[abbasmehdi]

Well look at why one gets equity - to compensate for risk. What is risk? Not having money tomorrow to be getting paid. Well you are taking risk according to that definition, but no equity in return. This is one problem, but not the end of the world. Also, giving you equity is going to get them in trouble with the law, and future investors. So giving you equity is stupid for them. So how to compensate you for your risk? Cash money. Ask them for above market, in back pay if you're interested and trust them - walk if you don't.

Get them to sign a contract in your country of origin - so fighting you in court becomes expensive for them. Or maybe in a state far from them within the US.