Why EB-5 for Investors? The Benefits of an EB-5 Visa
Permanent residency with the option of applying for US citizenship provides you the opportunity to establish a long-term presence in the United States, granting you the rights and privileges of permanent residency while also offering you the potential to pursue full American citizenship in the future.
US Green Card
The EB-5 visa, or Employment-Based Fifth Preference visa, is a type of immigrant visa designed to stimulate the U.S. economy through foreign investment and job creation. Foreign citizens seeking to enter the United States generally need a visa, either for temporary stays (nonimmigrant visas) or for permanent residence (Green Cards). The primary appeal of the EB-5 visa is its potential to grant U.S. permanent residency. Investors pursuing an EB-5 visa often seek greater security, prosperity, and a new life in the United States. The EB-5 Program offers several benefits, including the opportunity for investors to achieve these goals.
One Investment
With just one investment, you, your spouse, and children under 21 can all obtain Green Cards, providing a streamlined path to permanent residency for your entire family. This approach values family unity and ensures a secure future in the US.
Education
As a Green Card holder, you can attend US schools and universities at the same cost as citizens, offering equal educational opportunities and enriching your academic experience through a diverse and inclusive environment.
Flexibility
Green Card holders enjoy the freedom to live, work, and retire anywhere in the US, change jobs without visa sponsorship concerns, travel abroad with ease, and embrace diverse experiences both within and beyond the United States.
Healthcare
You will have access to the same high-quality healthcare services as US citizens, ensuring you receive comprehensive medical care that meets rigorous standards and supports equitable healthcare access.
Passive Investment
The EB-5 visa applicant’s investment is managed by third parties, who handle all project details and ensure transparency, allowing investors to focus on their immigration process.
No language or business requirements
No proficiency in English or prior business experience is required to qualify for the program, making it accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds based on their unique strengths and motivations.
Concurrent Filing
Applicants already in the US on a valid non-immigrant status may be granted work and travel permits while their EB-5 petition is pending with USCIS, allowing them to remain in the US during the process.
EB-5 Visa Requirements for Investors
Prospective investors should thoroughly understand and familiarize themselves with the various EB-5 visa requirements before starting the application process. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of these requirements from the beginning, investors can make informed decisions, effectively plan their investment strategies, and ensure their eligibility for the program. Taking the time to educate themselves about the EB-5 visa requirements enables investors to embark on their immigration journey with confidence and fully leverage the opportunities the program offers. Key factors in the process include:
1. EB-5 applicants must invest in a qualifying US business. There is a wide range of US businesses that would qualify, from small LLCs solely owned by foreign investors to giant Partnerships organized by regional centers, like EB5 Capital. Historically, most EB-5 applications have been through Regional Centers for a variety of reasons, namely for greater security, ease, and convenience.
2. As of March 2022, with the passing of the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act (RIA), $800,000 is the minimum investment amount for projects in rural areas, projects in areas of high unemployment (Targeted Employment Area, or “TEA”), and government infrastructure projects. The investment minimum for other areas is $1,050,000.
3. Investors must have extensive evidence related to the origin of the money used for the EB-5 investment. This process is commonly known as the “source and path of funds” process. The EB-5 applicant should work directly on the source and path of funds with an experienced US immigration attorney.
4. The investment must also create at least ten (10) permanent US jobs to obtain permanent residency. USCIS determines whether the investor created enough jobs when the second petition, the I-829, is adjudicated.