Here is another version “Dear Sophie,” an advice column that answers immigration-related questions about working at tech companies.
“Your questions are critical to spreading the knowledge that allows people around the world to rise above borders and pursue their dreams,” said Silicon Valley immigration attorney Sophie Alcorn. Whether you’re in People Ops, a founder, or looking for a job in Silicon Valley, I’d love to answer your questions in the next column.
TechCrunch+ members receive weekly access to the “Dear Sophie” columns; Use ALCORN to purchase a one- or two-year subscription at 50% off.
Dear Sophie:
I am a Canadian citizen working in USA as a software engineer on a TN visa.I would like to start my own company or at least make money on the side hustle. Is this possible on my TN or is it the only way I can do this with a green card? If so, is it possible to get permanent residency because TN is for non-immigrant purposes?
– Smart Canadian
dear smart,
There are many things that the modern US immigration system is not designed for (but not limited to): the Internet, e-file and blockchain, remote working, working from home, the modern gig economy, startups, flexible work arrangements, contractor work, and the gig economy.
You may be aware that our current legal system was largely created by the Immigration and Nationality Act. In 1952When everything was so simple, the legal history here is when the judges sailed from China to San Francisco and measured the clothes they sewed when they returned home months later when they made their decisions.
I’ll get straight to the point: You cannot do any work under your TN for anyone other than the employer who sponsored you for the TN. So, my educational message is this: No side hustles or establishing startups while on your TN.
Image Credits: Joanna Buniak / Sophie Alcorn (Opens in a new window)
Two TN visas at once?
Yes it is possible. Under immigration law, you can have two TN visas at the same time – one from your current employer and one from another employer, your startup. However, this is very difficult to achieve, and comes with two very important caveats.
