Acquiring US citizenship through investment, commonly known as the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, provides a unique pathway for individuals seeking permanent residency and eventual citizenship in the United States. Understanding the basics of USA citizenship by investment is crucial for prospective investors aiming to steer the process effectively.

Understand the EB-5 program requirements:

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program requires foreign investors to make a substantial investment in a new commercial enterprise that creates or preserves at least 10 full-time jobs for qualified US workers. The minimum investment amount is $1.8 million, but it is reduced to $900,000 if the investment is made in a targeted employment area (TEA), which includes rural areas or regions with high unemployment rates.

Choose your investment option:

Investors have the flexibility to choose between direct investment and investment through a USCIS-designated Regional Center. Direct investment involves establishing a new commercial enterprise or investing in an existing business, while Regional Centers are entities approved by USCIS to sponsor investment projects. Each option has its own set of advantages and considerations, requiring thorough due diligence before making a decision.

Prepare and submit form I-526:

The first step in the EB-5 application process is to prepare and submit form I-526 (Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor) to USCIS. This form serves as evidence of the investor’s intention to make a qualifying investment and create the required number of jobs. Along with the form, investors must provide supporting documentation, including proof of investment funds and a broad business plan for the commercial enterprise.

Conditional permanent residency:

Upon approval of Form I-526, investors and their eligible family members are granted conditional permanent residency in the United States for a period of two years. During this conditional residency period, investors are required to fulfill the investment and job creation requirements outlined in their Form I-526 petition.

Removal of conditions:

Within the 90-day period preceding the second anniversary of obtaining conditional permanent residency, investors must file Form I-829 (Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions) to remove the conditions on their residency. This form requires evidence demonstrating that the investment was sustained, and the requisite jobs were created or preserved. Upon approval of Form I-829, investors and their families become lawful permanent residents (green card holders) of the United States.