Peter Roberts, an immigration attorney working with Y Combinator and startups, hosted an AMA on Hacker News. He primarily addressed questions about visas for startup founders, including the O-1A visa for individuals with extraordinary ability, the E-2 treaty investor visa, and the H-1B visa for specialty occupations. He discussed the requirements and challenges associated with each visa, emphasizing the importance of a strong application with ample evidence of achievement. Roberts also touched on topics such as incorporating in the US, the process of obtaining a green card, and the difficulties international founders face when raising capital. He highlighted the complexities of US immigration law and offered general advice while encouraging individuals to seek personalized legal counsel.
Peter Roberts, an immigration attorney specializing in working with Y Combinator (YC) and startup companies, hosted an "Ask Me Anything" (AMA) session on Hacker News. He introduced himself and his area of expertise, offering to answer questions about US immigration law as it pertains to the unique challenges and opportunities faced by startups and the individuals they employ, particularly those associated with the YC accelerator program. He explicitly stated his willingness to address inquiries concerning visa options like the H-1B, O-1, and J-1, as well as the complexities of green card processes (specifically EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 categories) and other relevant immigration matters. Mr. Roberts emphasized his familiarity with the specific needs and circumstances of YC companies and their employees, implying a deep understanding of the fast-paced and often complex environment of the startup world. He did not specify any limitations on the scope of questions, suggesting an openness to discussing various aspects of immigration law within the context of startups, from initial visa applications to long-term residency strategies. The post served as an invitation for individuals navigating the intricate landscape of US immigration law, especially those within the YC ecosystem, to gain insights and receive expert advice directly from a seasoned professional in the field.
Summary of Comments ( 26 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42770125
Commenters on the "Ask Me Anything" with immigration attorney Peter Roberts largely focused on practical questions related to visas for startup founders and employees. Several inquiries revolved around the complexities of the O-1 visa, particularly regarding demonstrating extraordinary ability and the impact of prior visa denials. Others asked about alternatives like the E-2 treaty investor visa and the H-1B visa, including strategies for navigating the lottery system. A few commenters also discussed the broader challenges of US immigration policy and its impact on the tech industry, specifically the difficulty of attracting and retaining global talent. Some expressed frustration with the current system while others shared personal anecdotes about their immigration experiences.
The Hacker News post titled "I'm Peter Roberts, immigration attorney, who does work for YC and startups. AMA" generated a robust discussion with several compelling comments. Many commenters posed specific questions related to their individual immigration situations or sought clarification on complex visa processes. It wasn't just a Q&A with the original poster, though; several commenters shared their own experiences and insights, fostering a rich exchange of information.
Several threads revolved around the practicalities of navigating the US immigration system. Commenters inquired about the H-1B visa process, particularly regarding the lottery system, prevailing wage requirements, and the challenges of changing employers. There were also discussions about alternative visa options, such as the O-1 visa for individuals with extraordinary ability, and the E-2 treaty investor visa. Some commenters expressed frustration with the current system's complexity and lengthy processing times, while others offered advice based on their personal experiences.
Specific questions addressed included: the impact of remote work on visa requirements; the process of obtaining green cards through employment; the implications of having a spouse on a different visa status; and the challenges faced by international founders looking to start businesses in the US. The original poster, Peter Roberts, actively engaged with many of these questions, providing detailed and informative responses. He offered insights into the legal nuances of various visa categories and shared practical tips for navigating the immigration process.
Beyond individual questions, some commenters engaged in broader discussions about immigration policy and its impact on the tech industry. Some argued for reforms to make the system more streamlined and accessible to skilled workers, while others raised concerns about the potential for abuse and the need for effective enforcement. There were also discussions about the ethical considerations of hiring foreign workers and the importance of ensuring fair labor practices.
In summary, the comments section provided a valuable forum for individuals to seek expert advice, share personal experiences, and engage in a thoughtful discussion about the complexities of US immigration law, particularly as it relates to the startup and tech community. The active participation of the original poster, combined with the diverse perspectives of the commenters, created a dynamic and informative exchange.