The U.S. Congress introduced the EB-5 visa in 1990 to attract foreign talent and investment. The programme allows foreign investors a route to permanent U.S. residency (Green Card) and potentially citizenship via investment.
Recent updates hiked the minimum investment thresholds though, so it's crucial to grasp the updated requirements. This article covers everything you need to know.
What is the EB-5 Visa?
The EB-5 is an immigrant investor visa program. It is issued to foreign nationals and expats looking to do business, invest, and relocate to the United States. It’s the most viable residence by investment programme in the US. It allows you and your family to become permanent residents and a means to gain a Green Card by investing in American commercial enterprises that generate at least ten new jobs.
The EB-5 visa is renewed every 2 years, but can also provide a route to US citizenship after 5 years. The minimum investment is now $800,000 for targeted employment areas (TEA) and $1,050,000 for non-targeted areas.
EB-5 Visa Changes in 2024
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program saw some key revisions take effect in 2024. Most notably, the minimum qualifying investment amounts were increased significantly. For investments in targeted employment areas, designated as rural or high unemployment, the new minimum is $800,000. For investments in non-targeted areas, the minimum capital required is now $1,050,000. They were increased from $500,000 and $1 million.
Requirements for EB-5 Visa Application
To obtain an EB-5 visa, applicants must meet several core requirements. Firstly, they must invest the full required minimum capital, either $800,000 or $1,050,000 based on the project location, into a new commercial enterprise. This investment must then lead to the creation or preservation of at least 10 full-time jobs for US workers.
As an expat or investor, you can channel your investment for an EB-5 visa in two ways. You can invest individually or through a regional centre approved by the government.
What are the Benefits of the EB-5 Investor Visa?
The main benefit of an EB-5 visa is a pathway to a Green Card and eventual US citizenship for the investor and their immediate family members. As permanent residents, they gain the right to live, work, and study within the country, without the need for an employer to sponsor them. EB-5 visa holders can travel to and from the US freely, without requiring a separate visa.
Obtaining US Permanent Residency and Citizenship through EB-5 Visa
EB-5 bridges are conditional to full permanent residency, then citizenship. After a two-year conditional residency, conditions are removed if EB-5 criteria like job creation are met, granting a Green Card. Green Card holders can subsequently apply for US citizenship through naturalisation after 5 years of permanent residency.
If you're considering the EB-5 Investor Visa as your pathway to US permanent residency and potentially citizenship, it's essential to stay informed and prepared for the updated requirements and investment thresholds. The EB-5 program offers a unique opportunity to not only invest in the US economy but also secure a future for you and your family in the United States. Navigating the application process and understanding the nuances of the investment requirements can be complex. Our team is here to provide you with expert guidance and support every step of the way. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you make the most of this opportunity and begin your journey toward obtaining a Green Card through the EB-5 Investor Visa program.