The EB-5 Visa is a powerful immigration tool for individuals worldwide seeking U.S. green cards and even a route to U.S. citizenship. This visa program allows foreign entrepreneurs and their families to live and work in the United States. In this guide, we’ll delve into the key aspects of the EB-5 Visa program, its requirements, and how it compares to the E-2 Visa.
What is the EB-5 Visa?
The EB-5 Visa program offers foreign nationals the opportunity to live and work in the United States. To qualify, individuals must invest a substantial amount of money in a U.S. business and actively manage their investment. Unlike the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa, the EB-5 Visa program imposes minimum investment requirements.
- Most commercial ventures require a minimum investment of $1 million.
- Projects located in Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs) require a reduced investment of $500,000.
- All EB-5 entrepreneurs must create a minimum of 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers within two years of receiving the visa.
What are the Differences Between the EB-5 Visa vs. the E-2 Visa?
Choosing between the EB-5 Visa and E-2 Visa hinges on your immigration and business goals. While the E-2 Visa provides temporary work authorization based on a significant investment, it does not offer a pathway to U.S. citizenship. If you seek permanent residence and a green card to manage a company, the EB-5 Visa is your ideal choice. Additional advantages of the EB-5 Visa include:
- No requirement to maintain a business in the home country.
- No need for extraordinary skills or achievements in a specific field.
What are the Requirements for EB-5 Investors?
Before making an EB-5 investment, prospective entrepreneurs must conduct thorough research and due diligence on their chosen business or project. After selecting an EB-5 project, investors must:
- Pay the EB-5 Visa application fee.
- Complete all necessary legal filings for EB-5 Business approval.
- Attend interviews at the U.S. embassy in their home countries for background checks on medical, criminal, and immigration history.
Upon approval, the EB-5 Visa is granted for a two-year conditional period, during which the EB-5 Business must create and sustain at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
What is the EB-5 Visa Process Like?
Applying for an EB-5 Visa involves a rigorous process and demands substantial evidence supporting several crucial facts. To obtain EB-5 status, applicants must demonstrate:
- Establishment of a new U.S. commercial enterprise or capital investment in a regional center’s existing venture.
- Investment of a qualifying capital amount from lawful sources.
- An investment “at risk” with the capacity to create and maintain the required jobs for U.S. workers.
- Intent to reside in the United States.
- Active involvement in managing the EB-5 Investment and Business.
Are Considering Pursuing an EB-5 Investor Visa? Here is How we Can Help You:
At Jurado & Associates, P.A., our lawyers are dedicated to assisting clients from all over the world in achieving their immigration and business goals. After taking the time to understand your unique needs, circumstances, and goals, we will work diligently and strategically to help you prepare a solid EB-5 Visa Application.
Contact us today by phone at (305) 921-0976, by email at [email protected], or by WhatsApp at +1 (305) 921-0976. We are here to assist you on your journey to permanent residency in the United States.
