{"id":1926,"date":"2026-07-21T14:08:15","date_gmt":"2026-07-21T14:08:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/o1-visa-startup-founders\/"},"modified":"2026-07-21T17:55:28","modified_gmt":"2026-07-21T17:55:28","slug":"o-1-visa-for-startup-founders","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/","title":{"rendered":"O-1-visum voor oprichters van start-ups: kan je eigen Amerikaanse bedrijf je sponsoren?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Bladeren door inhoud<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle tabel met inhoud\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Schakel<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseprofile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Key_Takeaways\" >Belangrijkste opmerkingen<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#What_This_Guide_Covers\" >What This Guide Covers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Understanding_the_O-1_Visa_for_Startup_Founders\" >Understanding the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Can_Your_Own_Company_Sponsor_You\" >Can Your Own Company Sponsor You?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#The_Employer-Employee_Requirement\" >The Employer-Employee Requirement<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#How_to_Structure_Your_Company\" >How to Structure Your Company<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Meeting_the_O-1A_Criteria\" >Meeting the O-1A Criteria<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Evidence_Founders_Can_Use\" >Evidence Founders Can Use<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Common_Mistakes\" >Common Mistakes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#A_Note_for_Turkish_Founders\" >A Note for Turkish Founders<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#When_to_Work_With_an_Immigration_Attorney\" >When to Work With an Immigration Attorney<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Veelgestelde vragen<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Can_a_startup_founder_get_an_O-1_visa\" >Kan de oprichter van een start-up een O-1-visum krijgen?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Can_I_sponsor_my_own_O-1_visa\" >Can I sponsor my own O-1 visa?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#What_does_the_employer-employee_relationship_mean_for_founders\" >What does the employer-employee relationship mean for founders?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#How_do_I_structure_my_company_to_sponsor_my_O-1\" >How do I structure my company to sponsor my O-1?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#What_O-1A_criteria_can_founders_meet\" >What O-1A criteria can founders meet?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Is_the_O-1_a_self-petition_like_the_EB-1A\" >Is the O-1 a self-petition like the EB-1A?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Can_a_Turkish_founder_use_their_new_US_startup_to_petition\" >Can a Turkish founder use their new U.S. startup to petition?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Bottom_Line_on_the_O-1_Visa_for_Startup_Founders\" >Bottom Line on the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Sources\" >Sources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1-visa-for-startup-founders\/#Related_Articles\" >Related Articles<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-1\">Can your own U.S. company sponsor you for an O-1 visa for startup founders? Yes, in a specific way. You cannot self-petition as an individual, but a U.S. company you own, such as a corporation or LLC, can file the <strong>O-1 visa for startup founders<\/strong> on your behalf. USCIS confirmed this in a 2025 policy update. The catch is that a genuine employer-employee relationship must still exist, meaning the company, through its governance, must be able to control your work, including the ability to hire, pay, supervise, or terminate you.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-2\">This guide explains how founder O-1 sponsorship works, how to structure your company so it can legitimately petition, and what extraordinary-ability evidence USCIS expects. It complements our <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1a-visa\/\">O-1A visa service page<\/a> and our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o1-visa-evidence-examples-2026\/\">O-1 evidence examples<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-3\">This guide explains how the O-1 visa for startup founders sponsorship works, how to structure your company so it can legitimately petition, and what extraordinary-ability evidence USCIS expects. It complements our <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o-1a-visa\/\">O-1A visa service page<\/a> and our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o1-visa-evidence-examples-2026\/\">O-1 evidence examples<\/a>.<\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-4\">Building a startup and wondering whether your company can sponsor your O-1? Atlas Legal can review your ownership structure, governance, and evidence to help you set it up correctly. <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/contact\/\">Reach our team<\/a> to plan your petition.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-5\">Building a startup and wondering whether your company can sponsor your O-1 visa for startup founders? Atlas Legal can review your ownership structure, governance, and evidence to help you set it up correctly. <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/contact\/\">Reach our team<\/a> to plan your petition.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<h2 id=\"takeaways\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-6\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Takeaways\"><\/span>Belangrijkste opmerkingen<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-7\">Individuals cannot self-petition for an O-1 visa. A U.S. company you own can petition for you.<\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-8\">A 2025 USCIS policy update confirmed that a beneficiary-owned entity may serve as the O-1 petitioner.