The $100,000 Question: Is Your American Dream Worth Your Entire Seed Round?

For years, the United States has been seen as the ultimate destination for ambitious entrepreneurs. But for international founders, the reality has become increasingly uncertain. A recent proposal from the President Donald Trump administration to charge companies a staggering $100,000 fee to sponsor an H-1B visa has created chaos and sent a chilling message to the world's innovators. On 20th of September, Donald Trump signed a proclamation that adds a $100,000 fee for new applicants for H-1B visas that allow foreign workers like software engineers a chance to be employed in the United States.

For a start-up founder, this isn't just a policy change. It's a direct threat to their venture. That $100,000 is your seed funding, your runway and ability to hire and build. This fee is a core part of a broader strategy to make the entire US "talent pipeline more difficult than it's ever been".

Immigration experts have labelled this move an "attempted entry ban against highly educated workers," predicting it is unlawful and unlikely to survive a legal challenge in court. Silicon Valley, on the other hand, said they were concerned that they would be disproportionately hurt by the new visa fee for skilled foreign workers, given their limited resources. The policy was rolled out so sloppily and hastily that it caused a "ton of chaos," with even federal agencies left confused and current visa holders abroad initially scrambling in panic. While the US immigration system becomes more "intimidating," the Netherlands offers a clear, stable, and welcoming alternative designed specifically for ambitious founders like you.

Why is the Netherlands the Smarter Choice for Your Start-up?

While the US debates policies that could cause "permanent damage" to its economy, the Netherlands provides a secure and fertile ground for your business to grow. Here’s why it’s the superior choice:

Invest in Your Business, Not a Broken System:

The proposed $100,000 fee is a direct tax on innovation. In the Netherlands, the Start-up Visa program is built to empower founders. Instead of burning resources on endless paperwork or legal uncertainty, you can invest directly in scaling your company, hiring talent, and launching your innovation.

Avoid Extreme Uncertainty and Legal Battles: 

The legality of the US fee is highly questionable, guaranteeing a prolonged legal fight. The Dutch process, on the other hand, is clear, transparent, and designed for entrepreneurs. You know what to expect from day one.

Join a Truly Welcoming Ecosystem: 

The US is sending a clear signal that even the most talented individuals are "not fully welcome". Many H-1B holders in the US are critical to small start-ups, yet they face an uncertain future.The Netherlands offers more than a visa. It offers a launchpad. With access to Europe’s single market, a highly skilled workforce, and supportive facilitators like The Unusual Space, you’re not just allowed to enter, you’re encouraged to succeed.

Focus on Your Vision, Not Bureaucratic Chaos: 

The chaotic implementation of the US policy highlights a deeply unstable environment. Your time and energy are too valuable to be wasted on uncertainty. The Netherlands provides a stable environment where you can dedicate yourself to what really matters: building your vision and bringing your ideas to life. 

With The Unusual Space, you get a streamlined, predictable process. We handle the complexities of your move, allowing you to dedicate your energy to innovation and growth, not navigating confusing and hostile regulations.

Contact The Unusual Space today to discover how the Dutch Start-up Visa can provide the stable launchpad your startup needs.