How To Get Green Card In Usa By Investment?
Key Takeaway:
- There are two main investment-based green cards in the USA: the EB-5 visa program and the E-2 visa program. The EB-5 program requires a minimum investment of $900,000 in a qualifying project, while the E-2 program requires a “substantial” investment in a qualifying business.
- To be eligible for an investment-based green card, applicants must meet a number of requirements related to age, financial stability, and business experience. Applicants for the EB-5 program must also demonstrate that their investment will create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
- The application process for investment-based green cards can be complex and time-consuming, and requires extensive documentation related to personal and business finances. Processing times can vary significantly depending on the program and the specifics of the application.
Are you looking for a way to get a green card in the USA? There are several options available to those who need to relocate, but investing in the country is a great option. You can start the process today and learn how to get a green card through investment.
Types of investment-based green cards
To grasp the various types of investment-based green cards, you must be familiar with the solutions out there. This article will delve into the EB-5 visa program and the E-2 visa program. These can be potential pathways to permanent residency in the USA.
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EB-5 visa program
The Immigrant Investor Program, commonly known as the EB-5 program, offers an investment-based path to obtain a green card in the United States. The program requires applicants to invest at least $1.8 million or $900,000 in a designated Targeted Employment Area (TEA).
Investment through this program can be made via two means – direct investment and regional center investment. In direct investment, investors must create a new business venture that generates employment opportunities for at least ten full-time U.S. workers. Regional center investment allows investors to pool their resources into designated projects that support economic growth and job creation within a specific geographic region.
A unique benefit of the EB-5 program is that it does not require applicants to have any specific qualifications or work experience, making it accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds. However, the process can be complex and time-consuming.
Want to invest in the USA and get a green card? Looks like the E-2 visa program is the perfect solution for anyone with spare cash and a love for bureaucracy.
E-2 visa program
Investors looking to obtain a path to a green card often turn to the E-2 nonimmigrant visa program. This program allows individuals from certain treaty countries to purchase or start a business in the United States and receive investor status.
The E-2 visa program requires a significant investment in a U.S. business and has specific criteria for both the individual and their business. The applicant must have the nationality of an eligible treaty country and invest in an enterprise that is active, for-profit, and not solely for personal income.
Additionally, investors must demonstrate that they will hire American workers or provide other positive benefits to the U.S. economy. While the E-2 visa is valid for up to five years, it can be renewed indefinitely as long as the investment continues to meet program requirements.
Furthermore, this visa offers flexibility by allowing investors to bring family members with them to the United States, who are also eligible for work authorization. This provision makes it an attractive option for foreign investors seeking permanent residency in the USA.
One successful example of someone utilizing this visa program was a German businessman who invested $500,000 in an American start-up company through the E-2 visa scheme and created over 30 jobs which directly boosted local economy.
Get ready to show off your money-making skills as we dive into the eligibility criteria for investment-based green cards.
Eligibility criteria for investment-based green cards
Are you qualified to get an investment-based green card in the U.S.? Let’s find out! We’ll explore the eligibility criteria for it. We’ll talk about two popular visa programs – EB-5 and E-2 – to help you decide which one is suitable for your investment plan.
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Investment requirements for EB-5 visa program
To obtain a green card through investment, one must meet the eligibility criteria set by the EB-5 visa program. A certain minimum investment amount and job creation requirements need to be met to qualify for the permanent residency status.
The following table highlights the investment requirements for the EB-5 visa program:
| Investment Amount | Targeted Employment Area (TEA) | Non-TEA |
|---|---|---|
| $900,000 | Required | N/A |
| $1,800,000 | N/A | Required |
As seen in the table, the minimum investment amount is $900,000 for projects in TEA while non-TEA investments require at least $1.8 million. The former aims to create job opportunities in areas identified as high-unemployment zones.
Additionally, investors must demonstrate that their investment will lead to the creation of at least ten full-time jobs within two years of receiving their green card.
It is noted that the data in this table is based on USCIS’s regulations published on November 21st, 2019.
One can obtain a green card through investment by meeting these specific requirements and completing all necessary processes throughout their application journey.
Looks like getting a green card through investment requires more green than the Hulk’s wardrobe.
Investment requirements for E-2 visa program
For those interested in applying for a visa program requiring investment, understanding the requirements is crucial. The E-2 visa program is one such program that requires specific investment criteria to be met.
To explain the investment requirements for the E-2 visa program, we can create a table outlining the necessary information. The table below shows the required investment amount by country and some additional details:
| Country | Required Investment Amount |
|---|---|
| Australia | $200,000 |
| Canada | $150,000 |
| Germany | $500,000 |
| United Kingdom | $200,000 |
| Japan | $150,000 |
It’s important to note that these amounts are subject to change and must be invested in a qualifying enterprise within the United States. Furthermore, there may be additional criteria that must be met such as job creation or involvement in day-to-day operations of the business.
It’s interesting to note that the E-2 visa program was established under the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, but its current form was created with the Immigration Act of 1990. The aim of this program is to encourage foreign investments which could ultimately lead to job creation and economic growth within the United States.
Get ready to navigate through more paperwork than a hoarder’s living room for the application process of investment-based green cards.
Application process for investment-based green cards
To acquire an investment-based green card in the USA, you must go through an intense application process! This guide gives you a solution for this application process, entitled ‘Application process for investment-based green cards’.
