In a major shift in U.S. immigration policy, President-elect Donald Trump has proposed replacing the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program with a new “Gold Card” visa. This initiative would grant permanent residency and a pathway to citizenship for a $5 million investment, targeting ultra-wealthy individuals to boost the U.S. economy.
This means the EB-5 program, with its significantly lower investment threshold, is essentially on sale—but for how long?
The EB-5 Direct Investment Program
Since 1990, the EB-5 program has provided foreign investors with a pathway to U.S. residency. By investing $1.05 million—or $800,000 in targeted employment areas (TEAs) in a new commercial enterprise that creates or preserves at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers, investors and their families can obtain green cards.
With Trump suggesting a phase-out of EB-5 in favor of the $5M Gold Card, time may be running out for investors looking to take advantage of the more affordable existing option.
Why EB-5 Direct Investment Is a Great Deal
Lower Investment Threshold – Compared to the proposed $5 million Gold Card, the EB-5 program allows investors to obtain a green card at a fraction of the cost, making it far more accessible.
Direct Business Ownership – Unlike the regional center model, EB-5 direct investment allows investors to start or buy their own business, giving them complete control over their investment. Investors can choose an industry they are passionate about and actively manage the business.
Permanent Residency for Families – Successful EB-5 applicants receive conditional green cards, leading to permanent residency once job creation requirements are met. This provides security and long-term stability for investors and their families.
Geographic and Industry Flexibility – With direct investment, you can choose where and how you invest your money. Whether it’s a restaurant, manufacturing company, tech startup, or any other qualifying business, you have the freedom to decide.
Access to U.S. Education and Benefits – Green card holders enjoy in-state tuition benefits and access to top U.S. universities, significantly reducing education costs for their children.
Act Now—Before It’s Too Late
With the proposed $5M Gold Card visa on the horizon, the window for EB-5 may be closing. Investors looking to secure a U.S. green card at today’s lower investment threshold must act quickly before policy changes take effect.
A well-structured and credible business plan is not just a formality—it’s the foundation of a successful EB-5 petition. Immigration officers closely scrutinize business plans to ensure they demonstrate job creation, financial viability, and long-term sustainability. This is where we excel. Our business plans are not generic templates; they are meticulously crafted to align with both immigration requirements and sound business principles.
With our deep understanding of immigration law, market feasibility, and financial projections, we provide attorneys with the tools they need to secure approvals. We go beyond the basics, identifying potential risks that could jeopardize a visa and addressing them with clear, well-supported solutions. Our results-driven approach ensures every business plan is both realistic and defensible, setting our clients up for success.
The EB-5 program is at a crossroads. If you’re serious about securing a green card through investment, now is the time to act. Contact us today to ensure your petition is backed by a solid, credible, and compelling business plan that meets the highest standards of both business strategy and immigration law.
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The information provided in this blog is intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, it should not be considered legal advice. Immigration laws and regulations are subject to change, and individual circumstances can vary widely. For personalized guidance and legal advice regarding your specific immigration situation, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration attorney who can provide you with tailored assistance and ensure compliance with current laws and regulations.
Visa Business Plans is led by Marco Scanu, a certified coach from the University of Miami with a globally-based practice coaching Fortune 1000 company executives, entrepreneurs, as well as professionals in four different continents. Mr. Scanu advises clients on turnaround strategies and crisis management.
Mr. Scanu received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Cum Laude) from the University of Florida and an MBA in Management from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. Mr. Scanu was also a Visiting Scholar at Michigan State University under the prestigious H. Humphrey Fellowship (Fulbright program) with a focus on Entrepreneurship, Venture Capital, and high-growth enterprises.
At present, Mr. Scanu is the managing partner and CEO at Visa Business Plans, a Miami-based boutique consulting firm providing attorneys and investors with business planning services in the areas of U.S. and Canadian immigration, SBA loans, and others.
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