The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program allows investors to become legal residents in the US. Here's what you need to know about program requirements and procedures.
4 Benefits of The EB-5 Visa
1. US citizenship in 7 years. After 2 years of residence in the US with the EB-5 visa, you and your family will be eligible for permanent residence. After another 5 years, you can apply for US citizenship. Both South Africa and the US allow dual citizenship so you wouldn’t need to renounce your first passport.
2. Banking services. You can open accounts in different currencies, get loan approvals, and facilitate international transactions.
3. US education and healthcare. You can enroll your children in US schools for free. They also get a chance to win university scholarships after graduating.
4. Investment return is possible after 5—7 years.
Requirements for EB-5 Investors
You must be older than 18, financially stable, and have no criminal record. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can apply too.
There are two investment options:
- $800,000+ in a Targeted Employment Area project.
- $1,050,000+ in other projects.
It is also required to create 10+ jobs.
While you can apply for an EB-5 visa independently, doing it through a Regional Center is more convenient. Immigrant Invest can help choose the right center, approved by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Process of Applying for an EB-5 Visa via a Regional Center
1. Selecting a project, preparing the documents, and transferring the investment funds.
2. Filing an I-526E petition with the USCIS. It will be reviewed for 3—4 years.
3. Coming to the US, filing an I-485 petition, and getting a Conditional Green Card for 2 years.
4. Applying for a permanent Green Card by filing an I-829 petition. It will be reviewed for up to 3 years.
The USCIS conducts thorough Due Diligence for each EB-5 visa applicant. To minimize the risk of refusal, Immigrant Invest's Certified Compliance Anti-Money Laundering Officer performs preliminary Due Diligence, and lawyers assist with the EB-5 application process.
