Are you seeking a strategic investment prospect that not only offers security and capitalises on the Dollar hedge, but also paves the way to U.S. permanent residency? The EB-5 Visa Program is the answer. 12 Star Capital is here to guide you on the process of securing an EB-5 Investor Program visa and share more about the types of development projects and regions you can invest in, to secure this visa.
What is the EB-5 Visa Program?
The EB-5 Visa Program, established by the U.S. Congress, is designed to stimulate the U.S. economy by attracting foreign investment. By investing in new commercial enterprises, foreign nationals can gain U.S. permanent residency for themselves and their immediate family.
Here’s a quick overview of how it works:
- Investment requirements: To qualify, you need to invest at least $1.05 million in a new commercial enterprise. If you invest in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), which includes rural or high-unemployment areas, the investment threshold drops to $800,000.
- Job creation: Your investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
- Green Card eligibility: Upon approval, you and your family (Spouse and children under 21 years of age) receive a conditional Green Card, of which can be converted to a permanent Green Card by demonstrating that your investment meets the job creation requirements.
- Investment options: You can either invest directly in a project or through an EB-5 Regional Centre, which pools investments for larger projects.
Why choose the EB-5 Program?
The EB-5 Program provides an unparalleled advantage for investors, but its appeal is further enhanced by the strategic selection of EB-5 investment areas. Here’s why certain locations are particularly attractive:
- Economic opportunity and growth potential: High-growth metropolitan areas and emerging markets attract EB-5 investments due to their substantial potential returns. Investing in these dynamic regions means participating in their economic expansion and benefiting from the associated returns. Rural areas have seen significant growth due to quicker approvals in states such as Florida and Montana.
- Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs): TEAs are designated areas with high unemployment or rural characteristics. They offer an investment threshold of $800,000 and address critical economic and development needs.
- Urban development and revitalisation: Major cities and urban centres with ongoing or planned redevelopment projects are prime destinations for EB-5 investment. These areas often have established infrastructure and a high demand for new real estate, presenting opportunities for significant returns.
- Existing investment infrastructure: Areas with established EB-5 Regional Centres have a proven track record and experienced management teams. Investing in these regions can provide added confidence due to their successful history and robust project pipelines. In this regard, 12 Star Capital will be able to guide you and facilitate your investment journey. We have a large network of experienced industry professionals and long-standing partnerships within trusted and established EB-5 Regional Centres and developers.
- Demographic trends: Regions experiencing significant population growth or urbanisation are highly attractive for EB-5 investments. These areas offer a growing market for new developments, ensuring continued demand and potential profitability. Keeping track of demographic trends in the U.S. can benefit you in this regard. A key report that 12 Star Capital recommends is the ISG World Miami Report Q1 Update 2024. Which can be found here.
- Local government support: Local governments that offer incentives, streamlined processes, or supportive policies can make certain areas more appealing for EB-5 investments. Their commitment to economic development and job creation can enhance the success of your investment. 12 Star Capital and its partners are able to provide you with insight into state laws that are favourable to foreign investors through our on-the-ground partners within states or regions that you are interested in.
- Tourism and hospitality potential: Locations with strong tourism appeal or a vibrant hospitality sector often attract EB-5 investments in hotels, resorts, and entertainment venues. These investments not only boost local economies but also generate substantial revenue. With the potential to achieve high occupancy rates and returns for developers and investors, these regions are thriving and show a strong proven success rate for EB-5 investment.
The EB-5 Visa Program is a secure pathway to U.S. residency and provides a unique investment opportunity in some of the most dynamic and promising regions across the U.S. Whether you’re interested in bustling urban centres or revitalised rural areas, the program’s flexibility and potential for lifechanging immigration make it a compelling choice.
By investing through the EB-5 program, you’re not only gaining access to the U.S. market but also contributing to the economic growth and job creation of your chosen area. For more information and to discuss how the EB-5 program can align with your investment goals, contact us today!
