Immigration to the USA through Investment
Investment in the USA offers options like buying a business, opening a branch, purchasing real estate, bonds, or stocks. The EB-5 visa is a key investment visa granting permanent residency and a green card. Required investment is around $900,000 in low-density and $1.8 million in high-density areas.
Benefits include a green card for the investor and family (children under 21), no language or education requirements. For expert free consultation on USA investment and residency, contact Malekpour Institute.
Advantages of Investing in the USA
- Ability to bring family
- Earn investment profits in the US
- Benefit from a strong healthcare system
- Economic security
- Take advantage of entrepreneurial and business opportunities
- Possibility of obtaining permanent residency
Types of Investment Visas in the USA
| Visa Type | Description |
|---|---|
| E-2 Investor Visa | A non-immigrant visa allowing citizens of specific countries to invest and manage a business in the USA. Designed to facilitate foreign investment by enabling individuals to start and run businesses. Does not lead directly to permanent residency but can be a pathway to the EB-5 visa. |
| EB-5 Investor Visa | A major investment visa for permanent residency (green card) in the USA. Requires investment of either $900,000 in low-density areas or $1.8 million in high-density areas. The green card process typically takes 3 to 4 years. |
Conditions for Investment in the USA
For immigration to the USA through investment, you must meet a series of conditions. These conditions are as follows:
- Having financial means and capital that has been obtained legally.
- Obtaining investment approval from the US Immigration Service at the website address: https://www.uscis.gov/
- The profitability of the business idea or company in which you invest.
- Creating at least 10 jobs for 10 employees for two years.
- No criminal record
- Management history
E2 Investment Visa for the USA
Given that the E2 visa is one of the investment visas that can provide business opportunities and profits for the applicant, we will provide more details about this type of investment.
| Key Points for E-2 Investor Visa Residency | Details |
|---|---|
| Required Investment Amount | $50,000 to $200,000 |
| Investment Location | Chosen by the applicant |
| Job Creation Requirement | According to the business plan and feasibility study |
| Applicant’s Role and Responsibilities | Optional: Management and/or daily business operations |
| Specific Citizenship Requirement | Yes, applicant must be a citizen of a treaty country |
| Average Processing Time | Approximately 3 to 5 months |
| Initial Visa Validity | At least 1 year or longer |
| Maximum Residency Duration | As long as the business remains active |
| Dependents Allowed | Yes, spouse and unmarried dependent children under 21 |
| Work Authorization for Dependents | Yes |
| Education Authorization for Dependents | Yes |
| Work Authorization for Applicant | Yes, allowed to work immediately upon arrival in the USA |
The E-2 visa does not directly lead to a U.S. green card. However, investors who expand their business, create jobs, and prove economic contribution can apply for an EB-5 green card. To qualify, the investor must own at least 50% of the company. Ownership below 50% lacks sufficient control. The investment source must be legal under U.S. law, such as savings or inheritance.
| Minimum Investment for E2 Visa | E2 Visa Requirements |
|---|---|
| The U.S. E-2 visa does not set a fixed minimum investment amount. Instead, a “substantial” investment is required, which varies based on business type, industry standards, and overall scale. However, investing less than $100,000 is generally not recommended. | – Legal source of investment – Ownership of at least 50% of the company – Intention to live in the U.S. – Investment above $100,000 – Submission of a 5-year business plan |
Investment through the EB5 Visa in the USA
Investment in the USA occurs through various paths, and EB5 is one of the best options. In this section, we explain the EB5 visa for the USA. Generally, obtaining a green card in the USA through the EB5 visa, which is one of the methods of investment in the USA, takes approximately 3 to 4 years and can be implemented in two ways.
| Investment Amount | Conditions |
|---|---|
| $900,000 Investment | Invest $900,000 in designated high-risk or low-population areas (targeted employment areas) to create 10 full-time jobs for qualified employees and qualify for EB5 visa. |
| $1.8 Million Investment | Invest $1,800,000 in low-risk areas such as large cities with low unemployment to create 10 full-time jobs for qualified employees and qualify for EB5 visa. |
The creation of 10 full-time jobs does not require the investor in the regional center program to personally employ 10 employees; it is sufficient that 10 job opportunities are created indirectly through their investment.
The steps to apply for the US green card (permanent residency) through the EB5 investment visa involve first reviewing available projects for investment and selecting a lower-risk, financially worthwhile investment.
Then, it is necessary to invest $900,000 in the chosen project. In subsequent steps, forming an immigration file through EB5 investment, completing medical examinations, interviews, entering the USA, and obtaining the green card after 2 years can be mentioned. Thus, you can obtain a USgreen card through investment in the USA.
| EB-5 Investment Immigration Type | Description |
|---|---|
| C5 | Job creation outside targeted employment areas |
| T5 | Job creation within targeted employment areas |
| R5 | Investment outside targeted areas |
| I5 | Investment within targeted areas |
US Government Regulations for Obtaining an EB5 Investment Visa
- The applicant must invest in an active business, which is not a stock market investment or real estate purchase due to the safe margin of no activity.