<\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-9\">A genuine employer-employee relationship must exist. The company must be able to hire, pay, supervise, or terminate you.<\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-10\">Clear corporate separation matters. A board or governance structure that can control your employment strengthens the case.<\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-11\">You still must meet the O-1A extraordinary-ability standard with evidence under 8 CFR 214.2(o).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"toc\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-12\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_This_Guide_Covers\"><\/span>What This Guide Covers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h2 id=\"founder-visa\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-13\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_the_O-1_Visa_for_Startup_Founders\"><\/span>Understanding the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-14\">Understanding the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders is crucial for founders seeking sponsorship.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-15\"><a href=\"#canmy\">Can your own company sponsor you?<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-16\"><a href=\"#relationship\">The employer-employee requirement<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-17\"><a href=\"#structure\">How to structure your company<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-18\"><a href=\"#criteria\">Meeting the O-1A criteria<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-19\"><a href=\"#evidence\">Evidence founders can use<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-20\"><a href=\"#mistakes\">Common mistakes<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-21\"><a href=\"#faq\">Frequently asked questions<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"canmy\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-22\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_Your_Own_Company_Sponsor_You\"><\/span>Can Your Own Company Sponsor You?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-23\">Yes, your own U.S. company can petition for your O-1, but you cannot file for yourself as an individual. The distinction is important. The O-1 rules do not allow self-petitioning the way some green card categories do. What they do allow is for a separate legal entity, including one you own, to act as the petitioning employer. USCIS clarified in 2025 that ownership alone does not disqualify a company from sponsoring its founder.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-24\">Ss=&#8221;rank-math-highlight&#8221; style=&#8221;background-color: #fee894&#8243;&gt;For many entrepreneurs, the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders is the key to accessing the U.S. market.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-25\">This opened a realistic path for founders who previously had to find an outside employer or agent. If you have formed a U.S. corporation or LLC, that entity can file the O-1 petition naming you as the beneficiary, provided the relationship between you and the company meets USCIS requirements.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-26\">With the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders, you can navigate your entrepreneurial journey more effectively.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/o1-employer-relationship.jpg\" alt=\"Board meeting representing corporate governance for O-1 sponsorship\" \/><figcaption data-rm-block-id=\"block-27\">The company must be able to control the founder&#8217;s work. Photo by <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/w\/index.php?curid=53052434\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Sehinde<\/a>, CC BY-SA 4.0<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"relationship\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-28\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Employer-Employee_Requirement\"><\/span>The Employer-Employee Requirement<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-29\">Understanding the employer-employee requirement is vital when applying for the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-30\">The core requirement is a genuine employer-employee relationship between the company and you. USCIS looks for the company&#8217;s ability to control your work, described as the power to &#8220;hire, pay, fire, supervise, or otherwise control the work&#8221; of the beneficiary. Owning the company does not remove this requirement, so the petition must show that the entity, not just you personally, holds that control.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-31\">The O-1 Visa for Startup Founders allows your company to thrive while you innovate.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-32\">In practice, this is usually demonstrated through corporate governance. A board of directors, investors, or other officers who can exercise authority over your role help show that the company can direct and, if necessary, end your employment. The more your company functions as a real, separately governed business rather than an extension of yourself, the stronger the relationship looks.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/o1-company-structure.jpg\" alt=\"Startup team planning, representing company structure for O-1 sponsorship\" \/><figcaption data-rm-block-id=\"block-33\">Clear corporate separation strengthens a founder O-1 petition. Photo by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/44124348109@N01\/6554034347\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">jurvetson<\/a>, CC BY 2.0<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"structure\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-34\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Structure_Your_Company\"><\/span>How to Structure Your Company<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-35\">Your structure needs to reflect the needs of the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-36\">Structure your company so it clearly operates as a distinct entity with the ability to control your employment. Founders often do this by establishing a board or governance body with authority over the founder&#8217;s role, keeping formal corporate records, and maintaining separation between personal and company finances. An employment agreement between you and the company that spells out duties, compensation, and the company&#8217;s authority also helps.