What To Know About an EB-5 Regional Center
The EB5 Immigrant Investor Program is a U.S. visa program that enables foreign investors to obtain a green card. Applicants qualify by investing in a U.S. business that creates jobs for American workers. One way to invest through the EB5 program is by working closely with an EB5 regional center.
From completing preliminary paperwork to supporting citizenship qualifications, here’s how a regional center can help you:
What Is an EB5 Regional Center?
An EB5 regional center is an organization designated by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to sponsor and manage EB5 investment projects. These projects are designed to promote economic growth and job creation within a specific geographic area.
Often, targeted areas for investment are statistically reported as low income or high unemployment. The ultimate goal of the program is to help both immigrants and U.S. citizens obtain desirable lifestyle opportunities.
How a Regional Center Works
An EB5 regional center pools funds from multiple EB5 investors. They use these funds to finance large-scale projects and create jobs within designated geographic areas. EB5 projects may include real estate development, infrastructure development, or other business ventures.
The regional center then manages the investment and verifies that the project meets the requirements of the EB5 program. They can help each investor complete the documentation required to apply for a visa. Investors and their families can also work with a regional center to qualify for permanent U.S. citizenship.
The Benefits of Working With a Regional Center
Working with an EB5 regional center can offer several benefits to investors:
Job Creation
Regional centers invest in projects that are designed to create jobs in targeted employment areas (TEAs). By investing in such projects, investors can fulfill the job creation requirements of the EB5 program. TEA projects also allow investors to qualify for lower minimum investment amounts. Standard project investments start at $1,050,000, while TEA projects lower the minimum to $800,000.
Reduced Risk
Regional centers typically perform extensive due diligence on the projects they invest in. This can help reduce any risks associated with investing in an EB5 project. Rather than risking unmet requirements or failed investments, applicants can leave project management to the regional center.
Passive Investment
One of the key advantages of working with a regional center is passive investment. Investors are not required to be actively involved in managing the project. They can live anywhere, travel to and from the United States, and focus on other aspects of life while waiting for the project’s completion.
Expertise
The EB5 application requirements are detailed and precise, which is why regional centers exist as a source of support. Staffed with experienced professionals, they help investors successfully navigate each stage of the EB5 program based on USCIS requirements.
Access to Deals
Working with a regional center can give investors access to opportunities that may not be available to independent investors. Regional centers often have extensive networks and connections that can help them identify high-quality projects. This also offers applicants greater diversification opportunities through investment in multiple projects.
Streamlined Application Process
Investors who work through a regional center are eligible for a streamlined application process. Regional centers can help expedite the application processing of TEA investors. By working closely with the USCIS, these investment experts can decrease the time it takes to obtain a visa and qualify for permanent U.S. residence.
How Do I Choose a Regional Center?
When choosing an EB5 regional center, consider factors such as the center’s reputation, the projects it has sponsored, and the level of due diligence it conducts on its investors. You can also consult with an experienced EB5 attorney or advisor to help you evaluate your options and make an informed investment decision.
Carefully review the offering documents provided by the regional center so that you understand the investment structure and fees involved. You might also consider the geographic location and industry focus of the center’s projects as well as any political or economic factors that may affect the success of the investment.
The best regional centers employ former immigrants and investors who are personally familiar with the EB5 program. Employees who have been investors and applicants in the past are a good source of support as you and your family begin this journey. Contact a local regional center today for more information about your options as a foreign investor.
