Introduction to the US Migration by Investment

Migrating to the United States through investment is a pathway that allows foreign investors to obtain residency by making significant financial commitments to the US economy. The primary program facilitating this is the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, which has gained popularity due to its direct route to a Green Card. This guide covers the essential aspects, requirements, and steps involved in the process of migrating to the US through investment.

Understanding the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program

The EB-5 Program is designed to stimulate the US economy through job creation and capital investment by foreign investors. To qualify, investors must invest a minimum of $1.05 million in a new commercial enterprise, or $800,000 in a targeted employment area (TEA), which is a high-unemployment or rural area. The investment must create at least 10 full-time jobs for US workers.

Eligibility Criteria

Investment Amount

Explore our upcoming projects featuring state-of-the-art designs that blend modern aesthetics with functionality.

Job Creation

The investment must directly or indirectly create 10 full-time jobs for qualifying US workers within two years.

At-Risk Investment

The capital invested must be at risk for the purpose of generating a return on the capital placed.

Source of Funds

Investors must demonstrate that their investment funds were obtained through lawful means. This could include income from a legitimate business, the sale of property, or inheritance.

Application Processs

Select a Qualifying Investment

Choose between direct investments in a new commercial enterprise or investing in a Regional Center, which is a USCIS-designated organization that promotes economic growth.

File Form I-526

The investor must submit Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor, to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Conditional Green Card

Upon approval of the I-526 petition, investors and their immediate family members receive a conditional Green Card, which is valid for two years.

File Form I-829

After the two-year period, investors must file Form I-829 to remove the conditions on their Green Card. This requires proof that the investment has met all job creation and other program requirements.

Benefits of the EB-5 Program

Direct Pathway to US Residency

Successful investors and their immediate family (spouse and children under 21) are granted US residency.

No Sponsorship Required

Unlike other visa categories, the EB-5 does not require employer sponsorship.

Access to US Benefits

As permanent residents, investors and their families have access to US education, healthcare, and other benefits.

Potential for Citizenship

After five years of permanent residency, investors may apply for US citizenship.

Risk & consideration
Risk & consideration-2

Risks and Considerations

Financial Risk

The investment must be at risk, meaning there is no guarantee of return or recovery of the initial capital.

Program Changes

The EB-5 Program is subject to change by US Congress, which could affect the investment amount, requirements, and availability.

Processing Time

The processing time for EB-5 applications can be lengthy, often taking several years depending on the investor's country of origin and the USCIS backlog.

Alternatives to the EB-5 Program

While the EB-5 is the most direct investment-based pathway to US residency, other options may be available, such as the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa. However, the E-2 Visa does not lead directly to permanent residency and is only available to citizens of treaty countries.

Alternatives to the EB-5
placeholder-15.png

Conclusion

The US Migration by Investment pathway offers a unique opportunity for foreign investors to obtain US residency through significant economic contributions. While the process involves careful planning, substantial financial investment, and compliance with stringent regulations, it also provides a clear and rewarding route to becoming a US resident and potentially a citizen. Investors should consult with immigration experts and financial advisors to navigate the complexities of the EB-5 Program and other available options effectively.

Compare listings

Compare