If I'm seeking asylum in the USA without status can I legally start a business?
Technically, there is no legal prohibition against an undocumented immigrant starting a limited liability company (LLC) in the United States.
However, there are practical and legal challenges that an undocumented immigrant may face in starting and operating a business.
One of the biggest challenges is that undocumented immigrants are not legally authorized to work in the United States.
This means that an undocumented immigrant who starts an LLC cannot legally work for the company or receive a salary or other compensation for their work.
Additionally, an undocumented immigrant may face challenges in obtaining the necessary permits and licenses to operate the business, such as a business license or tax identification number.
Furthermore, starting a business as an undocumented immigrant could also bring attention to an individual’s immigration status and increase the risk of deportation.
Can I Start a Business if I'm Seeking Asylum?
Someone who is seeking asylum can operate a business while their asylum application is pending. However, as mentioned previously working without authorization is illegal.
However, once you obtain your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which is typically granted 150 days after you file your asylum application, you can legally work for the LLC that you started.
However, it’s important to note that there may be certain challenges involved in starting and operating a business as an asylum seeker, including obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, securing funding, and navigating the complexities of the US tax system.
Additionally, as with any business venture, there is always a risk of failure or unforeseen challenges that may arise.
If you are considering starting an LLC as an asylum seeker, it’s important to seek guidance from legal and business experts who can help you navigate the process and maximize your chances of success.
As immigration attorneys and as business consultants, Santos Khoury can help you understand the legal and practical aspects of starting and running an LLC, as well as provide guidance on obtaining the necessary permits and licenses.
Starting a business can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor, but it can also be daunting and complex, especially for individuals who are seeking asylum in the United States. If you are an asylum seeker who is considering starting a business, you may be wondering about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The good news is that with the right guidance and resources, you can turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
At its core, starting a business as an asylum seeker requires two things: passion and perseverance. You need to be passionate about your business idea and be willing to put in the time and effort required to make it succeed. And you need to be perseverant in the face of challenges and obstacles, which may include legal and financial hurdles, cultural differences, and other barriers.
Fortunately, there are many resources available to help you navigate the process of starting a business as an asylum seeker. These resources include legal and business experts who can provide guidance and support, as well as organizations and programs that can help you access funding, training, and other resources.
One of the first steps in starting a business as an asylum seeker is to consult with an immigration attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and obligations. The attorneys at Santos Khoury can help you navigate the process of starting a business venture in the USA.
