Entrepreneur Parole Program for U.S. Start-Up Businesses

USCIS announces International Entrepreneur Parole Program May 10, 2021.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a notice on May 10, 2021, that it would roll back the rules imposed by the previous administration regarding international foreign entrepreneurs. The International Entrepreneur Parole Program will benefit the foreigners who can make the case to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services that their stay on these grounds will have public benefit through their business venture, investment, and more.

Under these rules, international entrepreneurs who obtain approval can work in the United States only for their start-up business. The family members of the principal applicant may also qualify to obtain parole. Spouses of the main applicants can work in the United States after receiving the employment authorization from the USCIS. Granted parole may be allowed for up to three entrepreneurs per start-up entity.

Some of the criteria to qualify for international entrepreneurs are:

  • Hold a high percentage ownership interest in a start-up entity created in the past five years in the United States, which has potential for growth and job creation.
  • Should have a central role in a start-up entity.
  • Their entity will provide significant public benefit to the United States
  • Their entity has received awards or grants for economic and research development.

If the application for international entrepreneurs is approved, the applicant should apply for the visa at the U.S. consulate abroad before coming to the U.S. Canadian citizens traveling directly from Canada to the U.S. must present an approval notice without visiting the U.S. consulate. The principal applicant and the family members may qualify to obtain advance parole to travel abroad. Children do not qualify for employment based on parole. 

We Can Help

Consult with immigration legal counsel before traveling abroad if you have specific issues or questions and to make sure you have the latest information. Migration Resource Center has the experience and know-how to resolve your immigration issues, whether you’re an individual living in the United States, a business employing foreign nationals, or an individual looking to work and live in the United States. Clients turn to us for assistance with even their most complicated and sensitive immigration matters.

If you have immigration issues or questions, we can help! Please contact us at (646) 609-8805 or use our webform to schedule a free immigration consultation.