I am an International Student studying in Fl, I want to start my own business...?

Question

What route could I take? would I have to change my status? Any info would really be helpful!

oh, i also heard that i can work off campus after my first year of study? Is this true?

Answer 1

Get in-depth financial data, articles, email alerts and track / manage your personal portfolio on FT.com

Register FREE at FT.com

http://financenews.at/worldmap?CTY=3&CID...

Answer 2

1) To start your own business is not possible on an F1 visa, you would be looking at an E2 visa. You must be a national of a qualifying Treaty country. The business must have a minimum value of around $150k (the more, the better) bearing in mind you will need somewhere to live and with any startup business you will need at least 2 years living money as back up. So a figure of $350k would be a nearer minimum.

2) Yes it is possible after the first year to work off campus however there are only two ways. One is OPT (Optional Practical Training). This can only be applied for once and only lasts for 12 months. The other is if you can prove financial economic hardship which could not be foreseen, i.e. a loss in your financial support, a dramatic increase in tuition, decrease in value of your home currency etc