Can I invest in technology startups?

Yes, it is possible to use the EB-5 program to invest in technology startups. The program does not restrict the business sector: what matters is that the venture qualifies as an at-risk capital investment and generates the qualified jobs required by the rules, directly or indirectly.

The most sensitive aspect of this type of investment tends to be proving job creation. Early-stage startups may have difficulty demonstrating, in a predictable way, that they will generate the required number of positions within the timeframe the program expects, which makes documentation and economic projections especially important.

For this reason, many investors choose to channel their investment through approved regional centers, which already have a recognized structure and accepted methodologies for counting indirect jobs. Investing directly in a startup is permitted, but it requires a more robust business plan to support eligibility.

Before deciding, conduct a thorough analysis of the project, be cautious of promises of guaranteed results, and confirm the current requirements with USCIS or a qualified professional.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.