From College Dropout to O-1A Visa: Atharva Vaidya's Journey

Atharva’s career trajectory reads like a roadmap of global tech hubs. With nearly a decade of experience in software development, he has worked across continents, from Europe to South America and now the United States. His technical expertise spans full-stack development, mobile engineering, and AI infrastructure—a rare combination that has made him an asset to every company he’s worked with.

His early years saw him mastering iOS development, working with companies like Revolut, Journi, and Structure Financial. At Structure, he didn’t just write code—he built and led a mobile engineering team while designing core backend systems. His ability to bridge the gap between software engineering and product development set him apart, and soon, bigger opportunities came knocking.

From Engineer to Entrepreneur

In 2025, Atharva co-founded Compiler Inc., an AI infrastructure startup based in San Francisco. The transition from employee to entrepreneur was not just about changing job titles—it was about solving larger, more complex problems. With AI reshaping industries, Compiler Inc. is focused on building scalable infrastructure for AI applications, ensuring that businesses can integrate advanced models without friction.

But building a company in the U.S. as a non-citizen isn’t just about having a great idea. It requires navigating the complex maze of immigration laws—something Atharva was about to experience firsthand.

The O-1A Visa: A Gateway for Exceptional Talent

The O-1A visa is notoriously selective. Designed for individuals with "extraordinary ability" in their field, it requires extensive documentation, proof of impact, and recognition from industry leaders. While the process is challenging, it offers a unique opportunity for top-tier professionals to work and innovate in the U.S.

For Atharva, the decision to pursue the O-1A visa was clear—his skill set and achievements positioned him as a strong candidate. But the journey was far from easy.

The Application Process: A Deep Dive

Atharva’s O-1A application process started with research. He evaluated various service providers and ultimately worked with a firm specializing in tech-focused O-1A cases. The process required him to provide extensive evidence of his contributions to the industry, including:

- Publications and media coverage highlighting his work

- Reference letters from industry experts

- Patents and proprietary software contributions

- Awards and recognitions

- Leadership roles and significant impact at past companies

Given his diverse experience—spanning startups, leadership roles, and technical contributions—Atharva had a compelling case. However, assembling the application was still an intensive process.

One of the biggest challenges was proving "extraordinary ability" in a field as competitive as software engineering. While he had worked on high-impact projects and led teams, U.S. immigration authorities required more—his influence on the industry had to be well-documented and widely recognized.

Lessons from the Process

1. Start Early: The O-1A process requires extensive documentation, and gathering letters of recommendation, media mentions, and technical contributions takes time.

2. Choose the Right Legal Team: Immigration attorneys specializing in O-1A cases can make a huge difference in crafting a strong petition.

3. Demonstrate Industry Impact: It’s not just about what you’ve built but how it has shaped the industry. Open-source contributions, patents, and leadership roles are key.

4. Network Strategically:** Having industry leaders vouch for your work significantly strengthens the application.

The Road Ahead

With his O-1A visa approved, Atharva is now focused on scaling Compiler Inc. His mission is to revolutionize AI infrastructure, making advanced AI models accessible to startups and enterprises alike. The visa has not just given him legal status in the U.S.; it has provided him the freedom to innovate at the highest level.

For aspiring entrepreneurs and engineers looking to break into the U.S. market, Atharva’s journey is a testament to what’s possible. The path is demanding, but for those who dare to take it, the rewards are unparalleled.

As the world becomes more interconnected, talent will continue to move beyond borders. And individuals like Atharva will be leading the way, proving that expertise, innovation, and persistence can open doors—even the ones that seem hardest to unlock.

View his full interview on X here.