5 Frequently Asked Questions About EB-5
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program provides a pathway to U.S. permanent residency through investment in a U.S. business. As this visa is a complex and significant process, prospective investors often have many questions. Below are some frequently asked questions to help clarify the most common aspects of the EB5 in Dubai process.
What is the minimum investment requirement for the EB-5 visa?
The EB-5 visa requires a minimum investment of $1.05 million in a U.S. business. However, if the investment is made in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA)—which includes rural areas or areas with high unemployment—the minimum investment drops to $800,000. This reduced amount is designed to encourage investment in regions that benefit from job creation and economic growth.
What type of businesses can I invest in for the EB-5 visa?
Eligible investments must be made in a new commercial enterprise. This could be a business that was established after November 29, 1990, or an existing business that has been restructured or expanded to meet the EB-5 requirements. Applicants can choose between a direct investment in a business and an investment through a USCIS-approved Regional Center. Regional Centers are designed to pool funds from multiple investors to finance larger projects, often with less involvement required from the investor.
What are the job creation requirements for the EB-5 visa?
One of the key requirements of the EB-5 program is that the investment must create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. These jobs must be created within two years of the investor’s green card approval. If investing through a Regional Center, the job creation requirement is often met indirectly, as jobs are counted across the entire project.
How long does the EB-5 process take?
The EB-5 process typically takes between 18 to 24 months from the filing of the initial petition to receiving the conditional green card. However, this timeline can vary depending on the processing times at USCIS and the specifics of the investor’s case. Once the investor has held the green card for two years, they can apply to remove the conditions, which can take additional time.
Can my family join me in the EB-5 application?
Yes, the EB-5 visa allows the investor’s immediate family members—spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old—to be included in the application. This makes the program an attractive option for families seeking to gain U.S. residency together.
