1. What is U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole?

U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole is a U.S. government program that allows foreign entrepreneurs to temporarily stay in the United States to work on their startup companies. It enables eligible entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses in the United States, bringing capital, jobs, and innovative ideas to the U.S. economy. To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate that their venture has substantial potential for rapid growth and job creation. They must also demonstrate a significant public benefit from the venture’s launch or growth in the U.S. Additionally, applicants must meet certain criteria such as having a substantial ownership stake in the startup and being well-positioned to advance the venture’s growth.

2. What types of entrepreneurs are eligible for the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program?

The U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program is designed to encourage foreign entrepreneurs who have a significant role in the growth of new and innovative businesses in the United States to come to the U.S. to grow their businesses. To be eligible for the program, the entrepreneur must have:

• Invested or is in the process of investing substantial, capital into a start-up entity formed in the United States;
• Possesses knowledge, skills, or experience that makes him/her essential to the growth and success of the entity;
• Presents significant public benefit potential from his/her business activities in the United States;
• Demonstrates potential for rapid business growth and job creation; and
• Has not been convicted of a felony or three or more misdemeanors.

3. How do I apply for the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program?

To apply for the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program, applicants must submit Form I-941, International Entrepreneur Parole Request. This form must be completed and filed together with supporting evidence such as business plans, evidence of capital investments, and other materials. Applicants must also pay a $1,200 filing fee. Additionally, applicants may also need to submit additional evidence such as biometric information and background checks.

4. What criteria must an entrepreneur meet to qualify for the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program?

Under the International Entrepreneur Parole program, entrepreneurs must meet the following criteria to qualify:
* Possess a significant ownership stake in a start-up entity that was formed in the United States within the past three years.
* Have a central and active role in the entity’s operations.
* Demonstrate substantial potential for rapid business growth and job creation.
* Have received at least $250,000 in investment capital from certain qualified U.S. investors, or at least $100,000 in grants from certain federal, state, or local government entities.

5. What documents do I need to provide when applying for the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program?

When applying for the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program, you must provide proof of your identity, proof of entrepreneurial activity, proof of sufficient capital to start or grow a business in the US, and evidence of a business plan. Additionally, you must submit all relevant supporting documents such as travel documents, evidence of financial resources, business formation documents, and any other relevant documents that may be relevant to your application.

6. Who can provide a credible letter of support when applying for the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program?

A credible letter of support when applying for the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program can come from a wide variety of individuals or organizations, including potential customers, investors, or other business partners; current or former employers; government officials; and trade associations. Additionally, a qualified economic expert may provide a credible letter of support that outlines the foreign entrepreneur’s significant potential to create or preserve jobs in the United States.

7. How long is the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole valid for?

The U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole is valid for up to 30 months.

8. Do I need to secure any investments prior to applying for the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program?

No, you do not need to secure any investments prior to applying for the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program. However, you must show evidence of substantial and qualified capital investments that have been made or will be made in the business.

9. What is the estimated processing time for applications to the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program?

The estimated processing time for applications to the U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole program is approximately 5-7 months.

10. Are there any special considerations for entrepreneurs who are already in the U.S.?

Yes, entrepreneurs who are already in the U.S. must take into consideration any existing visa restrictions, as well as applicable state and federal business regulations, including tax laws. Additionally, they should research the local market to understand any potential challenges or restrictions they may face. They should also consider their legal status and ensure that they are in compliance with all applicable immigration laws.

11. Are there any special considerations for entrepreneurs who are from certain countries?

Yes, depending on which countries the entrepreneur is from, there may be certain considerations to take into account. For example, an entrepreneur from a developing country may need to take into account cultural limitations when entering a new market. Many countries have laws that govern foreign investment, and entrepreneurs should research these laws to make sure they comply with them when starting a business. Additionally, some countries may require visas or other special paperwork for entrepreneurs to operate legally in that country.

12. How does U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole affect my status as a permanent resident or immigrant?

U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole does not affect a permanent resident or immigrant’s status. This parole is a discretionary benefit offered to certain individuals who are established business owners, investors, or entrepreneurs and may be granted for a period of up to five years. It is not an immigration status or pathway to a green card and does not directly lead to permanent residency.

13. What rights and privileges do I have as a U.S International Entrepreneur Parolee?

As a U.S International Entrepreneur Parolee, you may be eligible for certain rights and privileges including:

• The ability to operate and develop a business in the U.S.

• The ability to legally stay in and travel to the U.S.

• The ability to access certain government resources to help develop your business

• The ability to apply for certain visa and immigration status based on your entrepreneurial activities

• The ability to receive investments into your business from U.S. investors

• The ability to hire and employ workers (in certain cases)

• The ability to access certain funding sources, such as Small Business Administration (SBA) financing programs

• The ability to potentially adjust your immigration status after two years of successful business operations

14. Do I need to obtain a work visa in addition to my U.S International Entrepreneur Parole?

No. The International Entrepreneur Parole does not require a separate work visa. If you are a foreign national who meets the eligibility criteria for the IEP, you may apply for the parole and begin work in the US after it is granted.

15. Can I travel outside of the U.S while on U.S International Entrepreneur Parole?

No, you are not allowed to travel outside the U.S. while on U.S. International Entrepreneur Parole.

16. Can my family accompany me on U.S International Entrepreneur Parole?

No, family members cannot accompany an individual on an International Entrepreneur Parole.

17. Can I change my status from U.S International Entrepreneur Parole to something else while in the US?

No. Once your status expires, you must exit the US. You may be eligible to apply for a different immigration status such as an H-1B visa, but you would need to do so from outside the US.

18. Are there any special considerations when hiring foreign employees as part of my business while on U.S International Entrepreneur Parole?

Yes. You must ensure that the foreign employees you hire are legally authorized to work in the United States. You must also comply with all applicable U.S laws, including federal and state labor and employment laws. Additionally, if the foreign employee is on an F-1 Visa, you must ensure that the employee is in valid F-1 status and is eligible to be employed.

19. Can I bring foreign equipment or technology into the US while on US International Entrepreneur Parole?

No. Foreign equipment and technology cannot be brought into the US while on US International Entrepreneur Parole.

20. Are there any additional fees or taxes associated with obtaining and maintaining a US International entrepreneur parole visa?

Yes, all visa holders must pay a visa application processing fee. Additionally, if you need to renew your visa, an additional fee may apply. Depending on your location, there may be additional taxes or fees applicable to your situation.