What Is an EB-5 Immigrant Investor Green Card?
The EB-5 immigrant investor program can help you become a lawful permanent resident – and eventually, a permanent citizen – if you have sufficient funds to invest. USCIS issues up to 10,000 EB-5 green cards each year. Historically, there are more visas available than applications, resulting in little to no additional waits for many applicants.
To obtain an EB-5 immigrant investor green card, you will need to invest at least $900,000 in a U.S. commercial enterprise. This investment must create 10 domestic jobs or preserve 10 jobs in a designated distressed area. USCIS defines rural and distressed economic areas as “targeted employment areas” (TEAs). If you do not invest in a TEA, you will need to spend a minimum of $1,800,000.
Like with the E-2 treaty investor visa, entrepreneurs can choose to invest in an existing company or create a new commercial enterprise. The funds must be “at risk,” and applicants must prove they were sourced legitimately. Beneficiaries will need to take an active role in overseeing their investment.
How Long Do Eb-5 Green Cards Last?
EB-5 green cards are initially “conditional” and will expire 2 years after the date of issue. Recipients must apply to “remove conditions” in the 90-day window before their green card expires. To successfully remove conditions, entrepreneurs will need to demonstrate they took an active role in managing their investment and that the investment either created or preserved at least 10 American jobs. Once approved, entrepreneurs will receive a green card with a 10-year validity period.
Our Short Hills entrepreneur visa consultants at Worldwide Legal Services can guide you through each step of the EB-5 application process. We can assess your eligibility, review potential TEAs, and assist in selecting investment opportunities that meet all program requirements.
Contact us online or call (908) 948-8909 to start exploring your investment options. Payment plans are available, and we offer our services in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.