Immigration has always been a hot topic, but it’s more than just a political debate—it’s a lifeline for innovation and progress. On the latest episode of Better You by Neeraj, I sat down with Ayda, a dynamic immigration lawyer based in Los Angeles, who has made it her mission to help entrepreneurs, startups, and talented individuals build their dreams in the U.S.
It took months to get Ayda on the podcast (she’s that busy!), but the wait was worth it. From decoding the Einstein Visa to sharing the challenges faced by immigrant founders, Ayda gave us a masterclass on navigating the U.S. immigration system.
The Journey to Becoming an Immigration Advocate
Ayda’s path to law was anything but conventional. Starting in fine arts and photography, she realized her passion lay in helping people on a more profound level. So, she traded cameras for case law, attended Loyola Law School, and eventually built a thriving practice specializing in corporate and employment-based immigration.
Her unique background brings creativity to her approach, whether she’s helping startups secure visas for their co-founders or guiding large corporations through bureaucratic hurdles.
Demystifying the Einstein Visa
One of the most fascinating parts of our conversation was about the Einstein Visa, or the EB-1A green card. This isn’t just a visa—it’s a golden ticket for individuals with extraordinary abilities in areas like science, technology, and the arts.
Ayda explained how the EB-1A allows talented individuals to self-petition, bypassing the need for a sponsoring employer. It’s an empowering option for entrepreneurs and innovators, especially those who want the freedom to build their companies without the constraints of traditional visa processes.
“The Einstein Visa is about showcasing your contributions and merit,” Ayda said. “It’s not just for Nobel laureates; it’s for anyone who can prove they are exceptional in their field.”
Challenges for Immigrant Founders
For immigrant founders, the stakes are often higher. Ayda emphasized the importance of securing visa stability for key team members, particularly when raising venture capital. Investors want to know that your CTO or VP of Engineering won’t be forced to leave the country due to visa issues.
She also touched on the struggles Indian immigrants face with green card backlogs due to per-country caps. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ayda said. “Highly skilled professionals are waiting 10 to 15 years, tied to their companies with no real path to security.”
The Role of Creativity and Technology
Immigration law is a puzzle, and Ayda loves solving it. Whether it’s finding creative visa solutions for a fledgling startup or simplifying technical language for immigration officers, she thrives on the challenge.
Ayda also pointed out the inefficiencies in the current system, such as outdated processes and excessive reliance on paper. “Digitization could revolutionize immigration,” she said. “Imagine using blockchain or modern technology to speed up processing times.”
Advice for Aspiring Immigrants
When asked what advice she’d give to someone dreaming of building a life in the U.S., Ayda had a clear answer: “Start with a student visa. It’s the best way to get your foot in the door.” For those further along in their careers, she recommended leveraging international experience to secure opportunities in U.S.-based companies.
For entrepreneurs abroad, her advice was inspiring: “Build something extraordinary in your home country, gain recognition, and use that as a springboard to make your mark here.”
Final Thoughts
My conversation with Ayda was more than just a deep dive into immigration—it was a reminder of the resilience and creativity that fuels the immigrant experience. Ayda’s expertise and passion shine through in every story she shared.
If you’re an entrepreneur, a dreamer, or simply curious about what it takes to succeed in a globalized world, this episode is for you. Tune in to Better You by Neeraj and let Ayda inspire you to dream big and navigate the obstacles in your way.
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