The International Entrepreneur Parole  (IEP) is a program that allows certain entrepreneurs to come to the United States for up to 30 months to start or grow their businesses. The program is intended to provide a way for foreign entrepreneurs to bring their innovative ideas and business models to the United States to create jobs and promote economic growth. Each application is considered on a personal basis, and each applicant must demonstrate that their presence in the U.S. would have substantial economic benefits. 

Entrepreneurs who meet the eligibility criteria and successfully navigate the application process can take advantage of this program to temporarily enter and remain in the United States to develop and grow their startups. It's a pilot program and not a guaranteed way to enter the U.S, and entrepreneurs should consult with an immigration attorney before applying to the program.

Who Qualifies for International Entrepreneur Parole?

An entrepreneur must meet the following criteria in order to apply for an IEP:

  • At least 10% ownership interest  in a U.S. start-up or company
  • Active/central role in the company
  • Demonstrate start-up potential for rapid growth/job creation
  • Your startup has received at least $264,147  from qualified U.S. investors or at least $105,659 in government awards or grants
  • The company must have received investments from  investors based in the U.S.
  • Personal net-worth of $250,000 USD 
  • Equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree 

*If the start-up cannot meet the full monetary requirements, you can demonstrate growth opportunity through other documentation. 

How To Apply for International Entrepreneur Parole

Once an entrepreneur has met these criteria, they can apply for IEP through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application process includes submitting a detailed business plan, financial projections, and the following forms. 

If the application is approved, the entrepreneur will be granted a parole status for a period of up to 2.5 years. Once approved, the entrepreneur may apply for a 2.5 year extension for a total of 5 years in the U.S. During this time, the entrepreneur can enter and remain in the United States to develop and grow their startup. They may also apply for work authorization and travel documents. 

It's important to note that International Entrepreneur Parole does not provide a path to permanent residency or citizenship. Also, it is a discretionary and pilot program and not a guaranteed way to enter the U.S. The program may be extended, terminated, or modified at any time at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security.

Frequently Asked Questions About International Entrepreneur Parole

What are the limitations of an International Entrepreneur Parole?

  • While in the U.S. on an IEP, the entrepreneur can only work for the start-up through which you applied. 
  • Approval under the IEP program is discretionary. 
  • You can only remain in the U.S. for a maximum of 5 years (if granted an extension). The initial IEP is only valid for 2.5 years, and an extension is not guaranteed. 
  • Under the IEP, you are granted entry as a “parolee” and this entry can be terminated or revoked by the Department of Homeland Security at any time. 
  • You cannot change from IEP status to a different status directly from within the U.S.
  • An IEP is not a path to permanent residency in the U.S.

Can I extend an International Entrepreneur Parole?

Yes, an entrepreneur can apply for an additional 2.5 months for a maximum stay of 5 years if the following criteria are met. 

  • The business continues to operate
  • The entrepreneur retains at least 5% ownership interest in the business 
  • The entrepreneur continues to have an essential and central role in the business
  • The business has met one of the following criteria: 
    • Created 5 qualifying jobs; or 
    • Received at least $500,000 in qualifying investments, government grants or awards; or 
    • Generated at least $500,000 in U.S. revenue and averaged 20% annual growth

Can the Entrepreneur’s Family enter the U.S. on International Entrepreneur Parole?

If granted, the entrepreneur is allowed to bring their spouse/children to the U.S. Upon arrival, the spouse can apply for work authorization and children can attend school.

Final Thoughts On International Entrepreneur Parole

In conclusion, the International Entrepreneur Parole (IEP) is a program that allows certain entrepreneurs to come to the United States for up to 2.5 years to start or grow their businesses. The program is intended to provide a way for foreign entrepreneurs to bring their innovative ideas and business models to the United States to create jobs and promote economic growth. In order to qualify for the IEP program, entrepreneurs must meet certain criteria, including having at least 10% ownership interest in a U.S. start-up or company, having a active/central role in the company, demonstrating start-up potential for rapid growth/job creation, having received investment from qualified U.S. investors or government awards or grants, having a personal net-worth of $250,000 USD, and having the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree. The application process for IEP includes submitting a detailed business plan, financial projections, and various forms and fees to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It is important to note that the IEP program does not provide a path to permanent residency or citizenship and it is a discretionary and pilot program, meaning it may be extended, terminated, or modified at any time by the Department of Homeland Security.