The US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program

The USA is a premier destination for international investors. The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers an efficient roadmap to permanent resident status (green card) for people willing to make a significant investment in the country. Established in 1990 by Congress, this program allocates a substantial number of visas annually to individuals aiming to invest in projects that create jobs and stimulate the US economy. Under this program, investors and their immediate family members can achieve permanent residency in a relatively short timeframe.

Benefits of the US EB-5 Visa Program

• Attractive Destination: The USA is one of the most desirable locations for business and lifestyle.
• Top-Tier Education: Access to renowned schools and Ivy League universities across the country.
• Efficient Route to Residency: A straightforward process for obtaining a green card through investment.
• Family Inclusion: Ability to include a spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old in the application.
• Minimal Requirements: No prior business experience or specific language skills are necessary.
• Flexible Presence Requirements: Minimal requirements for physical presence in the USA.
• Pathway to Citizenship: Eligibility for citizenship after five years of legal residence.

Requirements for USA Residence by Investment

To qualify for the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, applicants must invest in a new commercial enterprise linked to government-approved regional centers that promote economic growth. The requirements are as follows:

1. Investment Options:

1. • $1,050,000 into a non-targeted employment area project.
   • $800,000 into a targeted employment area project located in a rural area or one with high unemployment.

2. Job Creation:

1. • Must create or preserve 10 permanent full-time jobs for qualified US workers.

3. Source of Funds:

1. • Applicants must demonstrate that their investment funds come from legal sources.

Once approved, the investment must remain in place for three to seven years, depending on the specific project.

Approved applicants receive conditional green cards valid for two years. After this period, conditions can be removed by proving that the required jobs were created or maintained, allowing for a transition to a regular green card without affecting residency rights.

Application Procedures and Timeline

Applications must be submitted using designated forms, accompanied by appropriate fees and supporting documents, including:

• Personal identification
• Medical reports and vaccination records
• Certified police clearance certificates and any relevant court records

On average, applicants can expect to receive their initial conditional green cards within 12 to 36 months. After two years, they can file to convert their conditional green card to a regular one.

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply for green cards as derivative applicants without additional financial contributions, though they must complete their own application paperwork.

Permanent Residency and Citizenship

Permanent residents can live anywhere in the USA, although their visa-free or visa-on-arrival access is more limited compared to other countries.

To qualify for citizenship, green card holders must have resided continuously in the USA for at least five years. They must also demonstrate:

• Physical presence in the USA for at least 30 months during the five years prior to applying for naturalization.
• Basic proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English.
• Knowledge of US civics, as evidenced by a civics test.

These conditions ensure a smoother path to citizenship for dedicated green card holders.