Entrepreneurs and investors may obtain permanent residency in the United States by qualifying for the EB-5 Program. The U.S. Department of State’s website notes that visas could go to applicants who have the ability to start new businesses that support the U.S. economy.
Some investors may prefer to obtain a visa by investing in a regional center program. As reported by QZ.com, regional centers offer investment opportunities backed by government agencies and real estate developers. Investors with credit and strong finances may access these programs to qualify for U.S. residency.
EB-5 program visa requirements
As detailed on the USCIS.gov website, investing a minimum amount of $1,800,000 in a new commercial enterprise could qualify for acceptance in the EB-5 visa program. If you plan to open a business in a rural location or an area with a high rate of unemployment, you may apply for an EB-5 visa with only $900,000.
Your investment must, however, create a minimum of 10 new and full-time jobs in your proposed commercial venture. The new employees must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents or have legal authorization for full-time U.S. employment. You may need to create a business plan outlining how your enterprise will create new jobs after its launch.
Documents showing investor qualifications
When applying for an investor’s visa, you must provide documents showing your intent to invest in a U.S. commercial enterprise. According to the Citizenship and Immigration Services’ website, officials require proof of your intention to manage the day-to-day operations of the new business. Some investors could also qualify with plans of controlling a new company’s policy formations.
Before submitting a petition for an investor’s visa, you may need to gather several documents about your new business. Financial records, bank statements and plans for managing your workforce may offer assurances of your venture’s success.
