The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa offers benefits to Chinese investors as well as the United States government. If you are an investor wishing to move to the United States and eventually become a citizen, this is the fastest way to do it. You do not have to worry about language requirements, quotas or sponsorship. Your spouse gains permanent residency at the same time you do, as do your children if they are under age 21.
Additionally, according to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, your investment of capital to create jobs in the U.S. helps to stimulate the economy. While the EB-5 visa can make your immigration path easier, there are still eligibility requirements you have to meet.
How much do you have to invest to qualify for the EB-5?
According to York College, it depends on where you choose to invest. If you are investing in an area of high unemployment, referred to as a Targeted Employment Area, the minimum required amount is $500,000. Otherwise, you must make an investment of at least $1 million.
The investment does not have to take the form of cash. It can also be tangible property, such as inventory or equipment, of equivalent value.
What kinds of businesses can you invest in?
You must invest in a new commercial enterprise, which is either an entirely new company or an existing business that is going through an expansion.
What are the job creation requirements?
Within two years of your admission, your investment must either create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for qualifying workers in the United States. This includes indirect job creation.
An EB-5 visa gives you the choice of where you want to live and work in the United States upon admission.