No Degree? No E-2 Capital? How the IEPR Can Still Get Your Startup to the U.S.

There's a visa pathway for startup founders that almost no one talks about. Only about 100 people apply for it each year. Here's what it is:

It's called the International Entrepreneur Parole Rule.

If you founded a startup within the last five years and have received at least $313,000 in qualified investment from US investors—or significant government grants—you can apply for parole to stay in the United States for two and a half years.

During that time, you can travel in and out of the USA. You can build your business. And if things go well, you can renew for another two and a half years. From there, you can pursue a green card through the PERM process.

I'm working with someone right now who fits this profile. She doesn't have a degree. She can't apply for an L-1A executive visa because she will close up the foreign business when she comes to the USA. She doesn't have her own capital for an E-2. She did not attend university in the United States, so CPT or OPT are not available. The entrepreneur parole rule is her only option, but it can help her achieve her goals. 

Here's why I think so many immigrant founders succeed:

They gave up their family, their home, and their comfort zone because they believed so strongly in their ideas. That's not the easy path. It's the risky path. And that willingness to take risks is exactly what entrepreneurship requires.

Is this pathway easy? No. It's document-heavy and requires advanced planning. But it's there—and it's underutilized.

Don't wait for an employer to make your US dreams come true-- get there on your own terms.

Are you a founder exploring your visa options? What's been your biggest challenge? you can reach out and Call (949) 940-6725, or book a consultation online to speak with one of our experienced immigration attorneys.

DISCLAIMER: This post does not constitute legal advice, or make any guarantees as to a potential outcome. Consult with a qualified, licensed immigration attorney about the facts of your case before proceeding.