[cryptophile]

To some extent, you may still need to be physically present in the US/Silicon Valley in order to join in on some of the startup fun. However, it is often possible to do that without moving over.

I personally only participate in a startup, if I don't have to come over. It is expensive over there and your simple living expenses will add to the burn rate of the startup's seed capital; in addition to having to face unpleasant bureaucracy concerning your attempts at immigration.

There are just too many people who are desperate to move there and who are not bringing anything that the local population would be interested in.

Why not pick a cheap and easy country to live in, and work remotely with your colleagues from all over the world? Why physically move to the US/Silicon Valley?