The unofficial term “golden visa” generally refers to programs that grant residency or citizenship to individuals who make significant investments in a country. While the United States does not officially use this term, the nation offers several pathways for foreign investors and business owners to obtain visas through substantial investments.
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program
The closest U.S. equivalent to a golden visa is the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. Established in 1990, this program allows investors, along with their spouses and unmarried children under 21, to apply for permanent residency (a Green Card). However, to qualify, you usually need to invest around a million dollars and create or maintain at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. Through job creation and capital investment from foreign investment, the program is intended to boost the economy.
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
Another option is the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa. First, this is only available to nationals from specific countries. Second, to qualify, like the EB-5, an investor must make a substantial investment in a bona fide U.S. enterprise, and the investor can then enter the U.S. to develop and direct the investment. However, the E-2 visa does not directly lead to a Green Card, but it can be renewed indefinitely as long as the investment enterprise remains viable.
L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa
The L-1 Visa is another option for business owners and executives. This visa allows executives or managers of a foreign company to transfer to a U.S. branch, subsidiary or affiliate. The establishment of a new office in the United States. The L-1 visa can lead to permanent residency through the EB-1C category for multinational executives or managers.
In addition to these options, other investment-based pathways are also available. These include the EB-1C Visa, which is for multinational executives and managers, and the EB-2 National Interest Waiver, which is for individuals whose work significantly benefits the U.S.
While the U.S. does not have an official golden visa program, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program and other investment-related visas offer viable options for foreign investors seeking to live and work in the United States. These programs are designed to attract foreign capital and foster economic growth and provide substantial opportunities for those willing to invest in the U.S. economy.
