SaaStr guide for international founders

Hey there,

Aizada here.

SaaStr Annual 2025 is coming up quickly, May 13-15th in the San Francisco Bay Area.

It's the ultimate B2B event of the year, and if you're a founder like me, you won't want to miss it.

And no, I'm not just talking about seeing the CEOs of HubSpot, Snowflake, OpenAI, and Dropbox in person.

I'm talking about what this could mean for YOU.

Whether you're in AI or SaaS, SaaStr is where you'll make connections that could change your startup's path.

It's also a stepping stone to building your future in the U.S. (hello, O-1A visa opportunities).

I get it, you're thinking, "Okay, Aizada, SaaStr sounds great, but what's really in it for me?"

From the advisor himself:

It's about turning those 1-on-1 meetings, braindates, and networking events into momentum for your startup's growth.

For international founders, this is gold.

But you need to network smart and leverage your time there for immigration goals too.

Whether you need to build influence or prove "extraordinary ability" for an O-1A visa, SaaStr gives you the platform to make it happen.

If you're not familiar with the Best of SaaStr, it’s a curated collection of the most impactful moments from the SaaStr ecosystem, including:

Let's talk logistics. If this is your first SaaStr, come prepared.

I have a full-blown guide ready for you!!

This is where you need to focus.

SaaStr is all about connecting with the right people.

Use the networking app for founders and execs to set up 1-on-1 meetings ahead of time. Figure out who you want to meet and lock those meetings in early.

Try Braindates too, these intimate sessions let you dive deep with a small group who care about the same things you do.

If you're thinking about funding, don't skip the Founder-VC Brunch. Trust me on this one.

Want to know how to get invited? Check this out.

If you’re visiting the U.S. on a B-1 visa - especially for events like SaaStr — it’s important to know what’s allowed and what crosses the line.

The B-1 is a “business visitor” visa. That means you’re here for meetings, not money.

The line is simple: You can talk, meet, and explore. You can’t transact, earn, or operate.

Use your time to build relationships, gather insights, and plan your next move, especially if you’re thinking about building in the U.S. long-term.

The earlier you understand what’s possible, the easier it is to build toward it.

If your B-1 trip is more than just a visit, if you’re thinking about raising, hiring, or building in the U.S., you should understand how this trip could be the start of something bigger.

The O-1A visa is built for founders, engineers, researchers, and operators with a track record of impact.

And yes, if you’re in the U.S. on a B-1, you can apply for an O-1A without leaving the country.

Here’s how it works:

• You must file while your B-1 status is still valid.

• You submit Form I-129 with evidence of your extraordinary ability media, awards, letters, speaking, etc.

What matters is how you use your time here:

• Speak at panels or host a Braindate

• Get featured in event recaps or tech press

• Collect letters from U.S. investors and operators

• Document your role in pitch events, competitions, or mentorship sessions

All of this can become part of your O-1A petition.

The key is to stay compliant while you gather evidence and to file before your B-1 expires.

If this trip is your first step toward U.S. expansion, let’s make it count.

We can help you turn this visit into a real strategy.

DM us to talk through your timeline, options, and what’s realistic.

Want to know more? Let's talk O-1A at the event!

I'll be there and happy to chat about getting your U.S. journey started.

Stay resilient,
Aizada