I’m Arooj from Pakistan, currently living in Rhode Island on a marriage-based green card. I want to start a small online clothing business. Am I allowed to run a business as a green card holder?

Yes, green card holders are allowed to start and operate businesses in the U.S. You don’t need special permission to launch a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation.

You’ll still need to follow state and federal rules, like registering your business name, getting any required licenses, and reporting income when you file your taxes. Immigration status doesn’t affect your eligibility to become self-employed.

Running a business will not affect your green card as long as you comply with the law and pay taxes properly. If you plan to apply for naturalization later, USCIS will expect clean financial and tax records as part of your good moral character review.