The 1990 Immigration Act created EB5 visas, which are a way in which foreign nationals can invest in the United States, and as a result of their investment, become entitled to a green card (permanent resident card) for themselves and their family.
The investment required is currently 1,000,000 dollars, although it is reduced to 500,000 dollars if the investment is made in a qualified regional center with high unemployment rates. The Gold Coast Florida Regional Center offers EB5 visas in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties in Florida.
A green card is the informal name given to the United States Permanent Resident Card. This entitles the holder to permanently live and work in the US. Green card holders (or Lawful Permanent Residents) are able to apply for citizenship after 5 years.
While a person is a Lawful Permanent Resident they will already enjoy most of the full rights of a US citizen, including living and working anywhere in the country on a permanent basis. There are however some good reasons to become a full citizen, including the ability to possess and use a US passport, and therefore receive US government assistance and protection when traveling overseas.
US citizens can also get priority if they are petitioning to bring family members into the US, and their children (including those born abroad) can automatically become US citizens. Additional benefits can include lower fees at certain colleges (when compared to foreign students), and tax benefits due to homestead exemption laws. Also some jobs with government agencies, and most elected posts, are only available to full citizens.
Obtaining a green card by means of the EB5 visas program is dependent upon possession of the qualifying funds. Suitable investment opportunities for EB5 applicants are available in several areas of the United States. One example of an investment opportunity is the Hollywood Circle property development in South Florida.
Looking for additional info on EB5 Visas for South Florida real estate investors? Get the information now in the guide to all you need to know about conditional green card applications .