Application for an EB-5 Visa can be simple if you meet the requirements. An EB5 regional center can help you understand and navigate the application process and the documents you need to obtain permanent residence. Here’s how to apply for an EB-5 visa.
Prepare All the Requirements
You need to have all the requirements necessary to get an EB-5 visa when making an application. Below are some of the core requirements you’ll need to meet when applying for an EB-5 visa.
Investment Requirement
Under the EB-5 immigration program, you and your family are eligible for an EB-5 visa if you invest in commercial enterprises in the USA. You can choose between two investment options that include:
- At least $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA): You need to invest in a rural area with a very high unemployment rate or in a government-approved program. An EB5 regional center can help you select an investment project within a TEA.
- At least $1,050,000 Outside a TEA: Invest in any enterprise or company of your choice as long as it meets the USCIS requirements.
Your investments need to be approved by the USCIS. This organization researches each investment case to ascertain that you have legally acquired your money. Invest in an enterprise that is “for-profit” and one that was created after 1990 as per the USCIS requirements.
You could take a loan if you do not have the required funds. USCIS now allows loans to be used as a source of financing when making an EB-5 investment. Collateral for such plans needs to be equal to the loan amount. USCIS’s best practices indicate that the loan amount should never exceed 70% of the collateral property value.
Age Requirement
There is no age limit when applying for an EB-5 visa. Anyone can apply for a visa as long as they are not below 18 years of age. Minors do not have income or assets and thus cannot be eligible on their own. Parents or guardians can act on their behalf by making the necessary investments and preparing all documents required for the visa application.
EB5 Regional Center: Application Process
Once you have all the requirements ready, start the application process; use an 1-526 form to apply to the USCIS. It reviews your application and then forwards it to the National Visa Center (NVC).
The NVC then contacts and requests that you pay the necessary fee and submit your documents. It schedules your interview at the US embassy and informs you of the meeting details (time, venue, and what you should bring to the meeting). The US embassy grants you an immigrant investor visa (2-year conditional residency) if you meet all the requirements.
During the 2-year residency period, you must remain physically present in the USA for more than one year. If you reside outside the USA for more than a year, you need a re-entry permit.
File an I-829 petition to become an unconditional permanent resident. The 1-829 approval grants you and your family 10-year green cards that can be renewed.
Apply for Your EB-5 Visa
If you’ve been planning to apply for an EB-5 Visa, now is the time. Working with professionals throughout your application process makes it easy. They guide you on the documents and fees required at every step.
Work with an EB5 regional center to guide you on the suitable investment strategies to qualify for an EB-5 visa. Apply to the USCIS and schedule an interview for your EB-5 visa. You receive a 2-year conditional residency permit if you meet all the USCIS requirements. File an I-829 petition for a permanent residency in the US.
