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US EB5 Visa - Residence by investment

Processing Time

12-18 months

REAL ESTATE

$ 800,000 USD

VISA-FREE ACCESS TO

180+ countries

Processing Time

12-18 months

CONTRIBUTION OR REAL ESTATE

$ 800,000 USD

VISA-FREE ACCESS TO

180+ countries

Overview of US EB5 Visa - Residence by investment

The US Golden Visa is a popular term used to refer to the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, which allows eligible investors and their families to obtain U.S. green cards by making qualifying investments in job-creating businesses in the United States. This program is part of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and provides a path to permanent residency for foreign investors.

US Golden Visa Investment Options

If you’re exploring residency through investment in the United States, there are currently two primary options to consider in the EB‑5 Immigrant Investor Visa Program, which is the official U.S. investor visa route, offering a direct path to permanent residency for you and your family. To qualify, you must:

  • Invest $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) project
  • Or invest $1,050,000 in a non‑TEA project

Your investment must create at least 10 full‑time jobs for U.S. workers.  After initial approval, you and your family will receive a conditional green card, which can later be converted into permanent residency.

Note: All EB-5 investment funds must be placed at risk, meaning the capital must be actively committed to a venture with the potential for both gain and loss, ensuring the process reflects a true investment, not just a payment for immigration benefits.

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Processing Time

12-18 months

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Real Estate From

$ 800,000 USD

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Visa-Free Access To

180+ countries

Why choose the US?

  • Economic Opportunities: The United States has one of the world’s largest and most diverse economies, offering a wide range of business opportunities across various industries.
  • Innovation and Technology: The U.S. is a global leader in innovation and technology, with Silicon Valley being a renowned tech hub. It attracts entrepreneurs, startups, and professionals in the tech sector.
  • Education and Research: The U.S. is home to many prestigious universities and research institutions, making it a top destination for international students and academics.
  • Cultural Diversity: The U.S. is known for its cultural diversity, welcoming people from all over the world. This diversity enriches society and offers unique cultural experiences.
  • Legal and Political Stability: The U.S. has a stable legal and political system, providing a secure environment for businesses and individuals.

Cost of living in the US

The cost of living in the United States can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the city or region, lifestyle choices, family size, and personal preferences. Here are some general insights into the cost of living in the U.S.:

Housing

Housing costs can be one of the most significant expenses. Rent or mortgage payments vary greatly from city to city. Major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles have higher housing costs compared to smaller cities and rural areas.

Utilities

Monthly utility bills, including electricity, gas, water, and internet, also vary by location. Generally, urban areas may have higher utility costs.

Transportation

The cost of owning a car, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance, can add up. Public transportation costs, such as subway or bus fares, also vary by city. Some cities have excellent public transit systems, reducing the need for a car.

Food

Grocery prices can differ based on location and dietary choices. Eating out at restaurants can range from affordable fast food to high-end dining experiences.

Healthcare

Healthcare costs can be a significant expense, especially if you don’t have health insurance. Employer-sponsored health plans often help cover medical expenses.

Education

If you have children, education costs can vary based on whether you choose public or private schools. College and university tuition can also be substantial, although financial aid options are available.

Taxes

Federal, state, and local taxes can vary widely. Some states have no income tax, while others have relatively high rates. Property taxes can also differ significantly.

 

US Residence by Investment Requirements

  • Make a qualifying investment of a minimum $800,000 in a (TEA) 
  • Or an investment of $1,050,000 in a standard U.S. business project
  • Create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. citizens through the investment.
  • Show proof of lawful funds
  • The investment must be subject to normal business risk.
  • Meet U.S. immigration standards, meaning clean criminal record, no previous deportations, or public health concerns.

After receiving a conditional green card, investors must maintain their investment and comply with EB‑5 regulations for two years before applying for permanent status.

Key Facts

Capital

Washington, D.C.

Languages

English 82.1% Spanish 10.7% – Other 7.5%

Currency

United States dollar ($) (USD)

Population

334,233,854 (2023)

Eligibility Criteria for the US EB5 Visa

  • Age 18 years old and above
  • No criminal record
  • Invest $800,000 (in a TEA) or $1,050,000 (standard investment)
  • Create or preserve 10 full-time U.S. jobs
  • Prove a legal source of investment funds
  • No deportations/visa refusal
  • Language requirement
  • Residency required

US EB-5 Visa Required Documents

  • Draft of application forms to be provided by Migrate World
  • A Police Certificate less than 6 months old is required for every country the applicant and each family member over the age of 14 years has lived in for over 365 days
  • 8 passport-size photos for all family members
  • A narrative document explaining the source of accumulated net worth (details to be communicated by Migrate World)
  • Supporting documentation on employment (details to be communicated by Migrate World)
  • Education Certificates (for applicant and spouse)
  • Affidavits of financial support
  • Power of attorney
  • The questionnaire provided by Migrate World
  • Signed client agreements

EB5 / US Golden Visa Cost

Applying for U.S. residency through the EB‑5 program involves a financial investment along with associated legal and administrative fees. While the process can seem complex, Migrate World is here to guide you every step of the way. From selecting the right investment project to handling documentation and liaising with legal experts, we make the journey toward U.S. residency smooth, transparent, and stress-free.

How Many Dependents Can Be Included in a Single Application?

The main applicant has the option to include their spouse and children under the age of 21.

