The primary goal for investors in the EB-5 program is not high financial yields but rather the acquisition of a green card in the shortest possible time compared to other immigration routes. While EB-5 helps one to obtain permanent residency in the United States, one can also apply for U.S. citizenship if they choose.

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, a pathway to U.S. residency for foreign investors, has been an intriguing aspect of the American investment landscape for years. This program allows investors to gain a green card by investing in U.S. businesses, but a critical component of this investment is understanding the return on investment (ROI).

Traditionally, the Return on Investment in the EB-5 program has been modest, often hovering around 1%. However, this figure should not be viewed as an underperformance but as a reflection of the program’s strategic focus. The primary goal for investors in the EB-5 program is not high financial yields but rather the acquisition of a green card in the shortest possible time compared to other immigration routes. While EB-5 helps one to obtain permanent residency in the United States, one can also apply for U.S. citizenship if they choose.

High Returns and Associated Risks
EB-5 investments typically offer lower returns due to the program’s focus on immigration benefits rather than financial gain. High ROI projects in the EB-5 category, often presenting above-average returns, can carry increased risks. The structure of EB-5 investments, where regional centers loan investor funds to developers at interest rates between mezzanine financing and preferred equity, adds to the viability of EB-5 capital for developers. This setup, attractive to both developers and investors, underlines the program’s dual focus on immigration facilitation and economic growth in the US.

Indirect Return on Investment through Education Savings
For many investors, the true ROI in the EB-5 program is the ability to obtain a permanent green card. This benefit extends beyond the investor to include their immediate family, offering them a chance to live, work, and study in the U.S. The value of this return cannot be quantified in mere financial terms, as it encompasses opportunities for a better quality of life, education, and work prospects. Significant savings on U.S. education costs for children of EB-5 visa investors, especially for families, can be a considerable indirect return. For instance, families with three children could save upwards of $470,000 on education costs at institutions like UC Berkeley, the University of Texas, the University of Florida, and the University of Michigan, making the EB-5 visa a financially astute choice.

Beyond Financial: Earning Potential and Employability
Green card holders generally have greater employability and negotiating power in the U.S. job market compared to other visa holders. This stems from their ability to change jobs without employer sponsorship, unlike H-1B visa holders. While specific salary figures vary, green card holders usually have more job opportunities and can apply for positions without the restrictions that come with visa sponsorship. This increased flexibility can lead to better salary negotiation and potentially higher incomes.

Risk and Reward Balance
Investors in the EB-5 program must balance the lower financial ROI with the high immigration reward. The program’s stringent requirements, such as the job creation mandate and the need to invest in at-risk projects, are designed to ensure that the investment significantly benefits the U.S. economy. This balance is crucial for the program’s integrity and the achievement of its immigration-centric

Conclusion
For investors globally considering the EB-5 Visa program, it represents not just a financial investment but also a strategic path to long-term residency and lifestyle goals in the United States. With its blend of modest financial returns, strategic risk management, and significant indirect financial benefits, the EB-5 program continues to be the most credible and sought after path to obtain permanent residency in the US. The EB-5 program should be evaluated not just as an investment vehicle but as a unique pathway to U.S. residency, offering substantial non-financial returns to investors and their family’s goals.

The article was originally posted by The Economic Times – NRI

Authored by Nicholas Mastroianni III, President and Chief Marketing Officer, US Immigration Fund