Frequently asked questions
Questions about EB-5 Visa
Straight answers related to this visa.
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Does the Regional Center’s consultancy replace an immigration lawyer?
The Regional Center consultancy offers initial guidance but does not replace the immigration lawyer, whose expertise is essential for success in the EB-5 process.
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Does the spouse need to prove the origin of the funds if under a community property regime?
For the EB-5 visa, funds under a community property regime must have a proven and documented legal origin, ensuring transparency and compliance with USCIS requirements.
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Does the spouse receive the green card together or afterwards?
If the spouse is included in the EB-5 petition, they generally receive the conditional green card simultaneously with the principal investor, in a joint approval and adjustment of status process.
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Does the spouse’s nationality matter if it is different from mine?
The spouse's nationality does not prevent the EB-5 visa; the fundamental requirement is to prove the legitimate relationship and comply with U.S. legal requirements.
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Does the USCIS provide the detailed reason for the denial?
USCIS details the reasons for the EB-5 visa denial in the notice sent, allowing the applicant to understand failures and seek specialized guidance for the next steps.
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Does the USCIS require an “escrow holdback”?
The USCIS does not require an "escrow holdback" for EB-5, but projects may adopt it as a strategy for greater investor security.
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Does USCIS accept bank statements without the bank’s stamp?
USCIS may accept digital bank statements without a stamp as long as authenticity is proven, but may request additional documents in the EB-5 process.
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Does USCIS accept documents in Spanish, since it is similar to Portuguese?
USCIS requires documents in English or with certified translations, not accepting only documents in Spanish, even with similarities to Portuguese.
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Does USCIS accept letters from foreign accountants as proof of income?
A letter from a foreign accountant can be accepted in the EB-5 process, provided it is part of robust documentation proving the lawful source of funds and is accompanied by certified translations.
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Does USCIS accept online bank statements as proof?
USCIS prefers authenticated bank statements rather than just online versions, ensuring authenticity for the EB-5 process and minimizing risks of issues or fraud.
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Does USCIS accept proof of blood donation as a source of funds?
USCIS does not accept blood donation as proof of source of funds for the EB-5 visa, which requires robust and legally valid documentation.
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Does USCIS check if the company pays local taxes?
USCIS does not directly verify the payment of local taxes, but legal compliance, including tax obligations, is crucial for the success of EB-5 projects.
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Does USCIS check my previous immigration history?
USCIS thoroughly evaluates your immigration history to ensure eligibility and compliance with laws, making transparency and accurate information essential.
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Does USCIS check my social media?
USCIS checks public social media profiles to validate information in immigration processes, recommending transparency and care with privacy.
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Does USCIS check the EB-5 applicant’s social media?
USCIS may review publicly available social media information in the EB-5 process to ensure the truthfulness and credibility of the applicant and the investment.
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Does USCIS conduct background checks with Interpol?
USCIS conducts comprehensive background checks, prioritizing national sources and, if necessary, cooperating with international authorities, without directly relying on Interpol.
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Does USCIS conduct inspections at the investment site?
USCIS does not perform regular inspections at the investment site but may investigate it if there is suspicion, underscoring the importance of maintaining complete documentation and following the law.
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Does USCIS conduct periodic audits of Regional Centers?
USCIS conducts periodic audits of EB-5 Regional Centers to ensure compliance, prevent fraud, and guarantee real benefits to investors and the U.S. economy.
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Does USCIS consider inflation when counting jobs?
USCIS requires the creation of 10 jobs in the EB-5 without inflation adjustment, making it essential to follow official rules to avoid risks and ensure safety in the process.
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Does USCIS consider the stability of the Brazilian economy when analyzing EB-5?
USCIS evaluates the EB-5 visa considering the legality and origin of the funds, not Brazil's economic stability; each case is individually assessed with a focus on documentation.