El Programa de Inversionistas Inmigrantes EB-5, establecido en 1990, ha sufrido cambios significativos con la Ley de Reforma e Integridad EB-5 de 2022 (RIA). Comprender esta ley es crucial para los posibles inversores, ya que incluye información sobre cómo el gobierno de los Estados Unidos gestionará los aumentos en el monto mínimo de inversión para la EB5 en el futuro. Se espera que los aumentos entren en vigor en enero de 2027, dentro de menos de dos años y medio.
Históricamente, la inversión mínima requerida para EB5 era de 1 millón de dólares para áreas de empleo no específicas y de 500 000 dólares para proyectos en áreas de empleo específicas (TEA), regiones caracterizadas por un alto nivel de desempleo o situación rural. La Ley de Reforma e Integridad de 2022 elevó estos umbrales de manera significativa para reflejar los cambios económicos desde el inicio del programa. El nuevo requisito mínimo de inversión para la visa EB 5 es ahora de 1 050 000 dólares, reducido a 800 000 dólares para las TEAS] and projects of structure calificados.
Un requisito notable de la ley RIA exige ajustes automáticos de los umbrales de inversión cada cinco años, a partir del 1 de enero de 2027. Estos ajustes se basarán en el cambio porcentual anual acumulado en el índice de precios al consumidor para todos los consumidores urbanos (CPI-U) publicado por la Oficina de Estadísticas Laborales. Esto garantiza que los montos de la inversión se mantengan alineados con la inflación y las condiciones económicas, lo que evita otro período prolongado sin ajustes.
Utilizando los datos del IPC del 1 de enero de 2022 al 31 de julio de 2024, podemos entender el impacto de la inflación en los umbrales de inversión. Al 31 de julio de 2024, el índice IPI-U se situaba en 314.340, lo que refleja un cambio acumulado del 12,75% desde diciembre de 2021, cuando se situó en 278.802. Estos datos en tiempo real proporcionan información valiosa sobre cómo la inflación influye en los requisitos de inversión del EB-5.
El aumento de los umbrales y los ajustes automáticos reflejan las decisiones de política pública del Congreso para garantizar que el programa EB-5 siga siendo práctico y refleje las condiciones económicas actuales. Esto significa una inversión inicial más alta. Comprender el ajuste automático ayuda a los inversores a planificar mejor sus finanzas, sabiendo que los requisitos evolucionarán con la inflación.
Los cambios introducidos por la RIA marcan un cambio significativo en el panorama de inversión para los posibles inversores EB-5. El programa tiene como objetivo seguir siendo relevante y económicamente viable mediante la incorporación de ajustes automáticos basados en la inflación. Los inversores deben mantenerse informados sobre estos cambios y considerar los posibles aumentos futuros en su planificación.
Entonces, ¿cómo serán los aumentos? Según los cálculos conservadores del equipo EB-5 de Peachtree Group, en enero de 2027, esperamos que el umbral de inversión más bajo pase de 800 000$ a entre 900 000 y 975.000$. Así es como llegamos a esta conclusión.
Para establecer una base de referencia, el equipo de Peachtree Group revisó las cifras del índice del IPC relevantes del 21 de diciembre de 2021 al 14 de agosto de 2024, y proyectó los aumentos futuros del IPC basándose en la tasa de inflación objetivo de la Reserva Federal del 2% anual para demostrar la cifra proyectada del IPC (línea azul).
Con estos datos, el equipo creó líneas para el monto del proyecto del área de empleo objetivo y revisó tres escenarios:
Según la última tasa de inflación reportada para julio de 2024 (1,4% anual), el umbral de inversión a partir del 1 de enero de 2027 aumentaría a 900 000 dólares. (línea amarilla)
Si la inflación se estabiliza en el objetivo de la Reserva Federal del 2% anual a partir de hoy, el umbral de inversión sería de 900 000 dólares a partir del 1 de enero de 2027 (línea verde)
Si la inflación se mantiene en la tasa promedio acumulada desde la fecha de referencia del 1 de enero de 2022 (4,9% anual), el umbral de inversión a partir del 1 de enero de 2027 aumentaría a 975.000 dólares (línea roja)
Utilizando la ley y las estadísticas y extrapolando a 2027, llegamos a la conclusión de que esperamos que, a partir de enero de 2027, el umbral de inversión más bajo aumente hasta situarse entre 900 000 y 975000 dólares.
