The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a unique pathway to U.S. permanent residency (Green Card) for foreign nationals who make a qualifying investment in the United States. This program is an excellent option for those seeking to secure U.S. citizenship for themselves and their families while contributing to the U.S. economy. At American Visa Hub, we specialize in guiding investors through the EB-5 program, offering expert support every step of the way to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
What is the EB-5 Investment Green Card?
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program allows foreign investors to obtain a U.S. Green Card by making a significant investment in a U.S. business that creates or preserves jobs for American workers. By investing in a qualifying project, investors and their immediate family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21) can obtain U.S. permanent residency, which can eventually lead to U.S. citizenship.
The EB-5 program is highly sought after because it allows for a relatively straightforward path to a Green Card, with the added benefit of living, working, and studying in the United States.
Who is Eligible for the EB-5 Visa?
To qualify for the EB-5 Investment Green Card, investors must meet the following key eligibility requirements:
1. Investment Requirement
Minimum Investment Amount: Investors must make a minimum investment of $1,050,000 in a U.S. business. In certain rural areas or high-unemployment areas, the minimum investment amount is reduced to $800,000 (Targeted Employment Areas or TEAs).
At-Risk Investment: The investment must be “at risk,” meaning that it is subject to loss if the business does not succeed. The investment cannot be a passive one; it must be used for a real, operational business.
2. Job Creation Requirement
The investment must result in the creation or preservation of at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. These jobs must be directly or indirectly related to the business and must last for at least 2 years.
3. Investment in a Qualifying Business
The business in which you invest must be a new commercial enterprise. This can include starting a new business or investing in an existing business that is restructuring or expanding.
Alternatively, you can invest in a Regional Center, which is a USCIS-approved entity that facilitates investments in designated projects that meet job creation and economic requirements.
4. Active Involvement
While you do not need to actively manage the day-to-day operations of the business, you must play a policy-making role in the company. This ensures that your investment contributes to the creation of jobs and the growth of the business.
EB-5 Visa Application Process
The EB-5 application process is intricate, requiring careful attention to detail. At American Visa Hub, we are here to help you navigate the process, from selecting the right investment opportunity to filing the necessary documents with USCIS. The typical steps for obtaining an EB-5 Green Card include:
Step 1: Select Your Investment Opportunity
The first step in the EB-5 process is choosing a qualifying investment opportunity. You can either invest directly in a new business or invest through a Regional Center. Regional Centers offer the advantage of pooling investments, which can make it easier to meet the job creation requirements.
Step 2: Make the Required Investment
Once you’ve selected an investment opportunity, you must make the required financial investment. The money must be at risk, and you must be able to demonstrate that the funds were legally acquired.
Step 3: File Form I-526 (Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor)
After making the investment, the next step is to file Form I-526, the Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor, with USCIS. This form demonstrates that your investment meets all the eligibility requirements of the EB-5 program.
Required documentation includes proof of investment, business plans, job creation projections, and evidence of the legality of the investment funds.
Step 4: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
Once your I-526 petition is approved, you and your family members (spouse and children under 21) can apply for a U.S. Green Card.
Adjustment of Status: If you are already in the U.S., you can apply to adjust your status to permanent resident through Form I-485.
Consular Processing: If you are outside the U.S., you will attend an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy in your home country to obtain your Green Card.
Step 5: Conditional Permanent Residency
Once you and your family are granted permanent residency, you will receive a conditional Green Card that is valid for 2 years. During this period, you must maintain your investment and continue to meet the job creation requirements.
Step 6: Remove Conditions on Your Green Card (Form I-829)
In the 90-day period before the 2-year anniversary of receiving your conditional Green Card, you must file Form I-829 to remove the conditions. You must demonstrate that your investment has created or preserved the required jobs, and that the business is still operational.
If USCIS approves your I-829 petition, you will be granted a permanent Green Card.
Why Choose American Visa Hub for Your EB-5 Investment Green Card?
The EB-5 process can be challenging, but with the right guidance, it becomes manageable. At American Visa Hub, we offer comprehensive services to help investors successfully obtain their EB-5 Green Card.
1. Expert Advice on Investment Opportunities
Our team has deep knowledge of the EB-5 program and the various investment opportunities available. We help you evaluate Regional Centers, businesses, and projects to ensure that your investment aligns with your financial goals and the requirements of the program.
2. Thorough Documentation Support
We provide full support in preparing and filing the necessary documentation, ensuring that all forms and evidence are complete and accurate. This minimizes the chances of delays or denials.
3. Guidance Through the USCIS Process
From the initial petition (I-526) to the final application for permanent residency (I-829), we are with you every step of the way, providing advice, support, and updates throughout the process.
4. Family-Friendly Process
The EB-5 program allows investors to bring their spouse and unmarried children under 21 to the U.S. We help guide you through the process of including your family members in your application, ensuring they too can enjoy the benefits of U.S. permanent residency.
5. Regional Center Connections
We have established relationships with trusted EB-5 Regional Centers that offer high-quality investment opportunities in various sectors such as real estate, healthcare, and hospitality. We help you navigate these options to find the right investment for your situation.
Key Benefits of the EB-5 Investment Green Card
Permanent Residency for the Whole Family: Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can obtain permanent residency as part of your EB-5 application.
Pathway to U.S. Citizenship: After obtaining your permanent Green Card, you can apply for U.S. citizenship after 5 years of residency.
Live, Work, and Study in the U.S.: As a permanent resident, you and your family can live, work, and study in the U.S. without restrictions.
No Employer Sponsorship Needed: Unlike other work visas, the EB-5 program does not require employer sponsorship, giving you more flexibility.
Financial and Business Growth: The EB-5 program allows you to invest in business opportunities that not only help you achieve your immigration goals but also contribute to the U.S. economy.
Conclusion
The EB-5 Investment Green Card is a powerful program that offers foreign nationals the opportunity to secure U.S. permanent residency through investment in U.S. businesses. At American Visa Hub, we specialize in guiding investors through the complexities of the EB-5 process, helping you choose the right investment opportunity and ensuring a smooth, successful application.
Contact us today to learn more about how the EB-5 program can help you achieve your immigration and investment goals.
No, the business must meet specific criteria outlined by USCIS, including job creation and being a new commercial enterprise. You can invest directly in a business or through a Regional Center.
The entire process, from the initial investment to obtaining a permanent Green Card, typically takes 2-3 years, though it may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can apply with you as part of your EB-5 petition.
If your I-526 petition is denied, you can appeal the decision or apply again with corrected documentation. We will help guide you through the next steps to resolve the issue.