United States of America Residency

The US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a pathway to permanent residency through a minimum investment of USD 800,000, typically granting residence within 12–36 months. Another pathway, the US E-2 Non-Immigrant Visa, exceeds USD 40,000, and successful applicants typically obtain approval within 6-8 months.

The United States, a top destination for migrants and investors globally, offers diverse immigration routes tailored to individual circumstances. Through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, investors can swiftly attain permanent resident status, or a green card. This program allows investors to actively manage their own businesses in the U.S. or opt for a passive investment through a Regional Center project. Participants and their families gain the right to permanently reside, study, and work in the USA. Since its inception in 1990, the EB-5 program has provided numerous investors with the opportunity for expedited permanent residency, contributing to job creation in the U.S. The other option includes The US E2 visa. This visa enables investors to develop, manage, or direct a business enterprise in the United States as non-immigrants. Unlike the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, the E2 visa does not result in permanent residency or a green card. However, it provides a flexible and relatively straightforward method to swiftly establish a company’s presence and conduct business in the US.

The US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program

Time Frame

After submitting the application, it typically takes approximately 2-3 years to receive a Green Card.

Investment Requirement

To be eligible for the EB-5 program, individuals need to invest a minimum of $800,000 in a qualifying project within a targeted employment area (TEA), or $1.05 million outside of a TEA. The investment must create at least 10 full-time jobs for workers in the United States.

Key Benefits of a EB-5 Visa

• Remains one of the most sought-after business and lifestyle destinations globally
• Offers a range of top-tier schools and Ivy League universities nationwide
• Provides an efficient pathway to attain permanent resident status (a green card)
• Allows inclusion of a spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old
• Requires minimal application criteria, with no necessity for business experience or specific language proficiency
• Offers flexible requirements for physical presence
• Grants eligibility for citizenship after five years of legal residence

EB-5 Visa Requirements

The US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program requires foreign individuals to invest in a new commercial enterprise linked to government-approved regional centers aimed at promoting economic growth.

The following requirements apply:

Fulfill one of the options

• Investing USD 1,050,000 into a project in a non-targeted employment area
• Investing USD 800,000 into a project located in a targeted employment area with rural or high unemployment

Establishing or maintaining 10 permanent full-time jobs for qualified US workers

After the successful applicants have received a green card, the funds must stay invested until permanent resident status is granted (roughly five years). Approved applicants will receive conditional green cards for a period of two years. The conditions on the green card are then removed at the end of the two years upon demonstrating to USA immigration authorities that the jobs were, in fact, created or maintained. The transition from conditional to regular green cards does not affect what the green card holder can do in the USA. Individual applicants must have a net worth in excess of USD 1 million and provide proof that their funds come from legal sources.

Procedures and Time Frame of USA Residence by Investment

Individuals interested in the program must complete designated forms, submit applicable fees, and provide supporting documentation, including personal records, medical reports, vaccination records, certified police clearance certificates, and court records, if necessary. Typically, applicants receive their initial conditional green cards within 18 to 24 months, with the option to apply for a regular green card two years later.

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of investors can also apply for green cards without additional financial contributions, but they must submit their own documentation.

Permanent residents can reside anywhere in the United States, although their visa-free or visa-on-arrival access may be limited compared to other countries.

Green card holders seeking citizenship must have continuously resided in the United States for at least five years before naturalization, been physically present in the country for at least 30 months out of the preceding five years, and demonstrate basic proficiency in English reading, writing, and speaking. Meeting minimal additional conditions, including a civics test, is necessary to obtain citizenship.

US-E2 Non-Immigrant Visa

Time Frame

6 – 8 months

Investment Requirement

Significant Investment USD $40,000+ (Recommended)

Length of Time: Typically the visa is granted up to five years. Extensions can be requested if the investment and business meet the visa requirements.

Key Benefits of a US-E2 Non-Immigrant Visa

Flexibility: E2 visa holders can live and work within the United States, freely moving between and within the country throughout the duration of their visa.
Quick Processing: E2 visa applications are typically processed quickly compared to other immigration programs, enabling investors to establish their business presence in the US sooner.

Spousal Employment Authorization: The spouse of an E2 visa holder can actively secure work authorization in the United States, enabling them to work for any employer.
Business Opportunities: The diverse industries within the US market offer numerous business opportunities, rendering it an enticing destination for investors.

US-E2 Non-Immigrant Visa Requirements

Treaty Country Eligibility: To be eligible for a visa and fulfill the requirements, you must reside in another country that actively maintains a valid treaty of navigation and trade with the United States. It’s crucial to note that some countries may still need to negotiate and establish these agreements.

Substantial Investment: The applicant must make a significant and sufficient investment to ensure the successful operation of the business. The specific investment amount may vary depending on the nature of the company and the industry.

Direct Involvement: The applicant must actively demonstrate their intent to develop and direct the business enterprise by owning or controlling at least 50% of it.

Intent to Depart: The applicant must actively demonstrate their intention to depart the United States upon the expiration or termination of the E2 visa status.

If you would like to learn more about the US-E2 Non-Immigrant Visa or the US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Tsavorite as we would love to connect with you.