When you first start your EB5 green card process, you may not know where to start. Working with a regional center will help you determine what you need to do. Here are some tips to get you started:
Understand the Program
Before you begin the application process, you will need to have a thorough understanding of the EB5 green card program. The program requires individuals to invest a specified amount of capital in a new commercial enterprise that creates jobs for U.S. workers. The minimum investment amount varies depending on the location of the investment but generally ranges from $800,000 to $1.05 million. Familiarize yourself with the program requirements before getting started, including job creation and investment criteria.
Seek Legal Advice
Navigating the immigration process can be challenging on your own, so you may need to consult with an experienced immigration attorney who specializes in the EB5 program. An attorney can guide you through the application process. Attorneys can verify that you’re in compliance with all legal requirements and answer any questions or concerns you may have. Consider working with a regional center that has worked with investors like yourself.
Conduct Due Diligence
Research regional centers in the area you are considering immigrating to. Regional centers are designated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and can provide investment opportunities that meet the job creation requirements. Evaluate their track record, investment options, and success rate in getting EB5 approvals. Choose a reputable regional center or investment project that aligns with your investment goals.
Gather Funds and Make the Investment
Once you’ve chosen a regional center or investment project, it’s time to make the investment. Your attorney or regional center can verify that the investment is in accordance with the EB5 program’s guidelines. Be sure to maintain correct records of your investment and financial transactions in regard to the investment amount. Monitoring your financial records will help with your green card application.
File the I-526E Petition
After you have made the investment amount through a regional center or another project, you can file the I-525 E. This petition establishes your eligibility for the program and that your investment meets the program’s requirements. Your regional center can assist you in preparing the necessary documents. Some of these documents may include the business plan, investment agreement, and other supporting evidence. Once your petition is filed with the USCIS, you may receive a notice acknowledging its submission.
Receive a Conditional Green Card
If your I-526E petition is approved, you’ll receive a conditional green card. This conditional status allows you to live and work in the United States. During this period, maintain compliance with the program’s requirements, including job creation and investment obligations. Inform your immigration attorney of the progress of your EB5 investment project to determine the best next step.
File I-829 Petition
Within the 90-day period before your conditional green card expires, you’ll begin to file the I-829 petition. This petition removes the conditions on your green card and grants you permanent residency. Your immigration attorney or regional center can assist you in gathering the necessary documentation to demonstrate job creation and the fulfillment of investment obligations.
Get Permanent Residency
Once the USCIS approves your I-829 petition, you’ll receive a permanent green card, which grants you permanent residency in the United States. This status provides you with the choice to live, work, and study anywhere in the country.
After you’ve lived within the United States for a certain amount of time, typically five years, you may be eligible for citizenship. This process can involve filing an application, attending an interview, and passing a citizenship test. Your immigration attorney or regional center can guide you through the naturalization process. This process helps you achieve the goal of becoming a U.S. citizen.
Start the EB5 Green Card Process Today
The EB5 green card process can be simplified when you work with an immigration attorney and a regional center. You, your spouse, and your immediate family can immigrate to the United States through the EB5 green card program. Start preparing your documents for the first step in the EB5 process. Contact a regional center and an immigration attorney to learn more about how to start your path to permanent residency.