Just like all methods of immigration, the process of obtaining a U.S. green card using the EB-5 visa program can get a bit tricky, but laying out the general steps greatly simplifies the process. The EB-5 visa program allows foreigners to become eligible for U.S. green cards if they invest $1 million in a U.S. business and that investment leads to the creation, or preservation, of 10 jobs.
Choose the investment
The $1 million investment requirement may be the most important part of the program and, as such, requires the most thought. The $1 million can be invested on one’s own or with the help of an EB-5 regional center.
A regional center is an umbrella company of sorts that’s manages the investments with a focus on a targeted geographic region. They can be private entrepreneurs, corporations or government agencies. After being approved for regional center status, the center is tasked with handling the investment. It is estimated that more than 90 percent of EB-5 investments are handled through the 84 regional centers in the country. They have proven to be a safe and reliable way for investors to obtain U.S. green card eligibility.
In some instances, the investment need not be $1 million. In regions designated Targeted Employment Areas (TEA) only a $500,000 investment is required. These areas are distinguished by having an unemployment rate higher than the national average.
One of the most attractive features of the EB-5 visa program is that the participant does not have to settle in the area in which they invested. So the whole country is open to EB-5 investors.
Get the papers in order
In addition to the specific paperwork required for the EB-5 program, it is important for the potential investor to have their identification documents, such as birth certificates, bank statements and immigration papers in order. Having these can make the EB-5 process run much more smoothly.
Be ready to move to America
Once the investment has been made and all the paperwork has been filed, EB-5 investors are generally allowed into the country on conditional resident visas. These allow investors to stay in America while they wait for their green cards.
Finally, if the investment has created 10 jobs, either directly or indirectly, the investor can apply for a U.S. green card. When the green card is issued, the investor and their entire immediate family is permitted to live anywhere in America.
For more information about eb5 investments or eb5 visas, please visit eb5exclusive.com.