You could go for the E2 with about $100,000 in investment.
So Waiver the YC and then E2 when you get investment. Or B visa and change status once you have funding.
Best talking to a lawyer though I think.
Best of luck!!!
I read here: http://www.workpermit.com/us/employer_b1_b2.htm
/start quote
The following activities require a working visa, and may not be carried out by business visitors:
Running a business. "Gainful employment", Payment by an organization within the US, Participating as a professional in entertainment or sporting events,
/end quote
Wouldn't a startup count as Running a business?
I've read, A foreign national can easily start a business in US. But, B1 Visas doesn't seem to allow running a business. :Confused:
Best to ask a lawyer :)
you can incorporate in the US, and from what I understand, once you have the corp you have more options to apply for visas, such as the H1B, O, E, ... visas .. you will still need a US person to be involved with the corp such that they can sign for you (that is what I've been told).
but the best thing to do here is talk to a lawyer - I'm not a lawyer, and I can't give any legal advice ...