USCIS Updates Rules for the International Entrepreneur Program
Categories: Business Law , Entrepreneurship
The USCIS has made changes to the International Entrepreneur Rule in its Policy Manual. The changes clarify the automatic increase in investment and revenue thresholds, which will now be adjusted every 3 years, and how the USCIS will go about coordinating biometric appointments for certain applicants. These adjustments, effective from October 1, 2024, reflect the Fiscal Year 2025 Final Rule published in July 2024, which sorts the automatic increases for applicants under the International Entrepreneur Program.
Key Updates:
Automatic Financial Adjustments: Beginning in Fiscal Year 2025, the required amounts for investment, revenue, and other financial benchmarks for applicants will be automatically increased. These new thresholds apply to applicants who filed on or after October 1, 2024. Details on the thresholds are as follows:
- The required investment from a qualifying investor is increasing from $264,147 to $311,071.
- For government awards or grants, the amount is going up from $105,659 to $124,429.
- The revenue threshold for re-parole consideration is rising from $528,293 to $622,142.
- To be considered a "qualified investor," an individual or organization must have invested at least $746,571 (up from $633,952) in start-ups over a 5-year period. Additionally, at least two of these start-ups must have created at least five jobs each or generated at least $622,142 in revenue (up from $528,293) with annual revenue growth of at least 20%.
Biometrics Appointment Coordination: The guidance also explains how USCIS will arrange biometrics appointments for conditionally approved applicants. This is especially relevant for those who are currently outside the United States or prefer to obtain their parole documentation at a U.S. embassy or consulate. USCIS confirms that it coordinates with the U.S. Department of State to facilitate these appointments.
These updates an also be found in Volume 3 of the USCIS Policy Manual and are effective immediately. Businesses and entrepreneurs considering the international Entrepreneur Program should be aware of these changes as they prepare their applications.
As this matter is subject to further update, we encourage our readers to check the website regularly for updates regarding immigration law.
Pasricha & Patel’s immigration department has extensive experience in handling business and personal immigration matter. Our team is happy to speak with you on your specific issues.