The USCIS EB-5 Immigrant Investor Pilot Program (also known as the Immigrant Investor Visa Program) allows foreign nationals to obtain a green card based on an investment in a new commercial enterprise. This program was initiated to boost the economy of the USA through job creations and getting investment from foreign investors. It was passed as a law by congress in 1990 and United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now the authority that deals with it. It provides a lawful vehicle whereby foreign investors may be able to gain US citizenship through the creation of ten permanent full-time jobs for U.S. workers, or by investing $1 million in a targeted employment area (TEA), provided that the target amount is fully invested within 18 months of immigration.
Is the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program a good option?
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is a really good option for high-net-worth individuals looking to become legal U.S. residents. The investor visa can be a great solution for your immigration needs. It’s faster, less expensive, and easier to get than a traditional green card.
The EB-5 visa program allows foreign nationals to invest $900,000 in various projects throughout the US and receive a green card after two years. The $900,000 investment can be made in one of ten “targeted employment areas”. These areas include rural areas and places affected by government economic development plans. The number of EB-5 visas is limited to 10,000 per year with no more than 7% going to any one country.
EB-5 immigrant investor program Qualification Criteria?
Due to the new immigration bill, the EB-5 immigrant investor program has become more popular. The foreign nationals who invest about $1 million in a US business can apply for their green cards. The application, processing, and legal fees associated with EB-5 are all paid by the entrepreneur.
- The foreign investors need to show that they have created or saved 10 jobs in the United States.
- The money invested should be legal
- USCIS must approve the investment
- Minimum investment should be $0.9 for TEA and $1.8 million for non-TEA
- Invest at least $1m in the commercial sector, $0.5m in a failed business that stabilises and hires 10 U.S citizens, or invests $0.5m in any sector that is facing unemployment 150% more than average.
Our expert lawyers at london-immigrationlawyer.co.uk can help you get through the process of EB-5 immigrant visa and get the desired results.
Who can take advantage of the program?
Many people can take advantage of the EB-5 program. However, the main advantage of this program is that it is a fast track to form an American business and get a green card (permanent residency) in the USA. The EB-5 program is a permanent solution for foreign investors and their families if you have financial resources, a viable business plan, and are willing to relocate to the United States.
Time required for completion of the review of EB-5 Visa Application
Usually, it takes 13 months to get a decision on the EB-5 visa. The actual time depends on various factors and can differ based on different scenarios of each case
Advantages of the EB-5 visa
- Reside and work in the country with your family members
- Grant of Green card that is renewable
- Travel in the country and out without any visa
- The investment pays back nicely
- Health insurance
- No language, age, and profession barrier
Disadvantages
- You may face a visa backlog
- The investment amount may not be payable by many
- It is not a permanent program
- Your investment is always at risk
Cost of the EB-5 visa
It costs almost $3,675 to apply for this visa which includes the application fee and medical examination fees.
Family members of Visa holders
Your spouse can qualify for temporary and permanent residence along with you. The only condition is that you two must be married when you enter the country. The children qualifying for residence must be under 21 years old.
Many factors go into applying for an EB-5 visa, and it’s important to take the application process seriously from start to finish. We are a reputable immigration lawyer who is ready to help you in immigration matters. We help you apply for your visa abroad and make sure that you are fully aware of all aspects and your application does not get rejected. Contact us without delay and make your visa process easier. Find a US immigration lawyer if you want to apply for leave to return.
