability – the O-1A nonimmigrant visa, the EB1A green card, and the EB2-NIW green card.

And even if you’re still not qualified for these visa types, what I’ll discuss are things you can do moving forward to build the requisite portfolio of accomplishments so you can qualify in the future.

No matter where you are in the world, and no matter what your past accomplishments are…

... if you have a desire for where you're going in the future,

… you can see your company starting to take shape in your mind's eye, and

... you can see the role that you want to play in that company –

It's really possible to build out your criteria for these types of visas in parallel with building your company.

Just remember that there's no one size fits all. It's all very individual. Everybody's field or company is different. And that's what makes startups unique and exciting because they have so much potential!

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • A brief recap about the O-1A, EB1A, and EB2-NIW visa types
  • How these types of immigration statuses are assessed by an immigration attorney
  • Real-life examples of people we've helped

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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We’ve got your back and we remain here to support you. Despite a lot of fear-mongering about immigration right now, we stand firm in our mission to overcome borders, expand opportunity, and connect the world. We serve people like you every day by practicing compassionate, visionary, and expert immigration law, so you can follow your dreams to pursue the betterment of humanity.

As you probably already know by now, President Trump tweeted about immigration last night, April 20th. Trump’s tweet claims he will be signing an unknown executive order at some unspecified time to suspend immigration to the United States for an unknown period:

At this point, it’s just a tweet. The White House has not released the Executive Order, and it’s unclear when it would be signed. When it becomes available, we will review it and continue to provide you with updates about it’s scope and effect, and how it might possibly affect you, and what you can do about it.

If an executive order is issued, we would expect significant litigation. Only Congress has the authority to cease immigration, according to the main immigration law called the Immigration and Nationality Act. We are hopeful that a court would issue a temporary restraining order promptly to put any order on hold until a judge has a full opportunity to determine whether it is legal.

Rest assured, we’re monitoring the situation closely. We’ll continue to update you. Don't hesitate to reach out if we can be of support.

Remember: Be well. Care for your health. Be kind to one another. Take time to daydream. Find moments of joy. Together, we’ve got this.

In today’s episode, I’m covering three visa and green card types that are all about what somebody has accomplished in the past and the promise they'll be bringing to America in the future.

Specifically, we’re diving deep into the O-1A nonimmigrant visa, the EB1-A green card, and the EB2-NIW (national interest waiver) green card.

I’m also going to cover some important strategies companies can use to speed up the visa and green card process for key international talent, new hires, and existing employees.

Whether you’re in the tech space, the startup world, or just anybody who wants to move to the U.S. independently on their own without the assistance of a company, be sure to listen in!

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • A general overview of the O-1A nonimmigrant visa, EB1-A green card, and EB2-NIW
  • Who can apply: requirements and criteria (with some examples)
  • Why they may be a better option than the H-1B (if you’re qualified)
  • Why it’s important to have an individual consultation with an immigration lawyer

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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Being in love is one of the greatest feelings there is!

But what if your loved one is not from the United States and you just badly want them to come to the U.S. so they can be with you?

Or what if you’re here in the U.S. on a work visa status who’s currently applying for a green card and you want your spouse to apply as well?

Today, we talk all about, the ins and outs of coming to the United States based on this thing called LOVE.

I'm joined by my partner, Anita Koumriqian, who is an amazing advocate and has particular expertise in family-based Green Card options.

In this episode, we talk a lot about different family-based alternative visas and green cards that technology professionals really need to know about.

We’re answering a lot of commonly asked questions about these different options – what's the timeline, what's the process, what's the risk, what happens at the interview.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Anita’s background and her interest in family and business immigration
  • The main types of immigration pathways based on being in love
  • Marriage-based green card vs. K-1 fiance visa
  • Other options if you’re not a citizen or a green card holder
  • What happens in an interview and why it’s good to be represented by an attorney

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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If your job is to help a company hire a lot of talented people from all parts of the world – and you want to understand how to navigate the visa process, this episode is for you!

We're outlining the different visa options for recruiters so you have everything in one place. This can serve as your handy reference guide to help you figure out who you can hire and what this will involve.

This is very important so when you're screening candidates and asking them questions, you will have a better understanding of what process might be necessary to engage in.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • An alphabetical list of the different visa options
  • What visa types can a startup founder from another country apply for
  • What you need to know about getting a J-1 visa
  • Which countries are eligible for certain types of work visas

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

www.alcorn.law/recruiters

www.alcorn.law/e1e2countries

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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If you're a startup founder or a recruiter looking to hire someone from overseas to be physically working within the United States, things can get a little overwhelming if you're not familiar with the H-1B process.

In today’s episode, we talk about your startup's first H-1B.

This is especially helpful to small companies and early-stage companies as well as companies that have never done this before.

We're diving deeper into the nuances of the H-1B process because there are some special steps required the first time around.

Whether you're the one doing this process, you're the CEO, or whoever is doing recruiting, everybody needs to be on the same page about the immigration process.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Forming your company before starting the H-1B process
  • Who qualifies as your signatory for the immigration paperwork
  • Things to prepare before and during the H-1B process
  • An overview of H-1B transfers and extensions

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

Grab a copy of the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook.

ILT Episode 003: The Different Types of Nonimmigrant Visas

https://www.alcorn.law/allaboutH-1Bs

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

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In the face of COVID-19 coronavirus that the entire world is facing today, there has been a lot of upheavals and things are changing quite fast – including immigration.

Today, I'm talking about the top 10 changes we’re currently seeing in the immigration landscape.

If you know somebody who might be stuck due to travel restrictions or anybody that would benefit from some of the things that we're going to be talking about in this episode, please share this with them.

My goal for this podcast is to make immigration law accessible to the people who rely and depend on it. I want to level the playing field and make immigration law as accessible as possible.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

  • Travel restrictions and ESTA extensions
  • Visa compliance measures if you’re working from home
  • COVID’s impact on the H-1B lottery and USCIS
  • Regulations for hiring new employees at this time
  • Using the COVID crisis as a Special Situation

Resources mentioned:

Alcorn Immigration Firm

Get the Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook.

Article on visas available to your work-from-home team

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.

He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com