Frequently asked questions
Questions about EB-5 Visa
Straight answers related to this visa.
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Is there any way to verify if an EB-5 project is fraudulent?
Check EB-5 projects on official websites, analyze documents, and seek specialists to ensure security and avoid fraud.
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Is there government interest in increasing the EB-5 quota?
There is no definitive government decision to increase the EB-5 quota, but legislative proposals are under review; follow official sources to make safe decisions.
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Is there oversight after the approval of the conditional green card?
After the approval of the conditional green card through the EB-5 program, the USCIS monitors compliance with the investments and required job creation for two years.
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Is there periodic revalidation of Regional Centers?
There is no periodic revalidation of EB-5 Regional Centers, but USCIS may review their compliance to ensure the integrity of the program and protect investors.
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Is there preference for those who invest more than the minimum?
In the EB‑5 program, investing above the minimum does not generate preference; the focus is on meeting legal requirements and job creation to obtain the visa.
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Is there priority for those who invest in ’empowerment zones’?
The EB-5 does not grant automatic priority to 'empowerment zones'; benefits apply only if the area is also designated as a TEA, allowing for a reduced minimum investment.
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Is there priority for those who invest in innovation businesses?
The EB-5 program does not offer priority to investors in innovation businesses, evaluating applications only by formal criteria of investment and job creation.
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Is there processing priority if it is a rural TEA?
Investing in a rural TEA reduces the minimum required amount but does not guarantee processing priority for the EB-5 visa.
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Is there proof of insurance for the EB-5 company?
There is no federal insurance requirement for EB-5 projects; the existence of guarantees varies, requiring careful evaluation and professional guidance to protect the investment.
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Is there protection against bankruptcy of the Regional Center for the investor?
There is no automatic protection against Regional Center bankruptcy in the EB-5 program; therefore, it is essential to perform due diligence and seek specialized guidance.
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Is there specific consulting for TEA?
Specialized consultancies assist in the TEA analysis of the EB-5 investment, strictly following US laws, ensuring safety and transparency in the process.
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Is there state tax incentive for EB-5?
U.S. states generally do not offer specific tax incentives for EB-5 investors; benefits are mainly federal and related to residence and investment.
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Is there such a thing as ‘dual intent’ for the EB-5?
The EB-5 visa presumes immigrant intent from the outset, unlike visas such as the H-1B, and requires full legal compliance and attention to the program's rules.
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My company has been operating for 1 year, can I use the EB-5?
Operating companies can use the EB-5 visa as long as the investment generates jobs and meets legal requirements, with specialized professional support.
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My company in Brazil can open a branch in the USA for EB-5?
It is possible to open a branch in the USA for EB-5, but careful planning and specialized advice are essential to meet legal requirements and ensure the legitimacy of the investment.
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My conditional green card arrives by mail or at the consulate?
The conditional green card is sent by mail after a process in the US or pasted in the passport via consulate; always follow official channels and immigration laws.
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My husband is the EB-5 applicant, can I open another company?
It is possible to open another company even with the husband as an EB-5 investor, provided there is a clear separation between the businesses and all required regulations are followed.
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My son turns 21 one month before the green card. Does he lose eligibility?
In the EB-5 process, children who turn 21 before the green card may lose eligibility, except for CSPA protection that 'freezes' the age in specific cases.
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Should the business plan include a cash flow projection?
The cash flow projection is essential in the EB-5 visa business plan to prove financial viability and compliance with legal requirements.
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The amount of US$800 thousand is for each investor, not for the group, correct?
The US$800 thousand amount in the EB-5 program is required individually per investor, without the possibility of sharing among participants, according to strict immigration rules.