Does the O-1 visa allow me to open an American CNPJ?

The O-1 visa, intended for individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields such as science, arts, education, business, or sports, offers many opportunities in the United States. As with other immigration statuses, it is important to understand the specific conditions of the visa and how they apply to business initiatives.

Although there is no legal restriction preventing an O-1 visa holder from establishing a company in the United States, it is crucial to remember that the O-1 status is linked to the function and employer who sponsored the visa. In other words, even though you can form a company-such as an LLC or corporation-it is necessary to ensure that any activity carried out therein complies with the conditions of your visa.

The creation of a business entity does not automatically imply authorization to work therein, unless such activity is clearly authorized in the immigration process. Many O-1 visa holders can invest passively in American companies, but taking an active role in management or operation may violate the terms of the visa.

Therefore, it is essential to seek specialized guidance to assess risks and align actions with US immigration and commercial laws. I emphasize the importance of strictly following the rules and relying on experienced professionals, avoiding proposals without legal support, to ensure compliance and prevent complications.

This response is informative and does not replace individualized legal advice.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.