US Golden visa application processing time

On average, the EB‑5 visa process takes 12-18 months from the date your application is filed with USCIS. However, this timeline can vary depending on your individual circumstances, including your country of origin, the type of investment, and current government processing times.

Starting investment for USA Residency is $ 800,000

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    Step by Step procedures and time frame for obtaining residency in the US

    1. Initial Consultation

    The first step is a complimentary consultation with us where we explain all the different options available.

    1. Security Check

    Migrate World performs a security check, before officially making any agreement as a guarantee that the applicant’s record is clean from any case in which the government might reject his/her application.

    1. Agreement & Fees

    Fees include legal, due diligence, government, and application processing fees. Fees are paid in stages, and the payment schedule is communicated directly to the client.

    1. Document Collection

    Applicants submit a completed/signed questionnaire and a signed pre-subscription agreement to Migrate World.

    1. File Submission & Investment Transfer

    Migrate World submits initial documents for preliminary review and approval. Upon preliminary approval, the applicant will then sign the subscription agreement and transfer the investment amount.

    1. I-526 Form Submission

    Migrate World will collect documents and submit the file, the lawyer will prepare Form I-526 (Petition for Immigrant Investor) and submit it to the US Citizenship and Immigration Service. The I-526 application is accompanied by information relating to the qualifications of the investor and the investment including source and path of funding.

    1. USCIS Decision

    The USCIS generally takes approximately 12-18 months to issue an approval or refusal. If the application is denied for a legitimate reason (not fraud or misrepresentation), all funds are returned to the applicant within 30 days.

    1. Approval Letter

    Upon approval,  the US government will issue an interview appointment letter.

    1. Consulate Interview & Visa Issuance

    At the conclusion of the interview, the consulate will either approve or deny the visa or request additional documents. If approved, applicants must enter the US within 6 months of the visa date.

    NOTE: Timeline is an estimate only, processing time depends on the complexity of each file.

    How do I avoid mistakes when applying for the USA EB5 Visa?

    When embarking on the journey to obtain US residency, entrusting your application to a reputable migration agency like Migrate World can be the strategic advantage you need. Our seasoned experts are well-versed in the intricate details of the application process, ensuring meticulous adherence to the country’s stringent requirements. With a track record of successful outcomes, Migrate World offers personalized assistance, saving you valuable time and minimizing the risk of errors that could delay or hinder your application. As your dedicated partner, we not only simplify the complexities but also provide you with up-to-date insights, empowering you to make informed decisions.

    Program Summary

    Learn more about the country and it's citizenship by investment.

      Similar Residence by Investment Programs

      US EB-5 Visa Benefits

      • No age, business experience, education, or language requirements
      • Processing time average is 12-18 months, and can be longer depending on the case
      • A limited number of documents to be submitted
      • Free choice of residence. You can live anywhere in the United States
      • Visa Free access to 180+ countries (UK; EU: Canada)

      US Golden Visa Renewal & Extension

      The EB‑5 visa, also known as the U.S. Golden Visa, initially grants a conditional green card valid for two years. Before it expires, they must file Form I-829 within 90 days of the expiration date to remove conditions and transition to permanent residency. If approved, they gain lawful permanent residence with a 10-year green card, which must be renewed every decade. Migrate World supports clients throughout this transition—ensuring timely filings, complete documentation, and full compliance with USCIS requirements.

      Comparing Residency by Investment Countries

      Similar Citizenship by Investment Programs

      Does the USA provide a Golden Visa?

      Yes, the USA provides a Golden Visa Program. The EB-5 visa grants permanent residency in the United States to individuals who invest in projects approved by the government throughout the country.

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      Frequently Asked Questions

      EB-5 visa processing time on average is 12-18 months from the date your application is filed, the processing time varies and can be longer depending on the complexity of each file.

      Yes, you have the freedom to choose your residence; you can live anywhere in the US.

      The U.S. EB-5 visa initiative, often referred to as the "Golden Visa," is gaining popularity among affluent individuals worldwide. This program provides a route to obtaining permanent residency in the United States for foreign investors who make substantial financial investments and generate a minimum of 10 permanent jobs within the country.

      USD 800,000 is the starting minimum investment for specific job fields.

      Sure, investors may be able to petition for US citizenship after five years of continuous residency.

      Although it does not grant citizenship, the EB-5 Visa provides permanent residency in the United States. However, subject to certain conditions, investors may apply for U.S. citizenship after holding a Green Card for five years.

      The EB-5 visa is granted based on investment and job creation, unlike other employment-based green cards (e.g., EB-1, EB-2), which require a job offer and labor certification.

      No, as the EB‑5 program requires a direct investment in a business or project that leads to job creation, not just property ownership.

      The EB‑5 visa is one of the most direct and independent routes to U.S. permanent residency.

      The process takes 12-18 months on average and can be longer depending on your circumstances, type of investment, and government processing times.

      An Investment of a minimum $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) project or $1,050,000 in a non‑TEA project, with conditions that the investment must create at least 10 full‑time jobs for U.S. workers, and be open to risk to reflect being a true investment.

      Benefits include U.S. green cards for you and your immediate family, freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in the U.S, and a path to U.S. citizenship after five years of permanent residency. Potential risks may include financial loss if the investment fails, delays due to visa backlogs or USCIS processing, and the risk of application denial if job creation or documentation requirements aren't fully met.

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