I want to gain an understanding of the EB-5 investment program from an equity investors perspective. For example, in China, we are looking for equity investors to get a project started through a regional center. How can I find information such as: 1) How long does it take to acquire the funds for EB-5? 2) What proportion of a project makes up loan, equity and EB-5? I wish to make a return on investment rather than gain access to the United States.
The EB-5 visa program is designed to promote economic growth in the U.S. and grant legal immigrant status to foreign investors through their investment. The return on the EB-5 funds is historically low. If you are looking to for a return on investment rather than gain legal status, the EB-5 program may not be your best option. Please consult an experienced immigration attorney to advise you on immigration procedures.
The primary purpose of participating in the EB-5 program as a foreign investor is to obtain permanent residence. If you do not wish to obtain permanent residency for you or your family, then there are probably many other U.S. investment options you can consider. As an immigration attorney, I can assist you with the immigration applications and consequences of an investment, but analysis of the business viability is best left to another professional.
These are questions that should be directed to your attorney, such as Lincoln Stone or Martin Lawler. Make certain that you are working only with an attorney who actually works in this area of the law.
You should contact an experienced EB-5 immigration attorney directly to answer these questions. Each case is unique, so the time required to find investors varies, as does the proportion of EB-5 capital and non-EB-5 capital in a given project. These nuances are not governed by U.S. immigration laws or regulations, but rather are dictated by the EB-5 market and the types of EB-5 projects offered by regional centers and developers.
