The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is emerging as a major pathway for affluent individuals and families seeking permanent residence in the United States, providing a structured path to a green card through capital investment.This program, designed to stimulate the U.S. economy by creating jobs and attracting foreign capital, does not require employer sponsorship or specific educational qualifications.
What is the EB-5 visa?
Under the EB-5 program, applicants are required to invest a minimum of $800,000 (about Rs 7.35 crore) in an eligible project, usually located in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or infrastructure project. For non-TEA projects, the minimum investment increases to $1.05 million. Investments are typically locked in for four to five years, after which the capital can be returned, ET reported.This visa is suitable for US college students, international professionals, entrepreneurs, business owners, and families, as it allows investors, their spouses, and unmarried children under the age of 21 to obtain permanent residence.Shilpa Menon, managing director-commercial, LCR Capital Partners, was quoted by ET as saying, “The EB-5 program provides a direct path to a US green card for the investor, their spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 in exchange for an eligible investment in a government-approved project that creates at least 10 jobs in the US economy.”
Cost, Documentation and Taxation
In addition to the main investment, applicants will also need to account for additional expenses. These include US Citizenship and Immigration Services filing fees of $22,750 to $24,395, legal fees of approximately $25,000 to $30,000, and administrative fees depending on the project. The net additional cost typically falls between $70,000 and $80,000.US authorities closely scrutinize the source of the money, which may include savings, salaries, business income, sale of property or stock, gifts or secured loans. Cryptocurrencies are allowed only if acquired legitimately and fully converted into US dollars with clear transaction records. Incomplete documentation may result in delays or requests for additional evidence.Since US residents are taxed on worldwide income, advance tax planning is strongly advised.
Benefits and options
The program offers relatively fast processing, with a work permit possible within four to six months and a green card in about two years. It also offers educational benefits, professional flexibility, and a path to U.S. citizenship after five years of permanent residence.There are also alternative options such as the proposed Trump Gold or Platinum cards that are donation-based, ranging from $1 million to $5 million, and unlike the EB-5 route, do not offer capital returns or family coverage.