Can my EB-5 company have working capital from third parties?

The United States EB-5 visa program is known for encouraging investments that create jobs and boost economic development, requiring investors to put capital ‘at risk’ in an American enterprise. To clarify, this modality requires the investment to be made with your own funds and that the origin of these funds is lawfully proven.

Regarding the use of third-party capital for the company’s or project’s working capital, it’s important to understand that the minimum required amount for the EB-5 investment-whether in a new commercial enterprise or a regional center project-must come directly from the investor and be ‘at risk’. This means you cannot fulfill the investment requirement using only third-party resources, such as bank loans or capital contributions from others, unless these resources are part of your personal and proven injection into the business.

However, this does not prevent, once the initial requirement of own capital contribution is met, the company from supplementing its working capital with additional resources from third parties. This practice can be useful for the growth and sustainability of the enterprise, provided it remains clear that the minimum amount required to qualify for the visa comes exclusively from the investor’s personal funds.

In other words, while the EB-5 investment must be financed with your own capital, there is no prohibition on the company subsequently operating and expanding its activities with additional financial support from third parties. It is essential to follow United States immigration laws and maintain full transparency throughout the process. For this reason, it is highly recommended that any investment or capital structuring involving the EB-5 program be conducted with the consultancy of specialized professionals who can ensure compliance with legal requirements and avoid risks of fraud or scams.

This way, you preserve the integrity of your investment and strengthen your standing before immigration authorities.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.