What is EB-5?
Since its introduction in 1990 by the U.S. Immigration Act, the EB-5 program provides a special category of immigration visa for the international investors. To qualify for the program, the applicant must invest $800,000 in a new approved commercial enterprise or company located in an area of the United States with a high unemployment rate. The applicant's investment must create 10 full-time jobs within a two-year period.
After the successful completion of the program, investors and their family members (spouse and children under the age of 21) are given a conditional resident status in the United States, which can be converted into a permanent residency with a path to citizenship.
Who may apply for the EB-5 Visa and qualify for permanent residency ("green card")?
The investor, spouse and any unmarried children under the age of 21 are eligible to apply for a green card through the EB-5 Visa Program.
What are the basic requirements?
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Must invest $800,000 in an approved commercial enterprise or company located in an area of the United States with a high unemployment rate. |
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Must be able to prove lawful source of investment capital. |
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Each investment must create 10 full-time jobs for U.S. qualified workers. |
EB-5: Source of Funds
Individuals interested in the EB-5 Visa Program must provide sufficient evidence documenting the source of the funds that are used for the EB-5 investment. The funds for the required $800,000 investment may be obtained from a number of sources such as from a gift, a personal loan, savings, sale of assets, an inheritance or from other legal sources.
EB-5 Program Benefits (Invest in a Regional Center project)
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Unlike other U.S. visa programs, there are no requirements for age, education level or prior business experience |
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The applicant and his or her family (spouse and children under the age of 21 at the time of visa appointment) will be awarded green cards and will be able to settle anywhere in the United States. |
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The Applicant is not required to speak English. |
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The Applicant can apply for citizenship 5 years after becoming a temporary resident. |