The EB-5 Immigrant investor program offers foreign nationals an opportunity to gain U.S. permanent residency by investing in job-creating businesses. Eligibility depends on meeting specific investment thresholds and demonstrating that the funds are lawfully obtained. Applicants must also commit to projects in designated areas, ensuring their contributions support economic development and employment growth in the United States.
Minimum investment requirement:
To qualify for the EB-5 program, applicants must make a minimum investment of $1,050,000 in a new commercial enterprise. This amount is reduced to $800,000 if the investment is in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), which includes rural areas or regions with high unemployment. The investment must be at risk for the entire period of the application process to ensure compliance with the program’s regulations.
Job creation criteria:
Applicants must demonstrate that their investment will create or preserve at least ten full-time jobs for U.S. workers. These jobs can be direct, indirect, or induced, depending on whether the investment is made through a Regional center or as a direct investment. Accurate job creation forecasts and documentation are essential to meeting this criterion.
Source of funds verification:
Eligibility also requires investors to prove that their funds have been obtained through lawful means. This involves providing extensive documentation, such as tax returns, bank statements, business records, or asset sale agreements. Transparency in the source of funds is important to avoid delays or denials during the application process.
Legal and personal requirements:
Applicants must not have a history of criminal activity, as good moral character is an essential requirement. Additionally, they must be in good health and capable of undergoing the U.S. immigration process without presenting a public charge risk. There are no specific age or language requirements, making the program accessible to a broad range of investors.
Family inclusion:
The EB-5 program also allows applicants to include their spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 in their application. This feature makes it an attractive option for families seeking to relocate to the U.S. Meeting the eligibility requirements for the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is essential for securing both financial and immigration success.