Can H-1B Visa holders open a Shopify account in the USA?

Starting a Shopify store is an exciting venture, but if you are a H-1B visa holder in the USA, things might be a little bit complicated for you. You might be wondering—can I open a Shopify store while on an H-1B visa? The short answer is yes, but with some important restrictions.

In this blog, we will break down everything you need to know, from what the H-1B visa allows, the challenges of starting a Shopify store, step-by-step instructions for launching one, new regulations in 2025, and tips to ensure your store runs smoothly.

Let’s begin. 

What Is An H-1B Visa?

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. employers to hire foreign professionals in specialized fields like IT, engineering, and finance. It’s employer-specific, meaning you can only work for the company that sponsors your visa.

Key Facts About the H-1B Visa:

• Job-Specific – You can only work for your sponsoring employer.
• Temporary Status – The visa is typically valid for three years, extendable up to six years.
• No Independent Work – You cannot work for another company or run a business actively.
• Path to a Green Card – Many H-1B holders eventually apply for permanent residency (Green Card).

Now, let’s address the big question—can you start and run a Shopify store on an H-1B visa?

Challenges of Starting a Shopify Store as an H-1B Visa Holder

While there’s no restriction on owning a business in the USA., the real challenge is working for it. Let’s see. 

#1 Employment Restrictions

Your H-1B status does not actively restrict you to own a business but how you manage it. What we mean is:

• You cannot process orders, manage customer service, or handle daily operations.
• You can invest in and own the business, as long as you do not perform direct work.

#2 Passive vs. Active Involvement

This means with an H-1B visa, you can have passive investment - meaning you can own the store but not run it.

Example:

• Passive involvement - Hiring a manager or agency to run the store for you.
• Active involvement - Handling product listings, shipping, or customer service yourself.

#3 Compliance with Immigration Laws

Any unauthorized work on your business could lead to serious issues, including visa violations or even deportation. Consulting an immigration attorney is highly recommended.

How to Start a Shopify Store as an H-1B Visa Holder

If you're still eager to start a Shopify store, here’s a legal way to do it without violating your visa status.

Step 1: Register Your Business

Set up a legal entity such as an LLC (Limited Liability Company) in the U.S. Popular options include:

• Delaware LLC – Business-friendly laws and low tax rates.
• Wyoming LLC – Great for online businesses with privacy protections.

Tip: Consult a business attorney to ensure compliance with U.S. business laws.

Step 2: Appoint a Manager

Since you can’t run the business yourself, appoint a U.S. citizen or permanent resident as your store’s manager. They will handle the daily operations while you remain a passive owner.

Step 3: Open a Business Bank Account

To keep your finances in check, open a business bank account in the name of your LLC. Shopify payments will be deposited here.

Step 4: Set Up Your Shopify Store

Now, let's get into the technical part:

• Sign up for Shopify – Visit shopify.com and create your store.
• Pick a Theme – Choose from free or paid Shopify themes to design your site.
• Add Products – Upload product images, descriptions, and prices.
• Set Up Payments – Link Stripe, PayPal, or Shopify Payments (ensure compliance with banking rules).
• Configure Shipping – Set up local and international shipping rates.
• Test Everything – Do a test order to ensure smooth checkout.

Step 5: Launch and Market Your Store

Once everything is set up, you can officially launch your Shopify store. Since you can’t actively market it yourself, you can:

• Hire a digital marketing agency to run your ads.
• Use freelancers to manage SEO, social media, and email marketing.

Also read: Data privacy 2025: Key US Laws & AI Rules for Ecommerce

New H-1B Rules for 2025: What’s Changed?

As of 2025, new regulations have made it slightly easier for H-1B visa holders to start businesses. Here’s what’s changed:

#1 H-1B Self-Sponsorship

You can now self-sponsor an H-1B visa through your own startup, provided you meet these conditions:

• The company must legally employ you (with a salary).
• The board of directors or supervisor must control your employment to prove employer-employee relationship.

#2 Stricter Worksite Compliance

USCIS is increasing site visits to check whether H-1B holders are complying with visa rules. This means:

• No unauthorized work on your Shopify store.
• Keep detailed documentation proving passive ownership.

#3 More Clarity on Passive Investment

Regulations now explicitly allow H-1B holders to:

• Own a Shopify store as an investor.
• Earn profits from the business.
• Not engage in active management or operations.

Tips for Running Your Shopify Store Successfully

Now that you know how to legally run your store, let’s talk about how to make it profitable.

#1 Automate Everything 

Since you can’t work in your store, automation is key. Use apps like:

• Oberlo – Automates dropshipping.
• Zendesk – Manages customer support.
• Klaviyo – Automates email marketing.

Also read: Email marketing ideas for your Shopify sales campaign. 

#2 Hire a Team

You’ll need:

• A store manager (U.S. citizen or Green Card holder).
• Freelancers for marketing, order fulfillment, and support.

#3 Focus on Passive Income Streams

Choose business models that require minimal intervention, such as:

• Dropshipping – No inventory management required.
• Print-on-Demand – Automated fulfillment for custom merchandise.
• Affiliate Marketing – Earn commissions without handling products.

#4 Stay Legally Compliant 

• Maintain separation between your H-1B job and Shopify store.
• File business taxes and report income properly.
• Regularly consult an immigration lawyer for updates.

Will Shopify Help Your Immigration Journey?

If you plan to apply for a Green Card or transition to an E-2 (Investor) Visa, your Shopify business could play a strategic role:

Green Card Consideration – Your ecommerce business can serve as an investment, but you must not actively manage it until you obtain permanent residency.

Transition to E-2 Visa – If you later become eligible, you could use your Shopify earnings to qualify for an E-2 investor visa (which allows full-time business management).

Startup-Friendly H-1B Rules – If self-sponsorship rules evolve further, your Shopify business could sponsor your own H-1B in the future.

What Is The Final Verdict?

Yes, if:

• You’re willing to be a passive investor and hire a manager.
• You choose an automated business model (dropshipping, digital products, etc.).
• You plan for long-term immigration benefits through business growth.

No, if:

• You want to be actively involved in your business operations.
• You’re on a tight budget and cannot afford outsourcing.
• You don’t want to take legal and tax-related responsibilities.

If done legally and strategically, a Shopify store can be a great passive income stream while on an H-1B. Before starting, consult with an immigration attorney and a business expert to ensure you’re on the right track.

Author

CrawlApps

At CrawlApps, we don’t just build Shopify stores—we create experiences that sell. We’re a bunch of problem-solvers who love turning ideas into stores that actually converts. Whether it’s fixing what’s broken or building something from scratch, we make sure every detail works in your favor. No fluff, no jargon—just real solutions that help your business grow. If you’re serious about Shopify, you’ll feel right at home with us.