United States of America
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USA: Residence by Investment Overview
The USA remains a highly sought-after destination for investors, offering the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program as a streamlined pathway to permanent resident status (a green card) in a relatively short timeframe.
Residence by Investment in the USA
The United States is a preferred destination for migrants and investors globally. Given its complex immigration system, it’s essential to carefully evaluate individual circumstances to identify the best immigration route.
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program provides an appealing option for investors seeking residency. Under this program, you may obtain permanent resident status (a green card) by making a qualifying investment.
Regional Center Program
A specific number of visas are allocated for applicants under the Regional Center Program. There are designated regional centers across the USA, each focusing on different industries and geographic areas. Applicants typically invest $800,000 into a designated regional center project, becoming limited partners in the new enterprise.
Key Benefits:
- Investors can benefit from indirect job creation, meaning they do not need to hire 10 employees directly.
- Day-to-day management of the investment is handled by the regional centers, allowing investors the flexibility to live and work anywhere in the USA.
- There are no requirements regarding age, language, or previous business experience. However, applicants must have a net worth exceeding $1 million and must provide proof that their funds come from legal sources.
Compass can assist international clients in selecting the most suitable regional center and managing their applications.
Path to Citizenship
After five years of legal residence from the date of receiving the conditional green card, it is possible to apply for US citizenship and obtain a passport, granting the holder the protection of one of the world’s most powerful countries. There are four primary ways to acquire US citizenship:
- By birth in the USA or its territories (jus soli).
- By birth outside the USA to US parents.
- By naturalization after fulfilling residency requirements.
The USA is a premier destination for international investors. The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers an efficient roadmap to permanent resident status
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the United States residence by investment program?
The program, also known as the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, allows individuals and their families to obtain residency through significant investments that create jobs for the US economy.
What investment options are available?
Applicants must invest in a new commercial enterprise associated with government-approved regional centers and create or maintain 10 full-time jobs for eligible US workers.
What are the advantages of acquiring US residence through investment?
Benefits include the right to live, work, and study in the USA, visa-free travel to many countries, and access to world-class healthcare, schools, and universities.
What is the minimum investment requirement?
The minimum investment starts at $800,000 for targeted employment areas.
How long does the application process take?
Processing times typically range from 12 to 36 months.
What are the residency requirements?
Applicants must spend at least 183 days in the US each year until they obtain unconditional green card status if they wish to apply for citizenship.
What are the required documents?
Required documents include a valid passport, proof of investment, a clean criminal record, and other supporting documents.
Is it possible to obtain US citizenship through this program?
Yes, investors may apply for US citizenship after maintaining residence for five years.
What is the application process?
Applicants must make a qualifying investment, submit the application with necessary documents, and undergo a due diligence process. Initially, they receive a conditional green card, which can be converted to a regular green card after two years.