Immigrant Investors, EB-5 Visa Eligibility

In order to encourage entrepreneurship from around the globe, 10,000 immigrant visas are available every year through the federal government for people who are seeking permanent resident status while adding to our economic well being through commercial enterprise. These individuals must have invested or be in the process of investing in a business. The minimum investment is usually $1,000,000 and can be used to start a new business, buy an existing business and restructure it so that a new business results, or expand an existing business.

The minimum investment is significantly lowered to $500,000 though in "targeted employment areas." These areas are defined as either "rural areas"-outside of a Metropolitan Statistical Area or the outer boundaries of a town with a population of 20,000 or more-or "high unemployment areas"-unemployment rate of 15% or greater.

Commercial investors must employ at least 10 qualified individuals or maintain the existing employees at a "troubled" business. If applicants show that they meet the requirements they may be granted a two-year conditional permanent resident status. This process can lead to a green card and then possibly, US citizenship. For more information, go to the California EB-5 Investor Visa Program site.

It is important to note though, that the program is a federal program and the State of California only plays a role in designating "High employment areas." For complete information, visit the USCIS home page.