Final Rule on Start-Up Entrepreneurs Delayed until Next Year

As part of its review of rules promulgated under the Obama administration near the end of his term, the Trump administration has put on hold the final rule regarding allowing start-up Entrepreneurs to temporarily come to the US and start up a company.   The final rule was put on hold until March 14, 2018.  In the meantime, the Trump administration is soliciting comments on a proposal to revoke the rule.

While the new rule was somewhat limited (it applied to entrepreneurs with a start-up in the US that was less than 3 years old and had received substantial investment from US investors or substantial grants from US government entities AND only provided a parole document as opposed to an actual visa and more standard status), it was an important rule to allow more people to come to the US and start substantial businesses that would help our economy and provide employment to US citizens.  There really was no downside the rule considering the amounts of investment required and the documentation needed to show that the company has the potential for rapid business growth and, therefore, the ability to hire substantial US workers.

However, because the new administration ordered USCIS to only use its parole authority in strict humanitarian circumstances, it appears that this new rule will be revoked prior to being implemented.  The only possibility for a reprieve would be if there is a change to the executive order regarding the use of parole authority by USCIS.

Please remember, as always, this blog does not offer legal advice. If you need legal advice, consult with a lawyer instead of a blog. Thank you.