EB5 Program Grows in Popularity

The EB5 immigration program allows up to 10,000 people to immigrate to the United States each year by investing a minimum of $500,000 in a job-creating enterprise. EB5 immigrants have the choice of either investing $500,000 in a designated Regional Center project that is expected to create full-time jobs or investing $1 million in any enterprise that is expected to create at least 10 full-time jobs. The spouses, children, and stepchildren of the EB5 immigrant may move to the U.S. under the program too. After approval by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the EB5 immigrant attains conditional permanent residence status. After two years the investor can apply to have the conditions lifted.

Reasons People Seek EB5 Visas

People of all ages and in all professions pursue EB5 immigration. Many of them want to move to the U.S. for their children's education. Some believe opportunities for success are greater in the U.S. than in their home country. Still other EB5 participants cite the affordability of a comfortable home in the U.S., better environmental protection, or greater safety of their monetary assets. While some EB5 immigrants take an active, "hands on" approach to their business venture, others prefer to take a more passive role by investing in an already-established business.

Welcoming Climate for EB5 Investors

Though the EB5 immigration program is not as well-known as other types of immigration, cities across the U.S. welcome EB5 investment. Many cities are undertaking urban revitalization projects that are partly funded by EB5 investors and are working hard to put investors' money to work creating permanent jobs, particularly in regions where unemployment levels have been high. From housing developments to high tech companies to vacation resorts, the opportunities for EB5 investors are practically unlimited.

Examples of EB5 Projects

• In Cincinnati, Ohio, revitalization projects along Short Vine Street are trying to raise $20 million from immigrant investors for a University of Cincinnati technology accelerator for incubating start-up businesses.

• AE Polysilicon, a maker of solar panels in Pennsylvania, is actively seeking EB5 investors for construction of a polysilicon manufacturing facility.

• A retail and office development called Homeplate Center in south Seattle is looking for EB5 investors.

These are only three examples of projects across the U.S. that seek immigrant investors. It is safe to say that immigrant investors with specialized interests seeking EB5 visas have very good chances of finding a Regional Center project that aligns with their interests. And investor immigrants who want to create an enterprise from the ground up can do so with a $1 million investment under the EB5 program.

Role of EB5 Consultants

EB5 is a terrific opportunity for those who want to move to the United States. However, immigration is always a complex process. Specific forms must be completed in the proper order, and approval must be granted at several steps between applying for EB5 immigration and receiving a permanent conditional green card. EB5 consultants specialize in helping immigrant investors navigate the complex process involved in immigrating under the EB5 program. They ensure that all requirements are fulfilled so that both the immigrant and the U.S. economy can begin benefitting from their investment as expediently as possible.