DHS Announces Continuation of International Entrepreneur Parole Program

In 2017, the Department of Homeland Security introduced the International Entrepreneur (IE) parole program, which was intended to allow foreign entrepreneurs to create and develop start-ups in the United States. This beneficial program was put into place to strengthen to our nation’s economy and encourage creativity and innovation. In 2018, the Department of Homeland Security put forth a notice of proposed rulemaking that would remove the IE program. Earlier this week, USCIS announced that the Department of Homeland Security is withdrawing that notice, allowing the IE program to continue in its original form.

According to the regulations, applicants can obtain parole for up to three entrepreneurs per start-up as well as their spouses and children. Accepted entrepreneurs have work authorization only for their start-up, and their spouses may apply for employment authorization. Children are not eligible for employment authorization based on this program.

USCIS encourages anyone eligible to take advantage of the program. Eligible individuals must:

1. 1. Demonstrate a substantial ownership interest in a start-up created in the U.S. in the last five years;
2. 2. Occupy a significant role within the start-up; and
3. 3. Show they will provide a significant public benefit to the U.S. through development of their start-up. Generally, this is shown by receipt of at least $250,000 from qualified U.S. investors or $100,000 in grants or awards from U.S. government entities. Start-ups that do not satisfy funding requirements can provide additional compelling evidence of their substantial potential for rapid growth and job creation.

Contact an attorney at Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan, P.C. if you have questions about whether you might qualify for parole under the International Entrepreneur parole program.