¿Qué puede hacer ahora?
Nadie puede estar seguro de lo que depara el futuro, incluso cuando se formulan hipótesis basadas en datos históricos. Sin embargo, lo que sí sabemos es que habrá ajustes automáticos en el importe mínimo de inversión para el EB5 según la RIA y se espera que esos ajustes entren en vigor en enero de 2027, dentro de menos de 2,5 años.
Para asegurar el monto de inversión EB5 más bajo, es importante iniciar el proceso. Grupo Peachtree es una firma de gestión de inversiones integrada que se especializa en identificar y capitalizar oportunidades en mercados dislocados, respaldados por bienes raíces comerciales. En la actualidad, gestionamos miles de millones de dólares en forma de adquisiciones, promociones y préstamos, además de servicios diseñados para proteger, respaldar y hacer crecer nuestras inversiones.
Our EB-5 team tiene más de 30 años de experiencia combinada en inversiones EB-5 administrando más de $2 mil millones en transacciones EB-5. Obtenga más información sobre el Peachtree Ventaja y permítanos ayudarlo a navegar por lo difícil Proceso EB-5 antes de que aumenten los montos de inversión.
Así es como puede comenzar su viaje hacia la residencia en los EE. EE. UU. con una inversión EB-5.
Empezar por visitando nuestro sitio web donde puede obtener más información sobre nuestras oportunidades de inversión específicas para EB-5.
Diseñamos nuestro sitio para que sea fácil de usar y sencillo.
Tómate un momento para rellena el formulario de contacto in our web site.
Cuando tengamos su información, uno de nuestros gerentes de relaciones con los inversores se pondrá en contacto con usted.
If you're an international student studying in the United States on a F-1 visa, you might be wondering about your options for staying in the country long-term. While the path to permanent residency might seem complex, the EB-5 immigrant investor program offers an interesting alternative that many students don’t know about. Let's explore how these visa categories differ and what you need to know about making the transition.
The answer is Yes - and you have more flexibility than you might think. As a F-1 visa holder, you can apply for an EB-5 visa at any point during your stay in the United States. Whether you're just starting your first year of school, in the middle of your studies, or even during your Optional Practical Training (OPT) period, the option is available to you.
However, there are some important requirements to keep in mind. You'll need access to the minimum investment amount of $800,000, and if you're presently in the U.S., you must qualify as an accredited investor with at least $1 million in investable assets. Many students receive the funds for their investment through a gift or loans from family members, which is perfectly acceptable, as long as you can demonstrate that the money comes from legitimate sources.
When it comes to processing times, flexibility is key. The timeline for obtaining your EB-5 visa after applying from F-1 status can vary significantly, primarily depending on how quickly the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) processes applications. Currently, processing times typically range from 4 to 18 months. While there aren't set deadlines or guaranteed timeframes, there's good news - concurrent adjust filing options may be available, which can help streamline the process and provide you with work and travel authorization.
If you are considering this path, it's smart to apply early, ideally while concurrent filing is available for your country of origin. This gives you the best chance of completing the process before your F-1 visa or OPT expires.
One of the most attractive aspects of the EB-5 visa is the independence it offers. Unlike your F-1 visa, which ties you to a specific school and requires maintaining student status, or an H1-B visa that ties you to an employer, the EB-5 visa gives you complete freedom. You won't need an employer sponsor or school sponsorship, and there are no restrictions on where or how you work. Want to start your own business? You can do that. Interested in changing jobs or moving to a different state? That's completely fine too. You can also apply to internships during the school year and participate in the recruitment process so that upon graduation you do not have the stress of the OPT process.
The advantages of choosing the EB-5 path go beyond just employment freedom. You're not dealing with any lottery systems or random selection processes like some other visa categories. Instead, you're on a direct path to permanent residency without the hassle of ongoing renewals. If concurrent filing is available, you might even be able to file for adjustment of status while your EB-5 petition is processing.