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-37\">Potential founders should structure their companies with the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders in mind.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-38\">The goal is to avoid the appearance that you and the company are indistinguishable. USCIS expects to see independent operations, formal records, and a governance structure capable of supervising or terminating the beneficiary. These steps support both the O-1 petition and your broader corporate credibility.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/o1-extraordinary-evidence.jpg\" alt=\"Award and recognition representing O-1A extraordinary ability evidence\" \/><figcaption data-rm-block-id=\"block-39\">Founders must still meet the extraordinary-ability standard.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"criteria\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-40\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Meeting_the_O-1A_Criteria\"><\/span>Meeting the O-1A Criteria<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-41\">Sponsorship structure is only half the case. You still must qualify as a person of extraordinary ability. For O-1A, the standard is met by a major internationally recognized award or by satisfying at least three of the eight regulatory criteria under 8 CFR 214.2(o)(3)(iii). Those criteria include awards, membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement, published material about you, judging the work of others, original contributions of major significance, authorship of scholarly articles, employment in a critical capacity for distinguished organizations, and high remuneration.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-42\">Every founder should know how to meet the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders criteria.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-43\">For founders, several of these map naturally to a startup career. Original contributions of major significance, a critical role for a distinguished organization, published coverage, and judging or advising can all apply. The key is quality of evidence, not just checking boxes. USCIS weighs whether the totality of the evidence shows you are among the small percentage at the top of your field.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"evidence\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-44\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Evidence_Founders_Can_Use\"><\/span>Evidence Founders Can Use<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-45\">Gathering evidence for the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders requires strategic planning.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-46\"><strong>Original contributions:<\/strong> patents, products, or innovations with evidence of their impact on the field.<\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-47\"><strong>Press coverage:<\/strong> articles in recognized media about you or your work.<\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-48\"><strong>Critical role:<\/strong> proof you hold an essential leadership role at a notable organization.<\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-49\"><strong>Judging:<\/strong> serving as a startup competition judge, reviewer, or advisor.<\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-50\"><strong>High remuneration:<\/strong> compensation, funding, or valuation evidence indicating standing.<\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-51\"><strong>Awards and recognition:<\/strong> industry or accelerator awards showing distinction.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"mistakes\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-52\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Mistakes\"><\/span>Common Mistakes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-53\">A common mistake is not understanding the requirements of the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-54\"><strong>Trying to self-petition.<\/strong> Filing as an individual rather than through the company.<\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-55\"><strong>No governance separation.<\/strong> A company that looks indistinguishable from the founder.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-56\">Only with proper governance can a company sponsor an O-1 Visa for Startup Founders.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-57\"><strong>Weak control evidence.<\/strong> Nothing showing the company can supervise or terminate you.<\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-58\"><strong>Thin extraordinary-ability proof.<\/strong> Meeting criteria on paper without persuasive evidence.<\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-59\"><strong>Overstating early traction.<\/strong> Claims a young startup cannot support with documentation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-60\">Ensure you have strong evidence for your O-1 Visa for Startup Founders application.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"turkey\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-61\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_Note_for_Turkish_Founders\"><\/span>A Note for Turkish Founders<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-62\">Turkish founders launching a U.S. startup often process the O-1 at the U.S. Mission in Turkey after the petition is approved. Prepare recognition evidence that translates across borders, such as international press, awards, and documented contributions, and keep your company&#8217;s governance records clean. If your long-term goal is permanent residence, the O-1A can lead to an <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o1a-to-eb1a-green-card\/\">EB-1A groene kaart<\/a>, which allows self-petition and rewards a similar body of evidence.