The EB-5 visa is a United States visa created through the Immigration Act of 1990. This visa provides a method for foreign nationals who invest money in the U.S. to obtain a green card.
A majority of immigrant investors (90%) prefer to work through officially designated regional centers, such as American Life, Inc., to obtain a U.S. permanent green card because it presents a much simpler, less expensive and expedited process. The EB-5 visa program offers several advantages, including the following:
 
•    The freedom to live, work, and retire anywhere in the U.S., regardless of the location of your EB-5 investment.
•    The principal applicant, spouse, and any children under the age of 21 qualify under the same visa application.
•    There is no requirement to manage daily business operations and employees.
•    There are no travel restrictions in and out of your home country.
•    You have equal access to college education at the same cost as in-state residents.
•    Diversification of your investment portfolio in the U.S.
•    Currently, there are no visa quota backlogs.
•    No sponsor is required as in the case of most other employment- or family-based visa categories.
•    No claim for extraordinary ability or education.
•    You have the choice to become a U.S. citizen 5 years after you receive a conditional green card.

Once the investor’s EB-5 petition is approved, USCIS issues a “conditional green card.” What is a “conditional” green card?
A “conditional” green card is valid for two years. A conditional green card holder has the same rights and privileges as a permanent green card holder. Its holder should file a petition to remove conditions three month before the second anniversary of issuance. If the investor successfully removes conditions, a ten-year permanent green card will be issued.

What is the difference between “conditional” and permanent green cards?
An permanent green card is valid for ten years without conditions. Both cards offer the same rights and privileges.

If I was denied a US visa, can I still apply for EB-5?
Yes, an investor still can apply for an EB-5 immigrant visa, even if he or she has been denied a US visa in another category, unless the reasons for denial are related to immigration fraud or other major problems. It is most important that all criminal, medical and U.S. immigration history problems be disclosed to ACFI and legal counsel in advance of your petition.

Do I have to stay in the US once I receive my green card?
According to immigration regulations, the green card holder must create a residence in the US, and spend at least 6 months a year in the US in order to keep permanent resident status.
If family, employment, or business issues will not allow you to meet the residence requirement, you can apply for a re-entry permit. Re-entry permits are valid for two years and can be renewed after expiration.

Do I need to prove that I am in good health?
You will be required to have a physical examination by a certified physician.

Do I need to be fluent in English to apply?
No. You do not need to have any English ability.

Who will be included in the investor petition?
The petition includes the investor, the investor’s spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age.

If my I-526 petition is denied, will I receive all my investment funds back?
Yes. Your entire $500,000 (investment and fees) will be returned to you.

Should I consult my own financial advisor before investing?
Yes. ACFI urges prospective investors to please consult their own financial advisors for advice on investing through this program.

How many years is my permanent resident card valid after USCIS removes conditions?
Ten years.