For students pursuing higher education in the United States, the EB-5 visa can offer significant tuition advantages. As lawful permanent residents, EB-5 visa holders qualify for in-state tuition rates at public universities after establishing residency in their chosen state, typically after living there for12 months. This can result in substantial savings compared to the higher rates charged to international students or out-of-state residents.
In addition, EB-5 visa holders, as permanent residents, have significantly better access to financial aid opportunities compared to international students. They can apply for federal student loans through FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and qualify for government-backed education loans with more favorable interest rates and repayment terms than private international student loans. Additionally, permanent residents are eligible for many scholarships and grants that are restricted to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, opening a much broader range of funding opportunities that are unavailable to international students. This includes merit-based scholarships from universities, need-based institutional aid, and various state and federal grant programs.
Your family benefits too. With an EB-5 visa your spouse and unmarried children under 21 are eligible for green cards without any additional investment required. This means access to American educational opportunities and the ability for your spouse to work freely in the U.S.
It's also worth noting that the $800,000 requirement isn't just a fee, it's an investment that you may potentially recover after the minimum investment period. While you're working toward your green card, your investment is contributing to U.S. economic growth and job creation.
Timing is crucial when planning your transition. Keep an eye on concurrent filing availability for your country and plan around your F-1 visa and OPT expiration dates. You'll need to think about securing the minimum investment amount, meeting accredited investor requirements if applicable, and gathering all necessary documentation.
Speaking of documentation, you'll need to prepare quite a bit of paperwork. This includes proof of where your investment funds came from, investment documentation, verification of your current F-1 status, academic records, and financial statements. While it might seem overwhelming, proper organization and preparation can make the process much smoother. It is important to work with an experienced immigration attorney that has vast experience representing investors for the EB-5 Visa as this will ensure that your petition and documentation is in compliance with the program's requirements.
The EB-5 program offers a unique opportunity for F-1 students to secure permanent residency through investment. Yes, the initial financial requirement is substantial, but the benefits of permanent residency, career freedom, and family inclusion make it worth considering if you have the means to invest.
Success in this transition comes down to careful planning, thorough preparation, and timely application. Given the complexity of immigration law and investment requirements, it's wise to work with qualified immigration attorneys and investment advisors who can guide you through the process and ensure you meet all program requirements. They can help you understand the nuances of your specific situation and maximize your chances of a successful transition from student to permanent resident.
Peachtree Group has more than 40 years’ experience in EB-5 investing. Have questions about EB-5, visit our website or fill out our contact form.
If you're working in the United States on an H-1B visa and seeking permanent residency, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a promising path forward. This comprehensive guide walks you through the process of transitioning from an H-1B to an EB-5 visa, helping you understand your options to make an informed decision about your immigration journey.
The H-1B visa is a temporary, employer-sponsored visa that ties you to a specific company. You need to win a lottery to get one, and you'll face regular renewal requirements. Plus, your stay in the U.S. is always dependent on your employment status.
The EB-5 visa, on the other hand, offers a direct path to permanent residency. No employer sponsorship needed! With an EB-5 visa, you can:
Yes, while it's not exactly a "conversion," you can apply for an EB-5 visa while maintaining your H-1B status. Here are the key requirements for an EB-5 visa:
Acceptable funding sources for H-1B holders include:
The transition from H-1B to EB-5 status typically requires between 4 to 18 months, depending on USCIS processing times. Your immigration journey begins with selecting and investing in a qualified EB-5 project. Once you've made your investment, you'll submit your petition to USCIS. During this waiting period, maintaining your current H-1B status provides important immigration security.
The concurrent filing option presents an interesting opportunity for H-1B holders pursuing EB-5 visas. This process allows you to receive an Employment Authorization Document and advance parole privileges (travel authorization) immediately after filing your EB-5 petition. These benefits enable work authorization independent of your H-1B employer and facilitate international travel. However, immigration attorneys often advise maintainingH-1B status throughout the EB-5 process, as switching to concurrent filing status may prevent you from returning to H-1B status if needed.
The journey from H-1B to permanent residency through the EB-5 program represents a significant opportunity for foreign workers in the United States. While the $800,000 investment requirement is substantial, the benefits of permanent residency and workplace freedom make it an attractive option form any H-1B professionals. Consulting with qualified immigration attorneys helps ensure you understand all aspects of the process and make the visa choice aligned with your long-term immigration goals.
