DHS Allows Foreign Start-Ups to Come to U.S.

The Department of Homeland Security recently announced a change in policy for entrepreneurs from foreign countries. Beginning July 17, 2017, founders of start-up companies will be permitted to submit an application to bring their start-up to the United States on the basis that they will enhance the growth of the economy and creates new jobs. The rule will allow approximately 2,940 eligible entrepreneurs to bring their start-up to the United States. Each individual start-up will allow up to three entrepreneurs per company to be accepted into the program.

The Department of Homeland Security will allow each accepted entrepreneur to stay in the United states for an initial 30 months. If they meet specific criteria designated by the DHS, they may extend their stay for a maximum of an additional 30 months. The start-up founders who are accepted will also be permitted to bring their spouses and children to the United States. Spouses of accepted entrepreneurs would be able to apply for work authorization during the time they spend here. Please note that children of entrepreneurs in this program will not be permitted to obtain work authorization while they are in the United States.

In order to be considered for this program, the applicant must have a significant ownership in this start-up. The company must have been started only within the last 5 years and must show that there is potential to grow rapidly and create a large number of jobs in the United States.

If you have questions about this ruling, contact us today.

If you are in need of experienced legal counsel for matters regarding immigration, please contact the Law Offices of Salvatore A. Falletta, LLC and we would be happy to provide you with assistance.