06/02/2026
At GYH, we have recently seen a troubling increase in immigration scrutiny directed at foreign nationals participating in startup incubators and accelerators while in visitor status (ESTA, B-1/B-2) or student status (F-1).
For years, foreign entrepreneurs have followed a familiar path to launch their businesses in the US. They come to the United States as students, visitors, or under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA). They join an incubator or accelerator. They build relationships with mentors and investors. They refine their product. They develop traction. Then, once the company gains momentum, they seek an employment-authorized immigration pathway such as an O-1, H-1B, E-2, or another work-authorized status.
Increasingly, however, that pathway is becoming riskier.
For immigrant entrepreneurs and startup founders, immigration strategy is no longer something to address after fundraising or growth—it’s a critical part of business planning from day one.
In our latest blog post, Managing Partner Becki Young breaks down what entrepreneurs need to know: https://www.grossmanyoung.com/blog/startup-founders-immigration-scrutiny/
