Friday, July 1, 2011

EB5 Visas May Be Available Through Real Estate Investments In Florida

By Jonathan Westmoreland


The green card system is the process by which foreign nationals may become Lawful Permanent Residents of the US. Green card holders can live and work anywhere in the United States, and can apply for full citizenship after five years (less if married to a citizen, or coming to the US through an application for political asylum). There are several ways to get a green card, and those who can invest substantial funds ($500,000 or more) in the US, may find that the system for obtaining EB5 visas is the most appropriate.

EB5 visas are available for immigrant investors. Individuals must invest $1,000,000, but this reduces to $500,000 for investments in a qualified regional center (one with high unemployment levels). The investment must create at least 10 jobs.

The person applying for the visa is required to take an active role in managing the investment. This does not necessarily mean running the business as a full-time manager. In fact the regulations only require involvement in policy making, and participation with a properly structured limited liability corporation is deemed to meet the requirements of the visa program.

One can now find suitably structured investment opportunities in different parts of the US. Foreign investors in these opportunities can become eligible for a green card through the EB5 program, provided that they invest a sufficiently large sum.

No prior business experience is required, nor is any particular level of educational attainment. Applicants do not have to speak English, but they must be in good health.

The Hollywood Circle real estate project in South Florida's Broward County is one example of an immigration for investment program. This development includes around 400 residential units, plus a 100 room hotel. Potential investors can check their eligibility for an EB5 visa by visiting the Gold Coast Florida Regional Center website.




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