The most important tech innovations often happen at startups, who often require technically skilled talent with advanced degrees. While these companies are eligible to sponsor work visas, immigrants are much less likely to work for a startup than their U.S.-born counterparts. Unfortunately, this discrepancy is likely related to features of American immigration law, rather than the preferences of foreign-born STEM PhDs themselves. Here’s what you need to know if you run a startup. 

How Immigration Law Affects Tech Startups

Attracting top talent is a constant challenge for tech startups, many of which may not have even launched their first product. With fewer resources and an uncertain future, many fledgling companies struggle to compete with larger, more established firms that can offer security and more generous compensation packages to new hires. Unfortunately, this disadvantage is even more pronounced if startups wish to hire a foreign STEM Ph.D.

Difficulties With Immigration Law

Immigration law makes a variety of visas available to foreign-born workers with advanced degrees, especially those in STEM fields. In some fields, over half of those with PhDs are international, making these workers a vital resource for both established technology fields and promising startups.

Unfortunately, the process of sponsoring a foreign-born worker is extremely complex, requiring in-depth expertise and a detailed understanding of immigration law. While larger, more established companies might have the resources and experience to navigate this process easily, startups usually do not. This makes tech startups less attractive to foreign-born workers, especially those who wish to obtain permanent residence.

How Startups Can Attract Immigrant Workers

For many startups, success depends on attracting the top candidates for every available position, which often means hiring foreign PhDs. Understanding the process and appointing someone to head up the sponsorship effort can improve your chances of recruiting the best workers available; however, in many cases, you may need outside expertise.

When you need an immigration law firm to help ensure that your paperwork is in order, submit documentation on time, and avoid common mistakes, contact Berd & Klauss, PLLC. They have helped companies across the country navigate the complexities of the U.S. immigration system for over a decade. Whether you’re a new startup or an established firm hoping to hire a foreign-born professional, this NYC immigration law firm offers the expertise and dedicated attention you need. For an overview of their extensive list of services, visit their website now or call their offices at (212) 461-7152 to schedule a consultation.