Navigating the path from temporary status to a Green Card can be a challenging journey, but for many individuals, the EB-5 Investor Visa provides a viable solution. This program offers foreign nationals an opportunity to obtain lawful permanent residency by investing in a U.S. business that creates jobs for American workers.

Understanding the EB-5 Investor Visa

The EB-5 Visa requires a minimum investment of $1.05 million in a new commercial enterprise. However, if the investment is made in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA)—an area with high unemployment or a rural area—the required investment drops to $800,000. According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), this visa not only helps stimulate the economy but also provides a pathway to permanent residency (USCIS, n.d.).

Transitioning from Temporary Status

Individuals currently in the U.S. on a temporary visa, such as an H-1B or L-1 visa, can take advantage of the EB-5 Visa program. By investing the requisite funds and meeting job creation requirements, they can apply for a Green Card. The investment must lead to the creation or preservation of at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers within two years.

Success Stories

1. Tech Startup in Silicon Valley: A client from India, initially on an H-1B visa, invested $800,000 in a tech startup located in a TEA. The investment not only provided him with permanent residency but also allowed him to contribute to the vibrant technology sector in California.
2. Hospitality Project in Miami: Another client from Brazil, who held temporary status, invested in a new hotel project in Miami, creating jobs for local residents. This investment led to a successful EB-5 application, enabling the client and their family to secure Green Cards.