- country
- United States
- eligibility
- Foreign founder must have established a U.S. startup within the past 5 years, hold at least a 10% ownership interest at the time of initial application, and play a central/active role in operations. The startup must demonstrate significant public benefit and substantial potential for rapid growth and job creation. Effective Oct 1, 2024, the startup must have received at least $311,071 in capital investment from qualified U.S. investors OR at least $124,429 in grants/awards from qualifying U.S. federal, state, or local government entities. Re-parole requires at least 5% ownership, at least 5 qualifying jobs created, and at least $622,142 in qualifying investment/grants/revenue (with averaged 20% annual growth if relying on revenue).
- processing notes
- Discretionary parole granted for an initial period of up to 30 months, extendable by an additional 30 months (total up to 5 years). Applicants may apply from inside or outside the U.S.; biometrics required. A $1,000 parole fee took effect October 16, 2025, with annual inflation adjustments beginning FY2026. This is a parole pathway, not a dedicated startup visa category.
- quota
- No statutory numerical cap or annual quota; parole is discretionary on a case-by-case basis (not a visa lottery).