Seeking Immigration Lawyer and CPA for H1B Visa Holder

[Brandon Leong]

Hello,

I'm looking for an Immigration Lawer and a CPA to assist me in setting up myself on the legal/tax side of things. I've been calling around so far and I've found people that know about immigration law but not taxes and vice versa. 

Here's my situation,

I'm currently on an H1B Visa. I'm hoping to start investing in real-estate. From what I read, starting an LLC is the best way to protect my assets and well as give me tax advantages. I am thinking about forming one with my partner who is a US citizen.

However, my status as an H1B holder does complicate things. I’ve done a lot of reading and have found that I am only allowed to passively invest in an LLC (even if it's my own). However, the definition of "passive" escapes me and there seems to be no concrete definition.

I do not want to risk my status or possibility of delaying my green card application.

I was hoping that someone can help me shed some light on my situation and how I can proceed in the best possible manner. I've read that buying it under my own name is a viable option since having an LLC doesn't mean that I necessarily pay less in taxes, however, umbrella insurance is not necessarily bullet-proof (see podcast 197 w/ Brandon Hall) and an LLC seems to be best in this regard, especially with a partner.

Does anyone have any referrals on who I should contact about this?