Trump Administration Blocks Final Rule Creating Legal Immigration Status for Startup Entrepreneurs

The Trump Administration has delayed the effective date of an Obama Administration rule that would have provided a legal immigration status for foreign entrepreneurs. The rule, originally announced in January 2017, was scheduled to go into effect on July 17, 2017. On July 11, DHS gave formal notice that the effective date of the final rule is delayed until March 14, 2018 while DHS solicits comments on a proposal to rescind the rule. The rule was good news for foreign entrepreneurs and was intended to address a large void in available immigration options for startups. The Trump Administration’s move to delay the rule is a strong signal that it is now in serious jeopardy.