USA

The United States of America, with a population exceeding 325 million, is the third largest country in the world by total area. It boasts the largest economy globally by nominal GDP, driven by its position as the top importer and the second largest exporter of goods. Comprising 50 states, the US offers a diverse range of business environments tailored to various needs.

As a nation, the US is home to some of the most advanced medical and educational facilities. Its varied climate and geography make it an attractive destination, granting residents and their immediate families access to public education at all levels. Additionally, the country features thousands of esteemed private schools, many of which are multilingual and provide pathways to some of the world’s top universities and colleges.

Requirements

The EB5 Visa was established by the Immigration Act of 1990, offering a reliable pathway for foreign investors and their families (spouses dependents under 21) to secure a Green Card (permanent residency).

To qualify applicants must commit to a substantial investment in the U.S., as the primary goal of the EB-5 Visa is to boost the U.S. economy through job creation and capital infusion In exchange, foreign investors receive the full benefits of permanent residency in the United States.

Applicants have two investment options available to successfully obtain an EB-5 Visa: Direct Active Investment and Regional Centre Passive Investment.

Direct Active Investments

A minimum investment of USD $1.8 million is required, or USD $800,000 if investing in Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs) with unemployment rates at least 150% of the national average, or in rural areas. The investment must be in a new commercial enterprise or a job-creating entity, although it can also be made in an existing one.

This investment must generate 10 full-time jobs, or under specific conditions, preserve 10 full-time jobs, not including the investor and their immediate family. The new or existing enterprise managed by the investor may create the necessary jobs directly, indirectly, or through induced effects. The investor will be responsible for actively managing and supervising employees, overseeing daily operations, and participating in policy development for the commercial enterprise or job-creating entity.

Regional Centre Passive Investments

The necessary investment can be made in a new commercial enterprise or job-creating entity that has established a licensing agreement with a company recognized by USCIS as a Regional Center. This designation pertains to a specific geographical area focused on business activities and job creation.

In most cases, the projects associated with these Regional Center investments are managed by different developers and operators than the investors. Typically, investors hold a security interest in the new commercial and take on a passive role in policy-making or joint management decisions alongside other investors.

A minimum investment of USD $1.8 million is required, or USD $800,000 if investing in Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs) with unemployment rates at least 150% of the national average or in rural locations. The investment must lead to the creation of 10 full-time jobs or, under certain conditions, preserve 10 full-time jobs, excluding the investor and their immediate family. Under the Regional Center designation, the new or existing commercial enterprise/job-creating entity can fulfill the job creation requirement directly, indirectly, or through induced effects.

Process Overview

There are more than 800 approved EB-5 Regional Center projects throughout the United States. Investors should prioritize Regional Centers with a proven track record, ensuring that projects are financially sound, managed by reputable developers, compliant with EB-5 immigration regulations, and have a well-defined exit strategy. RIF Trust will assist investors in navigating the selection process.

The initial step for EB-5 investors is to sign a Representation Agreement with a qualified U.S. immigration attorney who specializes in immigration due diligence and legal guidance related to EB-5 project documentation.

The attorney's fees typically range from USD $20,000 to $25,000, in addition to costs (such as government processing fees, copying, and mailing). This fee covers the preparation and submission of the EB-5 petition. Once the petition is approved, the next step is to file applications with the U.S. consulate for conditional permanent residency for the investor, their spouse, and minor children. The final step involves submitting a petition to USCIS for unconditional permanent residency after the two-year conditional period.

When transferring the necessary investment to the EB-5 Regional Center project, investors are also required to pay an administration/syndication fee of USD $70,000 or $90,000.

Benefits

A fast route to achieving US permanent residence

Investment from USD$800,000

The world’s largest economy is the perfect base for business minded people and investors

The ability to live, work, study or retire anywhere in the US, not determined by where the investment is made

Children have access to the US education system

Source of funds can be a gift such as that from a parent

Children up to the age of 21 may be included in the application

US Citizenship is possible to apply for after five years

Summary

The USA will always remain a sought after destination. Although the options remain more complex than other visa programmes, the benefits are undeniable. With secure options available at a low price, this programme is one that will ultimately provide you with unrivaled benefits.