H1-B with F1 wife opening a business.

[Phalanx]

Hello,

I am currently on H1B. My wife, who is now on F1 visa, is going to get her MBA degree next year. We are looking to open a restaurant when she graduates. Can she legally run the restaurant without going through OPT? Is there any visa type changing required? If we can run the restaurant, how long can we stay in the US?

For myself, can I work part time for other company while still maintaining full time position at the company which sponsored me H1B?

We tried to consult with a lawyer at the university where my wife is going to but the lawyer appears to have less knowledge about immigration than us.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Phalanx]

You may not have the answers but know someone who does? Please recommend me. I am looking for some trust worthy immigration attorney that can help my case. Not being discriminated but a few white attorneys that I spoke with didn't have the intention to help.

Thanks,

 

[TheRealCanadian]

We are looking to open a restaurant when she graduates. Can she legally run the restaurant without going through OPT? Is there any visa type changing required? If we can run the restaurant, how long can we stay in the US?

She cannot run the restaurant. She might be able to get an E visa, but that's all that comes to mind.

For myself, can I work part time for other company while still maintaining full time position at the company which sponsored me H1B?

No.

 

[whitemimauz3]

She can be self employed during her 12 months F1 OPT period & if she hold STEM degree she would get OPT extension for additional 17 moths, during which she has to work under field that closely resembles her degree.