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Investing in the United States to obtain a permanent visa typically involves the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. This program allows foreign investors to apply for a green card (permanent residency) if they make a qualifying investment in a U.S. commercial enterprise that creates or preserves at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. The minimum investment amount required varies depending on whether the investment is made in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or a non-TEA. As of 2024, the minimum investment is $1.8 million for a standard investment and $900,000 for investments in TEAs, which are areas with high unemployment rates or rural areas.
Investors must demonstrate that their investment funds were obtained lawfully and that they are actively investing in a new commercial enterprise or a troubled business within the United States. The investment must also lead to the creation or preservation of jobs for U.S. workers. Once the investment is made and the necessary documentation is submitted, investors can file an I-526 petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Upon approval of the I-526 petition, investors and their immediate family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21) can apply for conditional permanent residency through consular processing if they are outside the U.S. or adjustment of status if they are already in the U.S.
Conditional permanent residency is granted for a period of two years. To remove the conditions and obtain permanent residency, investors must file an I-829 petition within 90 days before the two-year anniversary of obtaining conditional residency. They must demonstrate that the investment was sustained throughout the conditional residency period and that the jobs creation requirement was met.
It's crucial for investors to work with experienced immigration attorneys and financial advisors familiar with the EB-5 program to navigate the complexities of the process and ensure compliance with all requirements and regulations.https://citizenshipconsultants.com/
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