US EB-5 INVESTOR PROGRAM
ONE OF THE QUICKEST WAYS TO OBTAIN RESIDENCY IN THE US
What is the US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program?
What is the US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program?
The U.S. Congress introduced the EB-5 immigrant visa in 1990, which is run by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The reason for its introduction was to stimulate economic growth through foreign investment.
The program allows foreign nationals to obtain a green card by making direct investments in a new or existing qualifying business. The minimum investment funds amount is $1,050,000, or $800,000 if you invest in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA). The business must also create 10 full-time jobs.
Compared to other paths to permanent residency, the EB5 Visa has one of the fastest processing times. The program is also one of the most straightforward and efficient ways to become a U.S. resident.
About the USA
The American EB-5 visa allows you to become a permananent resident of the United States of America. Here are some facts about the ‘Land of the Free’, often touted as one of the best places for tech and startup companies.
How does the EB-5 Investor Visa work?
There are two essential points that foreign investors need to know about the EB-5 project.
Capital Investment Requirements
The program offers two investment options depending on where you choose to invest.
The minimum EB-5 capital investment amount is $1.05million in a qualified commercial enterprise. A minimum of $800,000 is required for investments in TEAs, otherwise known as Targeted Employment Areas.
You must also show that your investment capital was obtained legally. For this, documents showing a lawful source of funds are required.
CREATE JOBS
As part of the employment creation criteria, investors must create full-time employment for at least 10 people.
If the enterprise is not located within a regional center, you must create full-time positions directly. The enterprise can either directly or indirectly create full-time jobs if they are within a regional centre.
Why is the USA a popular immigration choice?
The United States boasts the world’s largest economy and welcomes millions of migrants every year.
The country has long been viewed as the land of opportunity and is one of the best places for businesses to thrive. This is an important factor, considering EB5 Visas require direct investments in companies.
As long as you meet all of the eligibility criteria, you can start your EB-5 application to become a green card holder. Below is a general overview of the EB-5 visa process.
Step 1: Select a qualifying investment
The first step is to find a qualifying EB-5 project in which to invest.
There are two factors to consider at this stage; does the project meet the EB-5 program requirements for a green card, and will I see a return of capital?
EB-5 applicants must invest a certain amount for it to qualify. The minimum EB-5 investment amount is $1,050,000 or $800,000 if it’s in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA).
The next thing to consider is the job creation requirements. Your investment must create 10 full-time U.S. jobs to qualify under the EB-5 Investor Visa program.
You also need to consider your rate of return. This means not only having your investment capital returned in full but also seeing a return on your investment.
There is a lot to think about at this stage, so seeking financial advice from an EB-5 expert is recommended. They will be in a position to help you find and secure a suitable investment based on your needs.
Step 2: Submit your EB-5 petition
Once you have selected your investment, the next step is to submit your EB-5 petition (otherwise known as an I-526 petition) to the USCIS.
Your immigration attorney is responsible for filing the I-526 petition. The petition proves that you are invested in the process and that the investment meets the program requirements.
Step 3: Recieve 2-year conditional residency
The USCIS will review the I-526 petition. Once approved, you can apply for conditional permanent residency in one of two ways:
If you live in the U.S. – you need to complete an I-485 form for an adjustment of status
If you don’t live in the U.S., you must submit a DS-260 form to either a U.S. consulate or a U.S. embassy.
At this stage, you will be granted your conditional resident card, valid for two years.
Step 4: Become a permanent resident
This is the last stage of the EB-5 process. After two years, the conditions of your resident status can be removed and made permanent. For this to happen, you must file an I-829 petition.
