EB-5 Investor Petitions are a specialized program managed by USCIS, designed to facilitate the immigration process for foreign investors and their immediate family members. To be eligible for a green card through the EB-5 program, investors must meet the following criteria:
- Make the necessary financial investment in a commercial enterprise within the United States.
- Have a comprehensive plan to create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for qualified U.S. workers.
EB-5 Investor Petitions
EB-5 Program: Stimulating the Economy through Foreign Investment
The EB-5 program, established by Congress, serves as a catalyst for economic growth, leveraging the capital and job-creation potential of foreign investors seeking to obtain permanent residency through their investments.
Designed to stimulate the economy, the EB-5 program encourages foreigners to make significant capital investments that contribute to the creation of new jobs. By facilitating the acquisition of permanent residency through investment, we assist our clients in navigating the complexities of the EB-5 program, enabling them to make substantial contributions to the U.S. economy while pursuing their immigration goals.
Direct EB-5 Projects
When it comes to Direct EB-5 projects, there are no limitations imposed by Regional Centers. Investors have the freedom to select the type and location of their business ventures. If all other legal requirements are satisfied, Direct EB-5 presents investors with a wider array of investment opportunities. The minimum investment amount for Direct EB-5 projects is $1.8 million USD.Regional Centers
In contrast, an EB-5 regional center represents an economic entity, either public or private, within the United States that actively promotes economic growth. These regional centers receive designation from USCIS to participate in the Immigrant Investor Program. The minimum investment required for an EB-5 Regional Center project is $900,000 USD.The Green Card Process
Below is an overview of the EB-5 petition and application process for immigrating to the United States.- File Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor.
- After USCIS approves your Form I-526 petition, either:
- File DS-260, Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration, with the U.S. Department of State to obtain an EB-5 visa abroad to seek admission to the United States; or
- File Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with USCIS to adjust status to a conditional permanent resident within the United States. Once USCIS approves your Form I-485 application or upon admission into the United States with an EB-5 immigrant visa, they will grant conditional permanent residence to the EB-5 investor and derivative family members for a two-year period.
- File Form I-829, Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status, within the 90-day period immediately before the second anniversary of your admission to the United States as a conditional permanent resident.