Many global buyers looking to move their families to the U.S are taking the route of the EB-5 Investment Visa. The program allows foreign investors, their spouses, and children under 21 to obtain “Green Card” status through investing money in projects in the United States. This is one of the many ways it is possible for international buyers to come to the US, please see our article Do I need a Visa to Buy Property in the US, to see which others might be right for you.
EB-5 Investor visa requirements
1. Make an investment of at least $900,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA)
2. Provide detailed evidence showing that the money invested was legitimately earned
3. The investment must cause the creation of 10 new jobs in the U.S.
The Green Card Process
EB-5 investors meeting the requirements can apply to obtain a temporary two years conditional Green Card. At the end of the two-year conditional period, investors must file a second application with USCIS to prove that they remain invested in their project and that their investment actually created the 10 new jobs required. Once you have held a Green Card for ten years and fulfilled all the necessary tax requirements, you are eligible to apply for citizenship. The program has a total of 10,000 EB-5 visas available each year and no waiting lists exist at present.
Most EB-5 Investors do so through Immigrant Investor Regional Centers. There are currently 676 regional centers listed across the US, with 72 entries for Florida. Regional Centers have been approved by USCIS (US citizenship and immigration services). But an approved listing with USCIS does not mean that the investment is sound, so always seek professional advice when making any investment decisions.
For an example of an EB-5 funded development, see our article on Harbourside Place in Jupiter, Florida.
So if you are looking to invest from $900,000 upwards and work towards a permanent life in the US, an EB-5 Investor Visa could be a great choice. If you are just looking to invest in a holiday rental or to make an initial visit then check out our article on the Visa Waiver Program.
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