What is the International Entrepreneur Rule?

The International Entrepreneur Rule (IER) is a special progra...way for you to start living and working in the United States.

Here’s how it works: If you’ve started a business within the ...hat lets you and your family stay in the country temporarily.

The International Entrepreneur Rule is a great option for inn...to life in the U.S., but don’t qualify for traditional visas.

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International Entrepreneur Rule Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the International Entrepreneur Rule (IER), you'll need to meet several key requirements:

Ownership Stake: You must own at least 10% of your startup wh... maintain at least a 5% ownership stake throughout your stay.

Recent Startup: Your business must have been founded within the last five years before you submit your application.

Significant U.S. Investment or Funding: Your startup needs to...ocal government entities in the U.S., you could also qualify.

Growth Potential: You'll need to demonstrate that your busine...plan, evidence of scaling quickly, or other signs of success.

Active Role: You must play a central and active role in your ...e day-to-day operations and overall direction of the company.

If you meet these requirements, you can apply for "parole" un...n to extend your stay for an additional two and a half years.

Evidence for International Entrepreneur Rule: Complete List of Documents

When you apply for the International Entrepreneur Rule (IER),...ubmit any other evidence that you believe supports your case.

Keep in mind: USCIS might also use open-source information to verify the evidence you provide.

Here’s a complete list of the key documents to prepare when applying under the International Entrepreneur Rule:

How to Apply as an Entrepreneur

If you're an entrepreneur looking to apply for the Internatio...with filing Form I-941, Application for Entrepreneur Parole .

Here’s a breakdown of how to navigate the application process:

Step 1: File Form I-941

To get started, you'll need to complete and file Form I-941, which is the official application for entrepreneur parole.

Step 2: Gather and Include Your Documents

Alongside Form I-941, include any supporting documents that d...as received significant U.S. investment or government grants.

Step 3: Submit the Filing Fee

Along with the form, you’ll need to submit a filing fee of $1,200.

Step 4: Send Your Completed Form

You'll send your completed form and documents to the USCIS Dallas Lockbox facility.

If you’re using the U.S. Postal Service, the Form I-941 mailing address is:

USCIS

Attn: IER (PO Box 650890)

Dallas, TX 75265

For FedEx, UPS, or DHL deliveries, the Form I-941 mailing address is:

USCIS

Attn: IER (Box 650890)

2501 S. State Highway 121 Business, Suite 400

Lewisville, TX 75067

How to Apply as Spouse or Child of an Entrepreneur

If your spouse or parent is applying for the International En... can also apply to join them through a process called parole.

Here's how you can apply:

Step 1: File Form I-131, Application for Travel Document

To request parole to accompany or join your entrepreneur fami...the same time as the entrepreneur's Form I-941 or separately.

The filing fee for each family member is $630 , and it’s impo...131 cannot be filed online—you must mail a paper application.

When filling out Form I-131, make sure to:

• Write “IER” in the margin of Part 2, Application Type .
• If filing after the entrepreneur’s Form I-941, include the r...ber from their application in Part 3, Processing Information .
• Specify where you want to receive your travel document by ch...Item 1 and completing the corresponding sections in Part 3 .

Step 2: Submit Required Documents

You’ll need to submit evidence that proves your relationship to the entrepreneur. This can include:

• A copy of your marriage certificate (for spouses) or birth certificate (for children).
• If the entrepreneur’s Form I-941 has already been filed, inc...zation for Parole, or a Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record.

Step 3: Mail Your Application

Mail the completed Form I-131, filing fee, and supporting documents to the USCIS Dallas Lockbox address listed in the Form I-131 instructions.

Extending Your Stay with Re-Parole

If you’re approaching the end of your initial parole period, ...ou need to demonstrate why you still need to stay in the U.S.

To apply for re-parole, submit your application before your c..., educational achievements, or other community contributions.

After five years of parole and any re-parole periods, you hav...ecoming a lawful permanent resident if you meet the criteria.

Alternatively, you may explore other ways to secure long-term...ns and make sure you’re on track with all legal requirements.

Book a free consultation with Keller Law. Our team will ens...eligibility requirements and help you gather evidence needed.

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International Entrepreneur Rule Processing Time

The processing time for IER applications can vary based on se...ns USCIS is handling and the completeness of your submission.

While the entire process can vary widely, it’s generally expe...u file your application to when you receive a final decision.

The initial processing and review for IER applications can ta...onths, depending on how many applications are ahead of yours.

If your application meets the initial eligibility requirement...ty of appointments and the time required for security checks.

After the conditional approval and any required steps are com...ase and any additional documentation that might be requested.

International Entrepreneur Rule Costs

The main cost is the filing fee for Form I-941, Application for Entrepreneur Parole, which is $1,200 .

If your spouse or unmarried children under 21 are applying to...on for Travel Document. The fee for each Form I-131 is $630 .

While hiring an immigration attorney isn’t required, it can b...gate the complexities of the International Entrepreneur Rule.

Book a free consultation to learn more.

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