- The amount invested must be provided by the applicant, but if this amount is a gift from the applicant’s partner or other individuals, it is taxable.
- In terms of time, the business in question must have been established after November 29, 1990, or the investment must be in a way that changes an old business.
- The capital amount can be $ 900,000 if the business is located in a deprived rural area with a high unemployment rate, and is also one of the areas accepted by the US Immigration Service.
Necessary Conditions for Obtaining the EB5 Visa
- $1.8 million in capital
- A commitment to invest $900,000 in a development or commercial project in a US city
- The capital must be legally obtained and verifiable.
Advantages of the Investment Method through the EB5 Investment Visa
- Return on Investment after 5 Years
- No Need for English Language Proficiency
- No Need for High Educational Qualifications
- No Requirement for Management Experience
Residency in the USA with Low Investment
Obtaining residency in the USA with low investment is also possible. If you apply through the E2 visa, you can invest with a lower amount in this country. Immigration through the E2 investment visa is the cheapest and easiest way to enter the USA.
In this method, by purchasing a successful business and providing a strong business plan, you can apply for immigration to the USA through the E2 visa. This visa is suitable for families who do not have enough capital to invest through the EB5 visa or prefer to enter the USA with a smaller investment first and then seek the EB5 investment after gaining more experience.
Minimum Investment Amount in the USA
Investment amounts in the USA vary based on the applicant’s goals. For profit, buying government bonds requires no minimum—investors can start with as little as $5 to $10. Mutual funds may require $500 to $5,000, while institutional and hedge funds often need $1 million or more. For residency, minimum investments depend on the business type: $100,000 for manufacturing or $200,000 for an E2 visa investment. Choose the right option based on your investment and immigration goals.
Methods of Investment in the USA
There are various investment methods in the USA, each offering different residence durations for investors and their families. Some investments lead to permanent residency, while others require alternative steps to obtain a green card. Investing in the USA is a top immigration route to secure permanent residency. Applicants can pursue different investment pathways—here, we explain the main methods of investing in the USA.
- Buying a Business in the USA
- Immigration with Less than $900,000
- Registering a Company Branch in the USA
- Buying Real Estate in the USA
- Government Bonds in the USA
Buying a Business in the USA
One way to immigrate to the USA without working or studying is by buying an existing business. Investors can purchase active businesses like hotels or restaurants after researching profitability, location (city centers often offer higher returns), and reviewing financial and tax documents—ideally with an immigration consultant’s help.
Buying an established business simplifies management and tax challenges since it’s already operational and compliant. This approach allows the investor to earn profits, invest in real estate, and gain residency for themselves and their family. Additionally, children can access free education up to age 18; after that, tuition fees apply.
Immigration to the USA with Less than $900,000
One way to obtain US residency through investment is with under $900,000, offering easier conditions than other methods. No formal investment is required—if you own a manufacturing business, you can qualify by showing $100,000 in trade with a US company or orders for 6 to 12 months.
This visa is renewable for up to 5 years as long as trading continues. Although converting this visa to a green card is challenging, starting a business in the US after arrival provides a smoother path to permanent residency.
| Important Points for $900,000 Investment Residency in the USA | Details |
|---|---|
| Required Investment Amount | No specific amount; business must have financial transactions over $100,000 with the USA |
| Visa Validity | 2 to 5 years |
| Visa Conversion Possibility | Yes (can convert to EB5 visa) |
| Dependent Visa | Spouse and children under 21 |
| Required Conditions | Conduct significant business with the USA |
| Citizenship Importance | Yes, applicant must hold citizenship of a country that has a trade or international agreement with the USA |
Residency in the USA by Registering a Company Branch
Company registration in the USA is one of the investment methods for applicants who have a business or wish to launch a new one. Applicants must have operated their business for at least one year. There’s no fixed minimum investment, but a reasonable amount depends on the business type. Hiring employees is required.
Visa processing takes 3–4 months, granting an initial 1-year residency. If the business meets US standards, a 3-year residency is issued, extendable up to 7 years. Afterward, applicants can pursue options like the EB1 visa to obtain a green card as a senior international manager.
| Condition | Details | Condition | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa Processing Time | 3 to 4 months | Visa Validity | 1 year (extendable to 7) |
| Average Company Registration Fee | $1,600 | Tax Amount | $800 |
| Dependent Visa | Spouse and children under 21 |
Investing in the USA through Buying Real Estate
Purchasing real estate could be one of the methods for investment in the USA; however, this method does not provide residency for individuals. One of the most critical conditions in this process is that individuals must first enter the country through a valid route, after which they may apply to buy property in different states and regions.
