Who doesn’t want to live in a country where there are a plethora of opportunities to enhance and develop their livelihood?
The United States is one such country where people from other countries emigrate or want to do so, but gaining entry is a daunting task, and there are high chances of failure and rejection.
But if you’re an investor or someone who can invest, then the process can become relatively easier for you. The US EB-5 Investor Visa Program can secure permanent residency and citizenship in the US.
This program is for those who positively invest in US businesses to contribute to the economy and help promote employment.
So, if you dream of migrating to the US, you must know everything about the EB-5 visa program. This article specifically talks about this visa for investors, its process, and its benefits.
Oh, but before you dive into the article, it is essential to know that professional guidance is necessary to walk through the process of obtaining this visa smoothly. Global Residence Index helps people secure EB-5 visas without any hassle.
What is the EB-5 Visa for Investors?
Congress introduced the EB-5 investor program in the year 1990 to help the economy and create employment opportunities. Through this visa, foreign investors and their eligible dependent family members (spouses and unmarried children under 21) can become permanent US residents.
But specific requirements need to be met in order to attain the visa:
- Investors must invest a required minimum amount to a qualified US commercial enterprise
- It must create 10 full-time jobs for Americans
- Have to show proof that the investment amounts are lawfully obtained and were successful in creating full-time jobs
Fulfilling these will help you obtain a Green Card, and after five years, you will be eligible to apply for US citizenship.
Process to Secure EB-5 Visa
You need to follow some steps to apply for the EB-5 visa. Below is a basic overview of the process to attain this visa.
● Hire an Immigration Attorney
First, hire an immigration attorney with prior experience in the same field. The attorney will work with you throughout the visa process and handle all the documents and errors.
● Choose an Investment Option
After a thorough analysis, choose an EB-5 investment that suits your requirements. You can get help from investment advisors who are knowledgeable about this program.
Check with your attorney if the investment option complies with the visa conditions of EB-5.
● Invest the Amount
Invest the required amount in a US commercial enterprise.
● File Form I-526
After the investment, your attorney will file the I-526 form. Once the form is approved, you are eligible to apply for a 2-year conditional green card (conditional permanent residency).
In the span of 2 years, you must complete the requirements of EB-5, which includes creating 10 full-time jobs for Americans and other specified criteria.
● Visa Processing
Depending on whether you live in the United States or any other country, there are a few methods to getting your conditional green card. Your attorney will help you with the form fill-up process.
● File Form I-829
Form I-829 is filled after 21 months of being a conditional permanent resident. If you meet all the EB-5 requirements, you can fill out this form to remove the condition from your green card. So, you can become a green card holder (unconditional permanent resident).
● Apply for Naturalization
If you want to attain US citizenship, you can apply for naturalization after 5 years of being a green card holder.
Forms and Submissions
Below are the mandatory forms you need to fill out and submit throughout the process, from attaining the EB-5 visa to becoming an unconditional permanent resident.
- I-526: This form is filled out after the investment of funds to attain the 2-year conditional permanent residency.
- I-485 or DS-260: By submitting this form, you will receive your green card. I-485 is for those who live in the US, and DS-260 is for people living outside US.
- I-829: This form is submitted after 21 months of holding a conditional green card to remove the condition and become a permanent resident.
Benefits to Investors
Now that you have an overall understanding of the EB-5 visa, look at the benefits it offers to investors.
- Can apply for US citizenship
As already mentioned above, after holding the green card for at least 5 years, you will be eligible to apply for US citizenship.
- Unlimited employment opportunities
You are allowed to work anywhere and for anyone within the country. Visa holders are also allowed to switch jobs freely.
- Access to the US education system
EB-5 program gives access to US education system for your children. You can easily enroll your child so they can take advantage of the high-quality education.
- High Quality healthcare services
You can also enjoy the benefits of many healthcare services in the United States, as the EB-5 program provides the same benefits as US citizens.
- Can travel and live freely
You are allowed to live and travel wherever you want within the country. Also, travel abroad freely without any concerns.
- Support after retirement
Many US citizens receive pension support after retirement, and under the EB-5 visa program, you might also be eligible to receive pension funds.
Conclusion
The EB-5 visa program is for people willing to invest in US commercial enterprises and generate employment for the country. It’s the best option for people with the money to invest and want to emigrate to the United States.
It has numerous benefits, and you will also be eligible to attain US citizenship after some years!
