The United States’ evolving trade policies could significantly impact Vietnam’s economy, particularly if the proposed 46% tariff on Vietnamese exports is implemented. With the U.S. currently accounting for approximately 37% of Vietnam’s total exports (VIR), this shift may bring financial uncertainty for businesses and investors alike. For Vietnamese investors considering the EB-5 visa program as a pathway to U.S. residency, these economic shifts highlight the urgency of acting now.
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Vietnam exported an estimated $149.6 billion worth of goods to the U.S. in 2024 (USTR). If tariffs of 46% are imposed, Vietnamese manufacturers and exporters will face declining demand and increased production costs, which could significantly slow economic growth. As a result, businesses dependent on exports may struggle, leading to job losses and reduced investment confidence.
A potential reduction in export earnings could place downward pressure on the Vietnamese đồng (VND), with some experts predicting a depreciation of 20-30% over time. This devaluation could make it more expensive for Vietnamese investors to meet the $800,000 EB-5 investment threshold, as more local currency would be required to cover the U.S. dollar amount.
Furthermore, inflation may rise due to increased import costs, eroding purchasing power and making financial planning more complex for high-net-worth individuals and families considering international investment opportunities.
As U.S. companies reevaluate supply chain strategies, some may shift manufacturing and investments to other countries with more favorable trade conditions. Reduced foreign capital inflows could lead to tighter economic policies in Vietnam, including stricter regulations on outbound capital movement. This could make it more difficult for Vietnamese investors to transfer funds internationally, complicating the process of funding an EB-5 investment.
Given these economic uncertainties, starting the EB-5 process now is a strategic decision for Vietnamese investors who seek stability and opportunity in the United States. Here’s why:
A weaker VND means higher costs for U.S.-denominated investments. By acting now, investors can secure their EB-5 investment at a more stable exchange rate before further depreciation erodes their purchasing power.
The EB-5 program has undergone multiple changes over the years, including the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, which set the minimum investment amount at $800,000 for Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs). Future adjustments could raise the minimum investment amount again. Applying now ensures that investors secure their place under the existing regulations.
The EB-5 visa offers a direct path to U.S. residency, providing Vietnamese families with access to a strong economy, world-class education, and high-quality healthcare. As economic uncertainty looms, the U.S. remains a safe haven for wealth preservation and future opportunities.
The EB-5 visa program has historically experienced wait times for certain countries with high demand. Vietnamese investors who begin the process now have a better chance of securing their place before potential backlogs grow due to increased interest in the program.
Nicholas Mastroianni III, President & Chief Marketing Officer of the U.S. Immigration Fund (USIF), emphasizes the importance of acting swiftly:
“With economic shifts on the horizon, Vietnamese investors should consider the EB-5 visa as a pathway to long-term stability. Securing U.S. residency now ensures access to a strong economy, top-tier education, and a reliable future before policy or market changes make it more challenging.”
The EB-5 program not only grants investors and their families Green Cards but also provides access to a stable financial environment, strong legal protections, and a promising future for future generations.
With economic challenges on the horizon, now is the time for Vietnamese investors to take decisive steps toward securing U.S. residency. By starting the EB-5 process today, you can:
Don’t wait for economic uncertainty to impact your ability to invest. Contact us today to begin your EB-5 journey.