14.10.2024
10 – 12 minutes
Ready to invest while starting your journey to US citizenship? The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers an unparalleled opportunity to live, work, and study in the USA, with eligibility for US citizenship after just five years of legal residence. Sounds great, but how easy is it to achieve? What level of investment do you have to make? Are there other US residence by investment programs that might better suit your needs? Let's explore the benefits, the EB-5 visa requirements, and the process behind this popular pathway to US citizenship.
Recent reports confirm that immigration to the USA has become increasingly complex. Of the millions who apply each year, comparatively few are successful. In 2021, for example, fewer than 3% of official applicants were admitted. The highly competitive nature of the US immigration process stems from high demand, strict quotas, and a preference for family reunification. Even with family ties or a job offer, the process can take years due to administrative backlogs. To secure US residence, understanding the right path and mastering the process can make all the difference. With expert advice, you can make an informed decision and avoid mistakes and delays.
What makes the USA a prime destination for high-net-worth individuals? From the innovation hub of Silicon Valley and the cultural vibrancy of New York to the wide-open spaces of Montana, the USA offers something for everyone. This great nation remains a global leader in innovation, wealth management, and business opportunities, while boasting the largest economy in the world. Despite political shifts, the USA provides a dynamic environment for individuals with significant financial means to flourish. The country offers exceptional healthcare, access to prestigious educational institutions, and a rich cultural life.
As a high-net-worth investor, entrepreneur, or senior executive looking to establish a presence in the USA, you have several options. Whether you are interested in investing, expanding your business, or transferring your expertise, the following visa programs offer pathways to US residence. However, if your long-term goal is US citizenship, one US visa stands out.
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa | E-2 Treaty Investor Visa | L-1 Intracompany Transfer Visa | |
Minimum investment | USD 800,000 | Substantial but no set minimum | No minimum investment |
Eligibility | Open to all nationalities | Open only to nationals of E-2 treaty countries | Open to all nationalities |
Business involvement | Passive or active involvement | Active management | Active management |
Processing time | 12–36 months | Up to 4 months | Up to 6 months |
Residence type | 2 years | 3 months to 5 years depending on the country of origin | 1 year |
Family rights | Spouse and unmarried dependents under 21 | Spouse and unmarried dependents under 21 | Spouse and unmarried dependents under 21 |
Path to citizenship | Direct route (after 5 years of legal residence) | Indirect route (requires transition to other visa type) | Indirect route (requires transition to other visa type) |
The EB-5 Investor Visa requires a substantial investment in a US business that creates jobs, but in return, it offers you a direct path to US citizenship. It’s an excellent option if you lack family ties or a sponsor, and, in certain cases, the application process can be quicker than other visa routes. Unlike the E-2, which doesn’t directly lead to citizenship, or the L-1, which ties you to a company, the EB-5 provides long-term security and flexibility, assuming all conditions are met. Here’s why high-net-worth individuals choose the EB-5 visa:
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program has helped overseas investors secure a US permanent residence card since the early 1990s. The US Congress created this visa program to stimulate the economy by attracting foreign capital to invest in industry and job creation.
To qualify for the EB-5 visa, you must invest at least USD 800,000 for two to five years in a commercial enterprise that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for US citizens or residents. You may choose to invest through a US-government-approved regional center or directly in your own commercial enterprise, including, but not limited to, a sole proprietorship, partnership, joint venture, or corporation. Over 90% of investors opt to work with regional centers. Finally, your investment capital must be legally obtained and controlled by you.
Now that you've determined the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is the best path for you, what steps should you take to ensure a smooth and efficient application process?
The EB-5 visa process can be a challenge. Avoidable mistakes could ultimately cost you your US citizenship. For example, if you don’t properly document the legal source of your funds, your initial application could be denied. Similarly, if you invest in a project that doesn’t create the required 10 full-time jobs, your petition to remove conditions on your US Green Card might be rejected.
Avoid these pitfalls by getting expert help from the offset. Henley & Partners is specialized in securing EB-5 visas for high-net-worth individuals. Reach out to us for a free initial consultation and let us guide you efficiently through each step of the process, so you can avoid costly mistakes and delays.
We’re here to make your EB-5 visa process as smooth and secure as possible, so you can focus on what matters most — building your future in the USA.
The EB-5 visa is a pathway to US citizenship through investment. You need to invest at least USD 800,000 in a commercial enterprise and create 10 full-time jobs. After holding a two-year conditional US Green Card, you can apply for a permanent residence card. After 5 years, you’re eligible to apply for US citizenship.
While some investors may see their capital returned after two years, on average, you need to be prepared to invest for three to five years, depending on the project you choose.
In addition to your investment capital, expect administrative, legal, and government fees totaling approximately USD 130,000.
For the latest information, please visit the relevant program pages on www.henleyglobal.com
Should you have any questions, or if you would like a detailed breakdown of the exact costs for your family, kindly contact us and we will be delighted to help you.
Callback
