NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Washington, DC, July 2, 2025: In a major shift in U.S. immigration policy, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have rolled out new regulations that allow qualified entrepreneurs to self-sponsor their H-1B visas—marking a significant step in making the U.S. more accessible to global startup founders.
The policy, which officially took effect on January 17, 2025, is generating renewed interest this week as media outlets and immigration experts highlight the practical impact of the changes. Recent reports by outlets emphasize that the new rule is no longer just theoretical—it’s actively being used by founders looking to build their companies on U.S. soil.
Previously, the H-1B visa required a U.S. employer to sponsor the applicant. Under the updated rule, entrepreneurs can now sponsor themselves through a company they own, provided certain conditions are met. The move is seen as a way to attract global talent and foster job creation in the United States.
To qualify for a self-sponsored H-1B, entrepreneurs must:
- Be majority owners of a U.S.-registered corporation or LLC (sole proprietors are ineligible),
- Establish a legitimate employer-employee relationship by setting up a board or governance structure that can hire, fire, and supervise the visa applicant,
- Demonstrate financial viability, often through proof of $100,000+ in assets, funding, or payroll capacity,
- Fulfill the specialty occupation requirement by showing that the job requires a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specialized field.
Successful applicants are initially granted an 18-month H-1B visa, with the possibility of an 18-month extension. Subsequent extensions can be granted in three-year increments, up to the typical six-year limit.
While the changes offer new opportunities for immigrant founders, they also come with increased scrutiny. USCIS has announced that it will step up compliance enforcement, including site visits and Requests for Evidence (RFEs) to verify the legitimacy of the business and employment relationship.
