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The USCIS International Entrepreneur Parole (IEP) Program is designed to empower global innovators to create and grow their businesses in the United States, ultimately fueling economic growth. By providing a pathway for foreign entrepreneurs to enter and work in the United States, the program aims to attract and retain the world’s top talent and create jobs for U.S. workers.
Through the program, eligible foreign entrepreneurs are granted “parole” to temporarily stay in the United States to develop and grow their businesses. This allows them to access the resources and networks necessary to accelerate their growth and scale their operations. Additionally, the program provides opportunities for collaboration and knowledge-sharing with other entrepreneurs and industry leaders in the United States.
The program benefits the U.S. economy by creating jobs and stimulating economic growth in a variety of industries. By attracting top global talent, the program also contributes to the development of new technologies and industries that can drive innovation and competitiveness in the United States.
Overall, IEP represents a significant step forward in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation, while also benefiting the U.S. economy and creating opportunities for global collaboration and growth.
To be eligible for the program, an entrepreneur must have a significant ownership stake (5% or more) in a startup that has been formed within the past five years and has the potential for high growth and job creation. The entrepreneur must also play an active role in the management of the startup and have a substantial and demonstrated role in the startup’s success.
The entrepreneur must submit an application and provide evidence that the startup meets certain eligibility criteria, such as having received a certain level of investment from qualified U.S. investors, or having received grants or awards from certain government entities.
If the application is approved, the entrepreneur can be granted parole, which allows them to temporarily stay in the United States for up to five years to work on their startup. During this time, the entrepreneur can also bring their spouse and children under the age of 21 to the United States.
It is important to note that parole is not permanent immigration status, and the entrepreneur and their family members must depart the United States when the parole period ends, unless they are able to obtain another type of immigration status.
IEP was introduced in 2017, and it is designed to provide an alternative path to U.S. immigration for entrepreneurs who may not qualify for other types of visas or green cards.
Resources: https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/international-entrepreneur-parole
This article is provided as an educational service and is not legal advice. Consult with an attorney for your specific circumstances. For a comprehensive evaluation of your immigration situation and options, you are invited to call us at 214-393-4917 or complete our contact form on this website.