Applicants must have an initial residency to have the right to purchase property. It is worth mentioning that individuals who have entered the country with a tourist visa to the USA have the right to buy property in the USA.
Property Prices in Various Parts of the USA
| City | Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment | Rent for 3-Bedroom Apartment | Property Purchase Price (per sqm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas | $1,378 | $2,575 | $2,400 |
| Boston | $2,420 | $4,116 | $10,000 |
| Columbia | $783 | $1,400 | $1,371 |
| Hamilton | $815 | $1,675 | $1,400 |
| New York | $3,120 | $6,500 | $14,000 |
| Ontario | $1,300 | $2,650 | $3,800 |
| Paterson | $1,200 | $2,300 | $1,500 |
| Orlando | $1,279 | $2,050 | $2,500 |
Investment in the USA through Purchasing Government Bonds
Investing in the USA through purchasing government bonds is also possible. The stability of capital in government bond purchases is very high, and dealings with the government usually provide more transparency and comfort for investors. Government bonds have many advantages, the most notable of which include:
- Investing in a highly regulated government mechanism provides greater security, minimizes the risk of fraud, and is ultimately one of the safest places to keep your money.
- Liquidity of investments is an important factor when considering any investment. Government bonds can be liquidated directly without the hassle of finding a buyer or using a broker.
- Depending on the type of government bond, the country’s currency, and the country’s economic growth; government bonds may yield better financial results.
Given the above advantages and the stable economy of the USA, one can conclude that investing in the USA by purchasing government bonds is one of the least risky types of investment in this country. Foreign investors looking for US residency through purchasing US government bonds can achieve this by buying government bonds worth approximately $1 million.
Costs of the US Investment Visa
For immigration to the USA through investment and obtaining a visa for this country, besides the necessary investment costs, additional fees for obtaining the visa are also needed. Some of the most important costs for acquiring the US investment visa include:
| Expense Type | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Immigration Office Fee | $3,675 |
| Case Review Fee | $1,140 |
| Conditional 2-Year Permanent Residency Fee | $3,750 |
Obtaining Accompanying Visas through Investment in the USA
One of the most important issues to consider when immigrating to the USA through investment is the accompanying visa, as many applicants have families and wish their families to accompany them. The term ‘accompanying’ refers to the applicant’s spouse and children.
In most cases where the applicant obtains the US investment visa, they can apply for an accompanying visa for their spouse and children under 21 years old, allowing them to enter the USA along with the applicant. When the applicant seeks to immigrate through investment in the USA, their children accompanying them will be allowed to study, and the applicant’s spouse will be granted permission to work.
Obtaining Permanent Residency in the USA through Investment
There are various pathways for investment in the USA, and some of these paths, such as purchasing property, do not yield residency effects for the investor; however, many paths lead to obtaining residency in the USA.
Most US investment paths do not directly lead to permanent residency or a green card. However, investors and their families can obtain a green card and US citizenship through the EB5 visa program. With EB5, after maintaining investment conditions for 2 years, applicants can apply for a green card and later pursue citizenship.
The Best Investment in the USA
The best method of investment in the USA differs for each individual based on their goals and conditions. However, generally speaking, the pathway that offers reasonable profits and low risk can be deemed one of the best investment methods in the USA.
Investing in the USA through buying government bonds can be considered the best method of investment in the USA. Registering a company and entrepreneurship are also other pathways that can be regarded as some of the best investments in the USA.
Required Documents for Investment in the USA
The required documents for investment in the USA depend on the chosen method of investment pathway by the applicant. There are various paths for investment in the USA, and certainly, these diverse paths require different documents. Below are the essentials of the required documents for investment in the USA:
- Provide identification documents and a passport valid for at least six months
- Two 2×2 photographs
- Original civil documents (or certified copies) such as birth and marriage certificates, as well as legible photocopies of the original civil documents and any required translations
- Completed medical examination forms
- Certificates of financial support
- Provide a completed Form I-526
- Provide certificates of capital transfer
- Certificate of identification of the source of capital
Frequently Asked Questions about Investment in the USA
- What is the best way to invest in the USA?
One of the best investment methods in the USA is entrepreneurship and company registration.
- Can one obtain residency by buying property in the USA?
No, purchasing property in the USA does not lead to residency.
- Can one acquire US residency through investment in franchises?
No. To invest in franchises, one must first acquire US residency through other methods.
- Can one obtain a US passport through investment?
If the investment is successful, one can obtain US citizenship.
Conclusion:
We have thoroughly analyzed and evaluated investment in the USA and the best investments in this article, reviewing all its aspects. You can always contact the Malekpour Institute for any questions regarding investment in the USA, investment in Europe, investment in Canada, etc., and receive initial and highly specialized consultation from the experienced and reputable advisors of this institute regarding the pathways to immigrate to the USA, Canada, and European countries.
You can also pose your residency questions related to investment in the USA in the comments section of this article, and our expert consultants will respond to them.
