This morning, DHS and USCIS held its first public engagement on the International Entrepreneur Rule. It has been exciting to see this program lift from idea to an actual program! And I feel grateful and privileged to have been on this journey. The second edition of my book The Startup Visa has a chapter dedicated to the IER!
Today, the officials gave an overview of the program. The officials went through the requirements of the program. Here is our FAQ so you can easily understand the requirements. And here is our article from Above the Law which was published the day the rule was announced.
The officials were not able to give guidance on processing times yet, nor could they comment on how biometrics will be processed at embassies since most are not fully functional due to covid. However, what I will say to my readers, listeners and viewers is that don’t worry about those details quite yet. Preparation for these cases will take some time given the nature of the paperwork that is required. Therefore, if you are eligible, focus on preparing your application. We can help you strategize timelines and other issues. And as we get through the preparation, more information will come through from USCIS. They expect to hold webinars in the near future.
Interestingly enough, we did hear that about 30 applications have been filed to date. The agency will assess those first before giving my guidance on processing times.
Watch this space! Call us at 206 292 5237 or email us at [email protected]. We cannot wait to see international entrepreneurs really make an impact at a time the US needs it the most!