For those wishing to invest in the United States, it may be possible to obtain an EB-5 visa as an Employment Fifth Preference investor. Individuals who utilize this path are often known as immigrant entrepreneurs or immigrant investors. Their goal is to start a business in the United States.
To do this, they have to demonstrate that they are going to invest a specific minimum amount of money in their new business venture, and they cannot borrow money in order to do this. In most cases, the threshold is a minimum of $1 million. But in a Targeted Employment Area, it is lowered to just $500,000.
A Targeted Employment Area, or TEA, is a location that already has a relatively high unemployment rate. These are usually rural areas, as opposed to investing in a populated urban center. The goal is to bring jobs specifically to those who need them in areas where those jobs are not already present.
Are there any other qualifications?
Yes, within two years after the business starts, it needs to create at least 10 full-time jobs. These jobs must be provided to people who are authorized immigrants, lawful permanent residents or U.S. citizens.
In addition, the jobs cannot go to those who are directly related to the investor. This includes their spouse or their children.
Again, this is to focus on the goal of growing entrepreneurship in the United States and providing jobs for Americans or those who have immigrated to the U.S. The visa is specifically being provided because the business will be positive for the American economy, bringing in revenue and creating new jobs.
For those who are interested in opening a business in the U.S., this can be a path to obtain a visa, and it is important to know exactly what legal steps to take.