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-63\">Ss=&#8221;rank-math-highlight&#8221; style=&#8221;background-color: #fee894&#8243;&gt;For Turkish founders, the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders offers a unique opportunity in the U.S.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"attorney\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-64\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_Work_With_an_Immigration_Attorney\"><\/span>When to Work With an Immigration Attorney<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-65\">Founder O-1 cases combine corporate structuring with a demanding evidentiary standard, and both parts have to work together. Legal review is valuable when you are setting up governance so your company can legitimately petition, when you are assembling extraordinary-ability evidence, or when you are deciding between an O-1 through your company and an agent-based petition. An attorney can help align your corporate structure with USCIS expectations and present your record persuasively. Eligibility and outcomes depend on the facts of each case.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-66\">Legal advice is recommended for navigating the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders process.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"faq\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-67\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Veelgestelde vragen<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 data-rm-block-id=\"block-68\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_a_startup_founder_get_an_O-1_visa\"><\/span>Kan de oprichter van een start-up een O-1-visum krijgen?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-69\">Can a startup founder obtain an O-1 Visa for Startup Founders? Yes.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-70\">Yes. A founder can obtain an O-1 visa when a U.S. company they own petitions on their behalf and they meet the extraordinary-ability standard. Individuals cannot self-petition, but a 2025 USCIS policy update confirmed that a beneficiary-owned entity can serve as the petitioner. The company must show a genuine employer-employee relationship and the ability to control the founder&#8217;s work.<\/p>\n<h3 data-rm-block-id=\"block-71\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_sponsor_my_own_O-1_visa\"><\/span>Can I sponsor my own O-1 visa?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-72\">Understanding how to sponsor your own O-1 Visa for Startup Founders is essential.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-73\">Not as an individual. You cannot self-petition for an O-1. However, a separate legal entity you own, such as a corporation or LLC, can file the petition for you. The difference is that the company, not you personally, is the petitioner, and it must be able to hire, pay, supervise, or terminate you through a real governance structure.<\/p>\n<h3 data-rm-block-id=\"block-74\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_does_the_employer-employee_relationship_mean_for_founders\"><\/span>What does the employer-employee relationship mean for founders?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-75\">The employer-employee relationship is critical for your O-1 Visa for Startup Founders.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-76\">It means the petitioning company must be able to control the beneficiary&#8217;s work, including the authority to hire, pay, supervise, or fire. For a founder-owned company, this is usually shown through corporate governance, such as a board or investors who can exercise authority over the founder&#8217;s role. Ownership alone does not satisfy or defeat this requirement.<\/p>\n<h3 data-rm-block-id=\"block-77\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_I_structure_my_company_to_sponsor_my_O-1\"><\/span>How do I structure my company to sponsor my O-1?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-78\">Proper structure is needed to ensure the success of your O-1 Visa for Startup Founders.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-79\">Establish the company as a genuinely separate entity with the ability to control your employment. Common steps include creating a board or governance body with authority over your role, keeping formal corporate records, separating personal and business finances, and signing an employment agreement. The aim is to show independent operations rather than a company indistinguishable from you.<\/p>\n<h3 data-rm-block-id=\"block-80\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_O-1A_criteria_can_founders_meet\"><\/span>What O-1A criteria can founders meet?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-81\">Founders can meet the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders criteria with strong evidence.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-82\">Founders often satisfy criteria such as original contributions of major significance, a critical role for a distinguished organization, published material about their work, judging or advising, and high remuneration. You need a major award or at least three of the eight O-1A criteria under 8 CFR 214.2(o). Strong, well-documented evidence matters more than simply listing categories.<\/p>\n<h3 data-rm-block-id=\"block-83\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_the_O-1_a_self-petition_like_the_EB-1A\"><\/span>Is the O-1 a self-petition like the EB-1A?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-84\">The O-1 is not a self-petition like the EB-1A for startup founders.