Converting from an H-1B to an EB-5 visa offers a clear path to permanent residency in the United States. By understanding the requirements, timeline, and potential challenges, you can make informed decisions about your immigration future. Remember that professional legal guidance proves invaluable throughout this complex but rewarding process.
Peachtree Group has more than 40 years’ experience in EB-5 investing. Have questions about EB-5, visit our website or fill out our contact form.
For international investors dreaming of permanent U.S. residency, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a promising pathway—but navigating its complex landscape, which includes EB-5 visa annual limits, requires more than just capital.
Imagine investing substantial funds in a U.S. project, only to discover that your country's immigration quota could dramatically impact your timeline for obtaining a green card. Each year, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) implements intricate EB-5 annual limits and country-specific caps that can significantly affect your immigration journey.
These regulations aren't just bureaucratic footnotes; they're critical strategic considerations that can mean the difference between immediate progress and years of unexpected waiting. Read on to learn what you need to know about navigating these restrictions.
Conventional wisdom states that the EB5 visa country cap is calculated within each preference category, not across all preference categories.
Conventional EB-5 wisdom on country caps is wrong.
A US Federal Register announcement dated March 28, 2023, dramatically transformed how EB-5 visa annual limits are calculated. This update represents a significant change in understanding EB-5 country limits, offering new perspectives for investors navigating the complex immigration landscape.
Since April 2023, the latest news on EB-5 visa calculations reveals a comprehensive approach to annual limits:
This approach means immigrants from a particular country are not subject to EB-5 country limits until applications across ALL preference categories reach 7% of the total available visas.
The USCIS annual limits are governed by a nuanced 7% country cap mechanism designed to prevent any single country from dominating immigration allocations. Here are the three basic things you need to know to understand how the limits are governed:
Four countries have reached the critical 7% cap across family-based and employment-based visas, they are China, India, Mexico and the Philippines.
For China and India, this means significant waiting periods and strategic investment planning. Mexico and the Philippines experience minimal practical impact due to lower EB-5 application volumes.
Investors from countries outside of China and India enjoy significant advantages in navigating EB-5 annual limits. These investors face fewer restrictions, with greater flexibility in project selection and potentially faster processing times under current USCIS regulations.
Conversely, investors from China and India encounter more complex EB-5 country limits. These nations experience heightened scrutiny and longer waiting periods, requiring more sophisticated immigration and investment strategies to navigate the annual visa constraints.
Further, the EB-5 country limits are treated separately for the unreserved EB-5 category and each of the reserved categories (rural, high unemployment, and infrastructure). To understand current backlogs for the reserved categories, and any recent changes, pay close attention to the monthly visa bulletin put out by the Department of State.
Understanding the EB-5 annual limit is crucial for successful immigration planning. Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs, both rural and high unemployment areas) offer a strategic approach to managing visa allocations, providing:
Proactive planning becomes essential in managing USCIS annual limits. Investors should consult EB-5 immigration experts to help develop comprehensive long-term strategies and understand intricate priority date implications.
While USCIS annual limits and country caps are critical, they should not be the sole focus of your EB-5 investment strategy. Be sure to consider project quality, job creation potential, long-term investment objectives and your own personal and family immigration goals.
The EB-5 visa landscape continues to evolve, with recent USCIS updates providing new opportunities and challenges. By understanding the nuanced approach to annual limits and country caps, investors can make informed decisions that align with their immigration and investment aspirations.
Ready to navigate the complexities of EB-5 visa annual limits? Contact Peachtree Group today for a personalized consultation.
Peachtree Group is an investment firm driving growth with a diverse portfolio of commercial real estate assets and other ventures, with a specialty in hospitality. We’ve executed hundreds of investments since inception with a focus on real estate acquisition, development, and lending. Today, we manage billions in equity, augmented by services designed to protect, support, and grow your investment.
Peachtree Group has an EB-5 visa by investment program which allows foreign nationals the opportunity to attain permanent residency in the United States. The EB-5 visa program allows you to invest in job creating projects in the U.S. creating a path to a green card for you and your family. The minimum investment is $1,050,000. However, investment in Targeted Employment Areas reduces the minimum cost to $800,000. Learn more about the EB-5 visa by investment program.
