We want to form a regional center ASAP in Puerto Rico and need help, especially with the application. Are there any different requirements for EB-5 regional centers formed in U.S. territories? What are the steps of the regional center formation process?
Answers
Ed Beshara
Find an EB-5 Visa Lawyer: Immigration AttorneyThe same EB-5 regulations and policies apply to regional center applications whether they are formed for geographical areas within the states or the territories. An experienced EB-5 immigration attorney will be able to advise you on the steps to prepare an EB-5 regional center application.
Julia Roussinova
Find an EB-5 Visa Lawyer: Immigration AttorneyRequirements are the same for the U.S. territories. You should consult an experienced EB-5 immigration attorney who would be able to advise you and coordinate work with other professionals, such as securities and corporate counsel, an economist, etc. Please note there is no expedited process for approval of a regional center by USCIS.
John J Downey
Find an EB-5 Visa Lawyer: Immigration AttorneyThere are no different qualifications for Puerto Rico. I was once asked to help form one in Guam. There are regional centers there with no different USCIS requirements.
Robert V Cornish Jr
Securities AttorneysThere are not special requirements as to regional centers in U.S. territories. Be aware, however, that recent credit issues in Puerto Rico will likely bring increased scrutiny by USCIS to any potential project there. Be sure your business plan and funding sources are ready for serious questions. And also, that you have legal counsel, auditors and economists ready to hire (meaning you have money to do all of this). And also be aware that it may take longer than one year to have USCIS approve your regional center application.
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