EB-5 Investment Visa: Your Pathway to U.S. Residency

For foreign investors looking to secure U.S. residency, the EB-5 investment visa offers a direct and strategic opportunity. This program, established by the U.S. government in 1990, allows individuals to obtain a Green Card by making a significant investment in job-creating enterprises. Unlike other immigration options, EB-5 does not require sponsorship from an employer or family member, making it an attractive choice for those seeking independence in their immigration journey.

What is the EB-5 Investment Visa?

The EB-5 investment visa allows foreign investors and their immediate family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21) to secure permanent residency in the United States by making a substantial investment in a U.S. business. 

EB-5 Investment Amount and Requirements

To qualify for an EB-5 investment Green Card, investors must meet specific financial criteria:

• Minimum Investment Amount: Investors must invest $800,000 if the project is located in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA)—a rural or high-unemployment region. For projects outside TEAs, the required minimum investment is $1,050,000.
• Job Creation: Each investment must generate or sustain at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
• Capital at Risk: The invested funds must be actively committed to a project and not merely held in escrow.
• Source of Funds Verification: Applicants must provide clear documentation proving their investment capital comes from legal sources.

Key Benefits of the EB-5 Investment Visa

The EB-5 visa program stands out due to its advantages:

• Permanent Residency for the Whole Family: The principal investor, spouse, and eligible children can all obtain Green Cards.
• Freedom to Live Anywhere: EB-5 investors can settle in any U.S. state.
• Educational and Professional Opportunities: Children of investors can attend U.S. schools and universities with resident tuition benefits.
• No Sponsorship Needed: Investors do not require an employer to petition on their behalf.
• Pathway to U.S. Citizenship: After five years from getting a Green Card EB-5 investors may apply for naturalization.

Steps to Obtain an EB-5 Investment Green Card

The journey to obtaining an EB-5 investment Green Card involves several critical steps:

1. Selecting a Qualifying Investment – Investors can either establish a new business or invest in a project sponsored by a Regional Center, which pools funds from multiple participants.
2. Filing Form I-526(E) – This petition demonstrates that the investor meets the EB-5 program requirements. This and the next petition you prepare with your immigration attorney
3. Receiving Conditional Residency – If the petition is approved, the investor and their family obtain a two-year conditional Green Card.
4. Filing Form I-829 – Within 90 days before the conditional Green Card expires, investors must submit proof that their investment has led to the required job creation. Upon approval, they receive permanent Green Cards.
5. Receiving Permanent Residency – If the petition is approved, the investor and their family obtain a permanent Green Card.

Is the EB-5 Investment Visa Right for You?

The EB-5 investment visa is an attractive option for high-net-worth individuals seeking a direct and reliable path to U.S. residency. However, it is essential to conduct thorough research, work with experienced immigration consultants, and select the right investment project to maximize success.

If you are interested in learning more about the EB-5 investment visa and how it can help you achieve your American dream, schedule a free consultation with our expert team today!