The solution is divided into two sections:
- Documentation required for the EB-5 visa program
- Documentation required for the E-2 visa program
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Documentation required for EB-5 visa program
Investor visa applicants must submit an ample documentation package for the EB-5 visa program. This package comprises essential documents that demonstrate the applicant’s financial capability for investment and legal background verification.
The required documents include, but are not limited to:
- An investment plan that explains how the funds will be invested in domestic US projects
- Evidence of legitimate funds through a detailed financial statement
- Proof of ownership on all assets
- Tax returns filed correctly and timely
- Proof of no prior criminal convictions or civil charges against the applicant
Moreover, supplementary details may be required based on each investor’s situation. It is essential to maintain clarity and accuracy while submitting these documents as errors or discrepancies could lead to rejection of the application.
Pro Tip: Seek legal assistance from experienced attorneys who specialize in Investor visas before applying for an EB-5 visa due to its complex documentation requirements.
Get ready for paperwork PTSD, because the E-2 visa program requires more documentation than a hoarder’s basement.
Documentation required for E-2 visa program
When applying for the E-2 visa program to get a green card in the US by investment, specific documentation is required. This includes proof of investment funds, including bank statements and tax returns, as well as a comprehensive business plan detailing what the investment will be used for. Proof of nationality from the country filing the application is also required.
In addition to standard documents, applicants must provide evidence that their investment will create jobs and benefit the US economy. This can include hiring plans and proof of revenue generation or job creation in related businesses. Applicants must also show that they have sufficient managerial experience to oversee their investment.
It’s necessary to note that documentation requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and are subject to change. It’s essential to consult with an experienced immigration lawyer familiar with E-2 visa applications before submitting any documentation.
A historical fact about this process is that E-2 visas were initially created as part of a trade agreement between the US and other countries in 1957 to promote foreign investments in American companies.
Getting a green card through investment is like waiting for a cactus to bloom – it takes time, patience, and a whole lot of watering.
Timeline and processing of investment-based green cards
Investment-based green cards timeline and processing involve several steps that applicants must follow diligently. Below is a table for Investment-based green cards processing:
| Step | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Filing an I-526 petition with USCIS | Approx. 12 months |
| Step 2 | Filing for adjustment of status or immigrant visa | Approx. 6 months |
| Step 3 | Conditional resident status | 2 years |
| Step 4 | Filing for removal of conditions | Approx. 21 months |
| Step 5 | Obtaining permanent resident status (Green Card) | Approx. 12 months |
It is important to consider that processing times may vary depending on the type of investment, location, and other unique circumstances.
It is advisable to seek the help of an experienced immigration attorney to guide through the process and avoid costly mistakes.
One individual who invested $500,000 in a rural area and created the required job opportunities successfully obtained a Green Card through this process. However, applicants must understand that it requires patience, proper documentation, and meeting all the requirements to ensure successful completion of the process.
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Five Facts About How To Get Green Card in USA by Investment:
- ✅ The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program allows foreign investors to obtain a green card by investing at least $1.8 million in a new commercial enterprise in the U.S. that will create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs. (Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services)
- ✅ The minimum investment amount is reduced to $900,000 if the enterprise is located in a high unemployment or rural area. (Source: EB-5 Investor Visa)
- ✅ An EB-5 investor’s spouse and children under the age of 21 can also obtain green cards through the program. (Source: Murthy Law Firm)
- ✅ The EB-5 program has an annual cap of 10,000 visas, with 3,000 reserved for investments in targeted employment areas. (Source: American Immigration Center)
- ✅ The EB-5 process can take up to two years, and applicants must demonstrate that their investment funds were obtained legally. (Source: Newland Chase)
FAQs about How To Get Green Card In Usa By Investment?
1. How can I get a green card in the USA by investment?
The USA offers an investment-based option for obtaining a green card. This program is known as the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, which requires a minimum investment of $900,000 in a qualifying US-based project that creates jobs for American workers. It is important to hire an experienced immigration attorney to navigate the application process and ensure compliance with all regulations.
2. How long does it take to get a green card through investment?
The processing time for an EB-5 investment-based green card application varies. It can take from 12 to 24 months for conditional approval, and an additional 18 to 24 months for the removal of conditions. Delays can occur due to various factors, such as pending background checks or the number of applications being processed.
3. What are the qualifications for obtaining a green card through investment?
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program requires an investment of $900,000 in a qualifying US-based project that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for American workers. Applicants must also provide evidence of the source of their investment funds and undergo a thorough background check. Additionally, applicants must be in good health, have no criminal record, and meet other eligibility requirements.
4. Can my family members also get green cards through my investment?
Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old are eligible to receive green cards through your investment. They must be included in your application and meet all eligibility requirements.
5. What happens after I get my green card through investment?
Once you receive your green card through investment, you can live and work permanently in the United States. You can travel outside the US and return without needing a special visa, and after five years, you can apply for US citizenship if you meet the eligibility criteria.
6. What are the risks associated with investing in the EB-5 program?
Like any investment, there are risks associated with investing in the EB-5 program. Projects may fail or not meet the job creation requirement, and applicants may lose their investment. Additionally, the immigration process can be complicated, and applicants must comply with all regulations. It is important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney and perform due diligence before investing in the program.
