Eb-5 (Immigrant Investor)

Suitable for entrepreneurs planning to invest a substantial amount into the US economy

Originally established in 1990, this visa was specifically designed for qualified non-US citizens to be granted permanent residence based on their investment into the United States economy.

How Many Eb-5 Visas Are Allocated Each Year?

 

10,000 are available per year, of which 3,000 are granted to those who make their investment through a USCIS designated Regional Center.

How Many Eb-5 Visas Are Allocated Each Year?

 

If you meet all requirements to legitimately enter the US and you’re proven to have a sufficient, legally obtained investment, you may be eligible for this visa category.

Do I Need to Have a Specific Background, Experience or Qualifications to Qualify?

 

No – none of these are included in EB-5 requirements.

Do I Have to Invest a Specific Amount to Be Eligible?

 

This significantly differs dependent on the area you choose to invest. Typically, an investment of at least $1,000,000 is needed to qualify for an EB-5.

However, if you want to make your investment in an area specified as a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), you’ll need a minimum of $500,000 instead.

Generally, TEAs are rural and are often low-income areas – investments are therefore necessary to enhance their economies. There are currently proposals being considered to increase investment amounts in these areas, as we’re consistently keeping watch on developments here at Mount Bonnell.

What Exactly Qualifies As ‘Investment’?

 

With regard to this visa category, there are some common misconceptions. One of which is that retained earnings within a US-based company automatically qualify as ‘investment’ – they don’t.

Is the Source of Investment Funds Limited?

 

There are certain procedures that need to be followed with regard to investment sources. These are:

  • Loans – you’re not permitted to rely on unsecured loans

  • Gifts – you are permitted to rely upon gifts (provided they meet the gifting requirements)

  • Join accounts – you can rely on a joint account, but only accounts held with a spouse. No other relationship will be accepted.

How Long Will It Take for My Eb-5 Visa to Be Processed?

 

Typically, it can take up to two years – but this heavily depends on multiple factors.

If I Successfully Qualify for an Eb-5, Will I Get a Permanent Green Card?

 

No – you will initially be granted a conditional green card that remains valid for two years. You must apply to have these conditions eliminated prior to the expiration date of your conditional green card.

If your application for condition removal is successful, you will then be granted a permanent green card. Provided you still meet the original EB-5 requirements, you should experience no issue having your initial conditions removed.

What Are Regional Centers?

 

Regional Centers are defined as organizations, entities or agencies focusing on a specific location in the US that promotes economic growth within that area.

They strive to boost export sales, enhance productivity, create new job opportunities and increase capital investment. What qualifies as a Regional Center is designated by US Citizenship and Immigration Services.