The gap, named · our reading of the rule

INA Section 245 governs Adjustment of Status inside the U.S. and details statutory bars. An investment dollar figure that resembles it comes from a different program. Forum compression leads people to mix up statutory bars with investment thresholds.

The Regulatory Framework

INA § 245(c) bars adjustment of status for individuals who engage in unauthorized employment or out-of-status periods. This legal code is completely unrelated to investment dollar thresholds.

How entrepreneurs prepare for this conversation

• Step 1: Audit Immigration Compliance: Audit your stay history for unauthorized labor or status gaps before filing for adjustment of status.
• Step 2: Verify Statutory References: Ensure any cited dollar amount corresponds to actual program statutes.

Attorney Interrogation Sheet (What to Ask)

1. Do any past activities trigger an adjustment bar under INA § 245(c)?
2. Does my case qualify for § 245(k) relief?

What this is not This piece quotes the published rule and says plainly where we are reading it rather than quoting it. It is not legal, tax or immigration advice, it creates no attorney–client relationship, and neither you nor we can apply it to your facts. Rules also move — check the date above, then take the questions in this piece to your own licensed attorney and CPA, who are the only people who can advise you.

Sources · primary law first, our own notes labelled as such

INA § 245 — adjustment of status statutory text

8 CFR 245.1 — eligibility requirements and bars

Own Yourself Now practice note, June 2026

Ownership and work authorisation are treated differently in the rules, and that difference is what this library is about. Everything here is written for people keeping the job that holds their status.

Put a number on it. Affordability Check

Then choose your route. The Immigrant Entrepreneur Cohort is four weeks, while employed, and it starts with exactly this question. See the next run →