US Citizenship by Investment – What You Need to Know

For many, achieving the American Dream involves becoming a U.S. citizen, and for those with the means, this dream can be pursued through investment.

While the U.S. doesn’t offer direct “Citizenship by Investment,” it does provide a route to permanent residency through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. This program allows foreign investors to obtain a Green Card, which can eventually lead to U.S. citizenship.

The EB-5 Visa program is specifically designed for high-net-worth individuals looking to invest in the U.S. economy, create jobs, and build a future in one of the most dynamic countries in the world.

If you’re considering this pathway, understanding the benefits, requirements, and application process is essential for a successful transition to life in the U.S.

Key Takeaways:

• The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a pathway to U.S. citizenship through investment.
• A minimum investment of $800,000 to $1.05 million is required, depending on the project and location.
• The process can take several years, from obtaining a Green Card to achieving citizenship.

What is US Citizenship by Investment?

US Citizenship by Investment refers to the process where foreign investors can obtain a U.S. Green Card by investing in the country’s economy, usually through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program.

While there is no direct citizenship by investment program, the EB-5 program allows investors to secure a Green Card by investing a substantial amount in a U.S. business, creating or preserving at least 10 full-time jobs for American workers.

After obtaining a Green Card, investors and their families (spouse and unmarried children under 21) can live, work, and study in the U.S. After maintaining permanent residency for five years, they may apply for U.S. citizenship, provided they meet certain residency and legal requirements.

Benefits of US Citizenship by Investment

• Pathway to U.S. Citizenship: The EB-5 program provides a clear pathway to U.S. citizenship after obtaining a Green Card and fulfilling the residency requirements.
• Permanent Residency for Family Members: Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can also receive Green Cards, allowing them to live, study, and work in the U.S.
• Freedom to Live and Work Anywhere in the U.S.: As a permanent resident, you have the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in the United States.
• Access to World-Class Education: Permanent residents enjoy access to the U.S. education system, including in-state tuition rates at public universities.
• Business Opportunities: The U.S. has one of the largest and most diverse markets in the world, offering numerous business opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.
• High Standard of Living: U.S. residents enjoy a high standard of living, access to advanced healthcare, and diverse cultural experiences.
• Global Mobility: A U.S. passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries, making international travel easier.

US Citizenship by Investment Requirements

To obtain U.S. citizenship through investment, applicants must first qualify for the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program.

The requirements for this program include:

• Minimum Investment Amount: Invest a minimum of $1.05 million in a new commercial enterprise in the U.S. Alternatively, invest $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), which is a rural area or an area with high unemployment.
• Job Creation: The investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers within two years of the investor’s admission to the U.S. as a Conditional Permanent Resident.
• Active Involvement: The investor must be actively involved in the management or policymaking of the enterprise. This means you can be involved directly in managing the day-to-day operations or hold a position on the board of directors.
• Legally Obtained Funds: The investment funds must be legally obtained. Investors must provide evidence that the funds used for the investment were obtained through lawful means, such as business profits, salaries, investments, or property sales.
• Conditional Residency: Upon approval of the EB-5 application, investors and their family members receive conditional permanent residency for two years. After this period, they must prove that the investment has met all requirements to have the conditions removed and obtain full permanent residency.

How Much Do I Need to Invest in the US for a Green Card?

To obtain a Green Card through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, you must make a minimum investment of:

• $1.05 million in a standard business in the U.S., or
• $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), which includes rural areas or regions with high unemployment rates.

The TEA designation is designed to direct investments into areas that need economic development the most, offering a reduced investment threshold as an incentive.

US Citizenship by Investment Processing Time

The processing time for obtaining U.S. citizenship by investment varies depending on several factors, including the applicant’s country of origin, the type of investment, and the demand for the EB-5 program at the time of application. Here is an overview of the typical processing times:

• EB-5 Petition (Form I-526): The initial application for the EB-5 Visa, known as Form I-526, can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months to be processed, depending on the USCIS workload and the applicant’s country of origin.
• Conditional Green Card: Once the I-526 is approved, the applicant and their family can apply for a conditional Green Card. This step can take an additional 6 to 12 months.
• Removal of Conditions (Form I-829): After two years, investors must file Form I-829 to remove the conditions on their residency. This process can take another 18 to 24 months.
• U.S. Citizenship: After holding a Green Card for five years, the investor and their family can apply for U.S. citizenship. The citizenship application process itself typically takes 8 to 12 months.

Overall, the total time to obtain U.S. citizenship through investment can range from 6 to 10 years or longer, depending on individual circumstances and processing times.

US Citizenship by Investment Application Process

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for U.S. citizenship through investment:

• Select an Investment Opportunity: Choose a qualifying investment, such as a new commercial enterprise or a project in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA). Consider consulting with an immigration attorney and financial advisor to select the best investment opportunity.
• Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including proof of funds, business plans, and personal identification. You must also demonstrate that your investment funds are obtained legally.
• File Form I-526 (Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor): Submit Form I-526 to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form includes details about the investor, the investment, and the job creation plan. A non-refundable filing fee is required.
• Obtain Conditional Green Card: If the I-526 petition is approved, apply for a conditional Green Card. You must file Form DS-260 (Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration) with the National Visa Center or apply for adjustment of status if you are already in the U.S.
• Fulfill Investment Requirements: Over the two-year conditional residency period, ensure that your investment meets all the requirements, including job creation and capital investment.
• Remove Conditions (Form I-829): Within 90 days before the two-year anniversary of receiving your conditional Green Card, file Form I-829 to remove the conditions. You must prove that the investment has been sustained and has met all program requirements.
• Apply for U.S. Citizenship: After holding a Green Card for at least five years and meeting all residency requirements, apply for U.S. citizenship by filing Form N-400. You must pass a citizenship test and interview to complete the process.

For more information, you can visit the official USCIS website.

FAQs About US Citizenship by Investment Program

Can I get U.S. citizenship directly through investment?

No, the U.S. does not offer direct citizenship by investment. Investors must first obtain a Green Card through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program and then apply for citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen through investment?

The entire process can take between 6 to 10 years or longer, from obtaining a conditional Green Card to becoming a U.S. citizen.

What happens if my investment fails?

If your investment fails to meet the job creation or capital requirements, your application for removing conditions on your Green Card may be denied, which could impact your residency status.

Do I need to live in the U.S. permanently after investing?

To apply for U.S. citizenship, you must reside in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the five years before applying. However, you are not required to live in the U.S. permanently immediately after obtaining your Green Card.

Can my family members also obtain Green Cards?

Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can also receive conditional Green Cards as dependents of the primary investor.

Conclusion

The path to U.S. citizenship by investment is an attractive option for those looking to live, work, and build a future in the United States. Although it requires a significant financial commitment and a multi-step process, the rewards of obtaining a Green Card and eventually U.S. citizenship are immense.

By understanding the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program and meeting all its requirements, you can start your journey toward becoming a U.S. citizen and enjoying all the benefits that come with it. Take the first step today, and pave your way to the American Dream!