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-85\">No. The O-1 is not a self-petition category, so an individual cannot file for themselves. A company, including a beneficiary-owned one, must petition. The EB-1A green card, by contrast, does allow self-petition. Many founders use the O-1 as a temporary status and later self-petition for EB-1A when their evidence supports the higher permanent-residence standard.<\/p>\n<h3 data-rm-block-id=\"block-86\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_a_Turkish_founder_use_their_new_US_startup_to_petition\"><\/span>Can a Turkish founder use their new U.S. startup to petition?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-87\">Turkish founders can utilize the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders effectively.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-88\">Yes, if the U.S. entity is properly formed and can demonstrate a genuine employer-employee relationship. A newly created company can petition, but it should have real governance, formal records, and the ability to control the founder&#8217;s work. The founder must also meet the extraordinary-ability standard with evidence that carries weight internationally, then typically process the visa in Turkey.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"conclusion\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-89\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bottom_Line_on_the_O-1_Visa_for_Startup_Founders\"><\/span>Bottom Line on the O-1 Visa for Startup Founders<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-90\">The 2025 clarification changed the landscape for founders: your own company can sponsor your O-1, even though you cannot file for yourself. The two things that make it work are structure and substance. Build a company with real governance that can genuinely control your employment, and back your petition with extraordinary-ability evidence that shows you at the top of your field. Get either piece wrong and the case weakens. Each petition depends on its own facts, and nothing here guarantees approval.<\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-91\">If you want to set up your company to sponsor your O-1 and present your strongest evidence, Atlas Legal Immigration Law can help. Reach us at <strong>1750 E Golf Rd Ste 214, Schaumburg, IL 60173<\/strong>, call <strong>(+1) 872 382 2762<\/strong>, or email <strong>info@theatlaslegal.com<\/strong>. Learn more on our <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/talent-and-performance-visas\/\">talent and performance visa page<\/a>.<\/p>\n<hr data-rm-block-id=\"block-92\" \/>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-93\"><em>Reviewed by the Atlas Legal Immigration Law editorial team. Last reviewed on July 21, 2026.<\/em><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"sources\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-94\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sources\"><\/span>Sources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-95\">Electronic Code of Federal Regulations, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecfr.gov\/current\/title-8\/chapter-I\/subchapter-B\/part-214\/subpart-A\/section-214.2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">8 CFR 214.2(o), O Nonimmigrant Classification<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-96\">U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/temporary-workers\/o-1-visa-individuals-with-extraordinary-ability-or-achievement\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">O-1 Visa: Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-97\">U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/policy-manual\/volume-2-part-m-chapter-3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Policy Manual, O Petitioners<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-98\"><em>This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws, government fees, policies, and processing times may change. Reading this article or contacting Atlas Legal does not by itself create an attorney-client relationship. The outcome of any immigration matter depends on its individual facts and circumstances.<\/em><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"related\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-99\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Related_Articles\"><\/span>Related Articles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-100\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o1-agent-petition\/\">O-1 Agent Petition: Working for Multiple U.S. Clients<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-101\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o1a-to-eb1a-green-card\/\">O-1A to EB-1A Green Card: When Is Your Evidence Strong Enough?<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-rm-block-id=\"block-102\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/o1-visa-extraordinary-ability-2026-requirements-guide\/\">O-1 Visa: Extraordinary Ability Requirements and Criteria<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Can your own company sponsor your O-1? A 2025 USCIS update lets a beneficiary-owned entity petition. Learn the employer-employee rule and how to structure it.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":1925,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[473],"tags":[544,67,543,542,474,477],"class_list":["post-1926","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-o-1-visa","tag-beneficiary-owned-entity","tag-extraordinary-ability-visa","tag-o-1-self-sponsorship","tag-o-1-startup-founder","tag-o-1-visa","tag-o-1-visa-lawyer"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1926","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1926"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1926\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1981,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1926\/revisions\/1981"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1925"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1926"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1926"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1926"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}