[anigbrowl]

'Illegal aliens' don't have permission to accept employment, but in most cases it's perfectly legitimate to carry on business as long as you pay your taxes. I don't think legal residency in the US is a prerequisite to obtaining a business license in most states, not least because many US companies are owned by people who live elsewhere.

[bigiain]

Not just "illegal aliens" either, when I visit the US from Australia, I use the visa waiver program - which prohibits me from accepting (or even seeking) employment while there. (and I'm fine with that)