What should you know about an EB-5 visa?

On Behalf of | Apr 26, 2019 | Investor Immigration

If you are interested in working in the United States in any capacity, there are specific visa options available to you. When you obtain one of these, you will have the ability to enter the U.S. and do specific types of work. You will find it greatly beneficial to learn more about an EB-5 visa and what steps you need to take to reach your goals.

The United States grants just 10,000 EB-5 immigrant investor visas every year. Due to the limited number, individuals with the intention of applying would be wise to learn about how to avoid missteps and complications with their registration process. Created in 1990, the EB-5 program is for the purpose of benefitting and boosting the economy by providing a way for immigrant investors to become lawful residents.

Who qualifies?

Like with other types of visas, there are strict eligibility requirements for EB-5 visas. Those applying for this type of visa must invest in a new commercial enterprise to be eligible. The initial investment cannot be less than $500,000, and it must create at least 10 new jobs for people outside of the investor’s family for at least two years. A new commercial enterprise can include various different types of for-profit businesses, such as: 

  • Corporation
  • Joint venture
  • Sole proprietorship
  • Partnership
  • Business trust
  • Other types of publicly or privately held business entities

There are strict requirements regarding the creation of jobs, the viability of the potential enterprise and more. Before applying, you will have to make various decisions regarding your investment and complete certain assessments. Simply preparing to complete the appropriate visa application can be complex, and you will find it helpful to have guidance as you navigate each step.

Reaching your goals

The EB-5 visa may be the right option for your specific immigration goals and hopes for the future, but immigration laws are complex and ever-changing. With such a significant financial investment at stake and your hopes for the future on the line, you will find significant benefit in working with a competent California-based immigration attorney from the very beginning. 

Starting with a complete assessment of your case, it is in your interests to learn as much as possible about what to expect from the visa process, what you can do to minimize complications and how you can move forward with your goal of taking part in the American dream someday.