Common questions

Question 1

O-1A seems to be very popular with Y-Combinator startups. Why is that?

Accepted Answer

The O-1A visa is popular among Y-Combinator (YC) alumni because YC startups often receive significant funding, have experienced founders, and gain media exposure—aligning with O-1A criteria such as documented achievements, media coverage, and industry recognition. However, eligibility must still be individually assessed and the petition thoughtfully crafted to avoid issues like RFEs.

Question 2

I come from an E-2 treaty country (e.g., Canada, UK, Germany, Australia, Japan). Should I pursue an E-2 visa for my high-growth startup planning to raise funds in the US?

Accepted Answer

An E-2 visa can be attractive due to lower investment thresholds, but high-growth startups must be cautious. Significant US investment may dilute foreign ownership below the E-2 threshold. Many E-2 holders transition to other visas within 18–36 months to support company growth and ownership changes.

Question 3

When should my startup consider transitioning from an E-2 to an L-1A or EB-1C visa?

Accepted Answer

Consider transitioning when US investment surpasses treaty ownership limits or your startup scales operations both in the US and abroad. L-1A supports executive transfers; EB-1C offers a path to permanent residency. Planning early reduces stress and ensures continuity.

Question 4

Our startup is heavily focused on AI and deep tech. Does this help with visa options?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Specialization in AI and deep tech enhances O-1A and EB-1A applications by demonstrating extraordinary ability through leadership, innovation, awards, media coverage, patents, and thought leadership.

Question 5

Does participation in startup accelerators outside the US (e.g., Antler, Techstars, Entrepreneur First) impact my visa eligibility positively?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Participation in top global accelerators boosts your profile through international recognition, media attention, and documented success. Use this affiliation strategically—press coverage, judged competitions, etc.—to build visa evidence.

Question 6

Can my technical or non-founder executive team members also qualify for visas based on our startup's success and growth trajectory?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Executives and technical leaders can qualify for O-1A or L-1 visas based on their own contributions and the startup's success. Eligibility depends on demonstrating their critical role and achievements. E-2 may also be available depending on nationality.

Question 7

What documentation is essential to strengthen our application for startup-focused visas like O-1A or EB-1A?

Accepted Answer

Key documents include funding round evidence, media articles, keynote appearances, judging panels, patents, influential memberships, and recommendation letters. Strong documentation of innovation and impact is crucial.

Question 8

We're a global remote-first startup—does this remote setup affect our eligibility for US visas?

Accepted Answer

Remote setups don't hurt eligibility, but you must demonstrate significant US presence or intent—through contracts, partnerships, clients, or physical operations. Visas like E-2, L-1A, and O-1A all expect active US market engagement.

Question 9

How far in advance should high-growth startups begin planning their US immigration strategy?

Accepted Answer

Startups should ideally begin planning 6–12 months before their intended move. This timeline allows for optimal documentation, milestone alignment, and flexibility in choosing the best visa path.

Question 10

Is Concord Visa a legal firm?

Accepted Answer

Our in-house immigration attorneys provide general information and guidance only. When clients require legal representation or enter into a legal services agreement, Concord platform connects them with external law firms from our network of independent immigration attorneys. These are licensed professionals who specialize in U.S. immigration matters and with whom we have established working relationships. Through these trusted, independent channels, we ensure our clients receive qualified legal representation.

Question 11

Does Concord Visa assist with immigration visas for countries other than the US?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Concord Visa supports immigration for the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and also helps with digital nomad and remote work visas for destinations like Spain and Thailand.

Common questions

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