The EB-5 regional center pilot program which is due to end in 2012, provides the applicant, their spouse and unmarried children under 21 with permanent residence in the USA in return for an investment of $ 500,000 in a Government approved regional center program.
Evaluation of the program over the past five years and discussions with successful applicants from many countries all over the world have identified the following benefits of the program:-
Legal permanent residents admitted through the EB-5 Investor Program can enjoy many of the benefits of United States born residents. (However they cannot vote or stand for elected office, so don’t expect to become President!).
Permanent residency requires no renewal or re-application (other than the removal of conditions at I-829 stage). Other U.S. non-immigrant visas, such as E-2 and H1B, often never result in permanent residency, have time limits and require additional filing with USCIS, the Department of State and can require travel to the US consulate in your home country every few years.
The United States is considered by many, particularly from countries suffering civic unrest or a non democratic government, a safe haven for their family. Any member of the family granted a Green Card can come into the U.S. at any time and stay as long as they wish (subject to certain conditions regarding length of time when they leave the USA).
EB-5 investors have constant easy access to the United States for personal and business purpose which can provides additional safety for your investments
Permanent residents can travel to the U.S. without the need of a visa. (they will need their green card) EB-5 investors may live, retire work, or own their own business anywhere in the United States.
The U.S. has internationally recognized colleges and universities for both basic education and graduate study. These do vary enormously so it’s worth seeking advice on this point. As a resident the investor can benefit from lower tuition costs, particularly in your state of residence.
The cost of living in the U.S. is often less than other nations. Consumer goods, services and housing can be considerably less expensive than comparable goods and services in many other countries.
Students may work in the U.S. while they attend college and thus help to offset tuition costs. They may also continue to work afterwards.
The U.S. provides many financial, social and education entitlements: public schools, education and after a period of contributions, medical and social security benefits.
The EB-5 investor can apply for US citizenship five years after relocating to the US as legal permanent residents subject to successfully satisfying certain conditions.
The records of the government approved regional centers that qualify under the EB-5 visa vary considerably, it is important to obtain the latest independent information if this visa is of interest to you.
More details on the EB-5 investment visa and green card are available at Which EB5 where, If you are seriously considering the EB5 visa, you can get a free evaluation of your case by a leading immigration attorney.