How do I get an O-1 visa to freelance on web3 projects? – TechCrunch

Right here’s one other version of “Pricey Sophie,” the recommendation column that solutions immigration-related questions on working at know-how corporations.

“Your questions are very important to the unfold of data that permits individuals all around the world to rise above borders and pursue their goals,” says Sophie Alcorn, a Silicon Valley immigration lawyer. “Whether or not you’re in individuals ops, a founder or in search of a job in Silicon Valley, I might like to reply your questions in my subsequent column.”

TechCrunch+ members obtain entry to weekly “Pricey Sophie” columns; use promo code ALCORN to buy a one- or two-year subscription for 50% off.

Pricey Sophie,

I’m a UX/UI designer in Europe working at a web3 firm in the US.

I wish to resign from my present place and transfer to the U.S. to pursue work that permits me to have extra autonomy, flexibility and the power to tackle quite a lot of initiatives with completely different purchasers within the U.S.

How can I make that occur? Thanks on your assist!

—Worldly web3 Surprise

Pricey Worldly,

I’ve lengthy puzzled if web3 will make immigration out of date. Know-how scales passive work, heightening and elevating the human expertise. I don’t assume immigration will probably be going wherever anytime quickly!

Let’s dive into among the U.S. immigration choices that can enable you to get the autonomy and work variety you crave!

The work visa that permits you to freelance…

Picture Credit: Joanna Buniak/Sophie Alcorn (opens in a brand new window)

Most non-immigrant work visas that will let you keep and work briefly in the US are tied to a selected employer that sponsors you for the visa by providing you a job and submitting a visa utility in your behalf.

Until you will get a piece allow, just one fundamental visa sort clearly permits you to do freelance work — in different phrases, work with a number of corporations — and that’s the O-1 visa. With an O-1A, you’ll need to have a U.S. agent performing both as your employer or representing a number of employers to sponsor you for the O-1. A colleague in your subject might act as your U.S. agent, however the petition should present the small print of the connection between you because the O-1 beneficiary and the U.S. agent.

The O-1 doesn’t give you full autonomy, however it’ll enable you the liberty to decide on quite a lot of initiatives in your subject at completely different organizations.