EB-5 Visa : Dreams of a life in the United States, with its promises of prosperity, educational excellence, and healthcare access, have long beckoned individuals from across the globe. For many, obtaining a U.S. green card is the ultimate ticket to a lifetime of opportunities. While the traditional green card application process can be a time-consuming journey, there’s a faster route that’s making waves among aspiring immigrants: the EB-5 Visa Program.
EB-5 Program: A Shortcut to the American Dream
Established in 1990, the EB-5 Visa program isn’t just about immigration; it’s an economic catalyst designed to invigorate the U.S. economy. It offers a pathway to lawful permanent residency (green card) for foreign investors who are willing to invest a minimum capital of $800,000 in a target employment area (TEA). A TEA is either a rural region or an area with high unemployment. The investment must be “at risk” and must directly lead to the creation or preservation of at least 10 full-time jobs for qualified U.S. workers within two years.
The Promise of EB-5 Visa: Conditional Green Cards
The EB-5 program doesn’t just grant a green card; it offers investors and their immediate family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21) conditional green cards. After a two-year period, during which the investment and job creation requirements must be maintained, investors can apply to remove the conditions from their green cards, securing permanent residency in the United States.
Reviving the Indian Dream with the Reform and Integrity Act of 2022
The EB-5 program has experienced a resurgence in India, thanks to the Reform and Integrity Act of 2022. This groundbreaking law created set-aside visa categories for rural and high-unemployment TEA projects, allowing new investors to bypass lengthy visa processing delays. Furthermore, the Act introduced integrity measures that provide investor safeguards, enhancing the program’s appeal.
Two Faces of the EB-5 Market: H1-B Visa Holders and Education Seekers
The largest segment of EB-5 applicants currently comes from H1-B visa holders in the U.S. The lengthy wait for a green card for Indian H1-B holders has driven many to opt for the EB-5 Visa program, granting them the freedom to switch jobs or start their own businesses. These applicants are well-versed in the U.S. immigration system and conduct thorough due diligence before investing.
On the other hand, the Indian market for EB-5 Visa primarily consists of parents with children studying in the U.S. Their aim is to unite their families or sponsor their children to remain in the U.S. post-graduation.
Expediting Your American Dream
Certain EB-5 Visa investments qualify for expedited processing due to their alignment with the national interest. This is a significant advantage as standard processing times can take several years. An expedited process can lead to a petitioner obtaining a green card in a year or less.
One notable example is EB5 Coast to Coast, which has funded eight addiction treatment centers with EB-5 capital. These facilities meet the immigration agency’s definition of national interest, given the ongoing opioid crisis in America. Remarkably, all investors were approved for expedited processing.
Also Read : USCIS : Progresses on H-1B Reforms