In order for an applicant to qualify under the Regular investment immigration program, the following three basic requirements must be met:

1. Investment in a new commercial enterprise
2. Investment of at least $1 million (or $500,000 in certain cases) into the business, and
3. Creation of employment for at least 10 full-time U.S. workers.

The investment may consist of various forms of capital, such as cash (including a gift or loan), equipment, inventory, property, and other tangible equivalents. An investment amount of $1 million is generally the minimum. However, $500,000 is acceptable if the business is situated in a “targeted” employment area, i.e., one that has experienced unemployment of at least 150 per cent of the national average rate or a rural area.

What are Investment Immigration Regional Centers?

Investment Immigration Regional Centers are entities, organizations or agencies that focus on a specific geographic area within the United States in order to promote economic growth there. Most Regional Centers are in targeted employment areas, i.e., areas that have an unemployment rate that is at least 1.5 times higher than the national average. Investment Immigration Regional Centers are designated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS). The Centers do not guarantee profit or the return of an investor’s principal investment.

The CIS has currently designated over 45 Regional Centers located throughout the country. Investment Immigration Regional Center opportunities range from investing in real estate projects to dairy farms. Click here for a full list of approved Regional Centers.

What are the Benefits of Using Investment Immigration Regional Center Projects?

Every year, 3,000 EB-5 Green Cards are set aside for immigrants who are willing to make an investment in an approved Investment Immigration Regional Center. Benefits include:

• Generally less up-front investment capital is needed ($500,000 versus $1 million USD)
• No day-to-day management required
• The jobs created from the investment can be direct or indirect
• The investor can live and work anywhere in the U.S.
• The investor can be retired

There are over 45 Regional Centers available for selection. Investment immigration attorney Mark Ivener is available to discuss the different centers when you schedule a free consultation.

To learn more about EB-5, read the Frequently Asked Questions section which may answer your initial questions.

To learn more about the EB-5 Green Card program, schedule a free consultation with EB-5 Green Card attorney Mark Ivener. Your total investment will vary with your investment choice, your due diligence, and other factors.