International Entrepreneur Rule | Parole for Startup Founders
Updated: July 25, 2025
By: Immigration Attorneys at Green Card Link
Understanding the International Entrepreneur Rule
The United States continues to thrive because of innovation from both American citizens and talented international entrepreneurs. Many foreign nationals help drive the U.S. economy forward by launching new technologies, building companies, creating jobs, and generating significant revenue.
To encourage this spirit of innovation, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) introduced the International Entrepreneur Rule (IER)—a special program designed to allow qualified international startup founders to enter and temporarily live in the U.S. to build and expand their businesses.
Originally proposed on August 26, 2016, this initiative aims to provide a legal pathway for international entrepreneurs who can demonstrate the potential for rapid business growth and job creation in the United States.
Why the International Entrepreneur Rule Matters
Traditional work visas such as the E-2 Investor Visa or H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa allow foreign professionals to work in the U.S., but they come with strict eligibility requirements and employer sponsorship obligations. Many innovative founders find themselves ineligible for these categories.
The International Entrepreneur Rule offers an alternative route—providing flexibility for entrepreneurs who do not meet the narrow qualifications of conventional work visas. Through this rule, approved entrepreneurs may enter the U.S. under parole status without needing a visa stamp, giving them a unique opportunity to develop their startups and contribute to the American economy.
Key Milestones of the International Entrepreneur Rule
- January 17, 2017: The proposed rule was officially published in the Federal Register, allowing for a 45-day public comment period.
- July 17, 2017: The rule was finalized, opening new opportunities for qualified foreign entrepreneurs to collaborate with U.S. innovators and stimulate national economic growth.
The policy’s purpose is clear — to attract and retain international founders who can help the U.S. remain a global leader in innovation, technology, and job creation.
Initial Entrepreneur Parole: Eligibility Requirements
Under this rule, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may, at its discretion, grant an initial 2-year parole period to eligible startup entrepreneurs. To qualify for this program, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Ownership and Role: The applicant must own at least 15% of the startup and play an active and essential role in its daily operations.
- Recent Formation: The startup must have been founded in the United States within the past three years.
- Entrepreneur Limit: No more than three entrepreneurs per startup may receive parole under this rule.
- Income Requirement: The entrepreneur must maintain a household income exceeding 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size, as defined by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- Proof of Growth Potential: The startup must demonstrate significant potential for rapid business expansion and job creation by meeting at least one of the following criteria:
- Receiving a minimum of $345,000 from qualified U.S. investors with a proven track record of successful investments;
- Receiving at least $100,000 in awards or grants from U.S. federal, state, or local government entities; or
- Presenting alternative evidence showing substantial potential for growth and job creation.
- Receiving a minimum of $345,000 from qualified U.S. investors with a proven track record of successful investments;
Application Steps for Entrepreneur Parole
- If you meet these qualifications, the process to apply for parole includes:
- Submitting Form I-941 — Application for Entrepreneur Parole — along with the $1,200 filing fee.
- Completing Biometrics: Attending a biometrics appointment (standard fee approximately $85).
Immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can assist with every stage of the application process, ensuring your submission meets all USCIS requirements.
Re-Parole and Maximum Duration
The total allowable period under the International Entrepreneur Rule is five years. After the initial two-year term, DHS may grant re-parole for up to three additional years if the entrepreneur continues to meet the program’s conditions.
If the application for re-parole is filed before the initial period expires and the entrepreneur remains in the U.S., approval will automatically extend lawful parole status. Entrepreneurs outside the U.S. at the time of approval must appear at a U.S. port of entry to receive re-parole.
To qualify for re-parole, applicants must demonstrate that:
- Their startup remains operational and continues to have strong growth and job-creation potential;
- They still own at least 15% of the company and play an essential management role; and
- Their business shows measurable success through one or more of the following:
- $500,000+ in new investments during the parole period;
- Annual revenue of at least $500,000 with an average yearly growth rate of 20% or more;
- Creation of at least 10 new full-time jobs for U.S. workers;
- Other supporting evidence demonstrating ongoing economic benefit to the United States.
Dependents of International Entrepreneur Parole Applicants
Spouses and dependents of an international entrepreneur seeking parole in the United States must file an Application for Travel Document (Form I-131) and provide all required biographical information and biometrics. In addition, spouses of international entrepreneurs may apply for work authorization to lawfully work in the U.S. during their authorized stay. However, it’s important to note that if the entrepreneur’s parole is terminated, the dependent’s employment authorization will also end automatically.
Dependents are granted lawful stay alongside the entrepreneur and must depart the United States when the parole period expires or is terminated. They may continue to remain in the country only if re-parole is approved and all related permits remain valid. Staying compliant with U.S. immigration laws and maintaining proper documentation is crucial to avoid any disruption to their legal status.
How Green Card Link Can Assist You
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys regularly assist international entrepreneurs and their families in navigating the complexities of the International Entrepreneur Parole process. The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link have a strong track record of helping startup founders and their dependents successfully obtain parole and related benefits.
If you wish to understand how this rule impacts you, your spouse, or your business, contact an immigration attorney at Green Card Link for a personalized consultation. During your session, you’ll receive comprehensive guidance tailored to your situation — empowering you to make informed decisions about your immigration options and the next steps toward building your future in the United States.