There are many paths toward permanent residency in the United States. The investment is the most efficient of the majority of them. Foreign investors who invest in the U.S. economy will benefit from this pathway for obtaining green cards for themselves along with their family members. If you’re weighing this option, knowing the requirements, costs, and process can help you make informed choices.
The EB-5 Investor Visa: A Pathway to Residency
The EB-5 visa program is the number one option for investor permanent residency. The program, which was created in 1990, is meant to spur economic growth by prompting foreign investment in American companies. To qualify, investors must invest a minimum of $1,050,000 into a new or existing enterprise that creates at least ten full-time jobs for United States workers. If the investment is in a rural area or a region of high unemployment, the minimum falls to $800,000.
An investor may invest in a real estate development in a rural community or partner in a start-up in a targeted employment area, for instance. These investments help boost the local economy and also permit investors to bring their spouses and unmarried children under 21 to the United States.
It is always a complicated process in the EB-5 program and must be well-planned and vetted in accordance with the legal requirements. The Law Office of Olena Manilich has experience assisting investors in structuring their applications to satisfy all requirements.
Understanding the Costs and Timelines
The cost of securing permanent residency through investment goes beyond the required capital. Applicants will also need to factor in administrative fees, legal services, and government filing fees, usually between $10,000 and $15,000. The money spent will also save you from costly delays, as an experienced immigration lawyer will make sure your application fulfills all the norms.
The EB-5 process takes time. Once you invest and submit your application, it generally takes 18–24 months for you to receive conditional residency. This conditional status is valid for two years. During this, you must demonstrate that your investment meets the program’s job-creation requirements. Then, you can apply for permanent residency.
If that feels like a lot, we’ll be here to help at every stage. Schedule a consultation, and let us walk you through these complexities.
Alternatives to EB-5 for Business Professionals
Although the EB-5 visa is the most straightforward path for investors. Other visa types can serve as a step toward obtaining permanent residency. The E-2 visa, for example, permits individuals from certain treaty countries to reside and work in the U.S. through a substantial business investment. The E-2 visa is not an immigrant visa, but it can be renewed indefinitely and possibly eventually be an avenue to permanent residency through other means.
The L-1 visa provides another path for entrepreneurs who already have a successful business in another country. The visa is for executives or managers being transferred to a U.S. office and can, in some cases, lead to a green card under EB-1C. Each investor’s profile is different, and choosing the right visa is a function of goals and circumstances. At The Law Office of Olena Manilich, we can help you navigate these options.
Why Choose Investment as Your Pathway?
Visas work on an investment basis carry multiple benefits as compared to any alternative immigration pathway. They allow investors to skip the lottery system for visas like the H-1B, and they offer a chance to invest directly in the U.S. economy. Moreover, these programs allow investors to bring their families, providing children with access to education in the United States.
In addition, this path needs to be carefully structured and legal advice has to be sought out. We are trained on the facts and nuances of investment-based immigration. Also, we can guide you through the process of leveraging this rewarding opportunity.
Ready to Begin Your Case?
There is a significant amount of information surrounding investments and securing permanent residency. However, it is critical to have an experienced legal team on your side.
We here at The Law Office of Olena Manilich are committed to making the process as easy and successful as possible. Please contact us today, to see how we can help you meet your immigration needs.
