If you wish to invest in a business in the United States, you may apply for an employment-based investor’s visa. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website lists the eligibility requirements of an EB-5 immigrant investors’ Green Card.
Before applying for a Green Card, you may file a Form I-526 to visit the U.S. as an entrepreneur. During your visit, you could find a suitable business to invest in. You may then submit a Form I-485 to register as a permanent resident.
Capital requirements for an investor’s visa
To qualify for an EB-5 immigrant investors’ visa, the law requires investing at least $1,050,000 in a new business or commercial enterprise. As noted on the USCIS.gov website, you may invest money or assets into an enterprise that conducts lawful business activities.
You may, for example, invest in joint ventures, real estate holding companies or private partnerships. Your investment, however, must allow for at least 10 new full-time employees. You may also invest in a business that increases the net worth of current employees by at least 40%.
Investments in targeted areas could help obtain an EB-5 visa
If you find a business opportunity located in a “targeted” employment area, however, you only need to invest at least $800,000. As described by the USCIS, a “targeted” area is generally rural or located outside of a major metropolitan area. A rural area, for example, may have less than 20,000 residents. You may also invest in a business located in an area that has an unemployment rate of at least 150% of the nation’s average.
Obtaining an EB-5 visa requires meeting certain conditions. The application must provide all the needed details and include a range of supporting documents.