As of May 11, 2021, the Department of Homeland Security withdrew the proposed rule that would have eliminated the International Entrepreneur parole program.

What is the International Entrepreneur Parole Program?

The International Entrepreneur parole program grants a period of authorized stay to foreign entrepreneurs who are able to show that their stay in the U.S. would provide a significant benefit through their start-up.

Where are those granted parole allowed to work?

Those granted parole under this program are only allowed to work for their start-up business.

Who is eligible to apply for parole under this rule?

Entrepreneurs who are seeking parole under this rule must show that they:[1]

  • Possess a substantial ownership interest in a start-up entity created within the past five years in the United States that has substantial potential for rapid growth and job creation.
  • Have a central and active role in the start-up entity such that they are well-positioned to substantially assist with the growth and success of the business.
  • Will provide a significant public benefit to the United States based on their role as an entrepreneur of the start-up entity by showing that:
  • The start-up entity has received a significant investment of capital from certain qualified U.S. investors with established records of successful investments;
  • The start-up entity has received significant awards or grants for economic development, research and development, or job creation (or other types of grants or awards typically given to start-up entities) from federal, state, or local government entities that regularly provide such awards or grants to start-up entities; or
  • They partially meet either or both of the previous two requirements and provide additional reliable and compelling evidence of the start-up entity’s substantial potential for rapid growth and job creation.
  • Otherwise merit a favorable exercise of discretion.

Spouses and children of entrepreneurs are also usually eligible for parole.

If you would like to apply for the International Entrepreneur Parole Program, have additional questions about it, or have other immigration questions, contact an attorney at ILBSG today.

[1] https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/humanitarian-parole/international-entrepreneur-parole

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