The Cost Of Securing U.S. Citizenship By Investment

Are you considering U.S. citizenship through investment? The process involves various financial commitments, from the initial investment to additional fees and expenses. It’s essential to be aware of all the costs involved before making a decision.

Find here key financial factors associated with obtaining USA citizenship by investment.

Initial investment amount:

The first and most significant cost is the amount you must invest in a U.S. business. The minimum necessary investment for the EB-5 program is $1 million or $500,000 if you invest in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), which is typically a rural or high-unemployment area. This is a substantial financial commitment and is the primary requirement for eligibility in the program.

Administrative and filing fees:

Along with the investment, applicants must pay various administrative fees. These fees are associated with the filing of petitions and other necessary paperwork mandatory by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The filing fee for the EB-5 petition (Form I-526) is approximately $3,675, and there are additional fees for the application to remove conditions (Form I-829) after two years, which costs around $3,750. These administrative costs can add up over time.

Regional center fees:

If you are investing through an EB-5 Regional Center, which is a common choice for many investors, there will be additional fees for participation in the center’s project. Regional centers often charge administrative fees for managing the investment and ensuring compliance with program rules. These fees typically range from $30,000 to $50,000, depending on the specific center and the nature of the investment.

Legal fees:

Working with an attorney is often necessary to ensure that all aspects of the EB-5 process are handled correctly. Legal fees for EB-5 applications can vary greatly, depending on the complexity of the case and the experience of the attorney. On average, these fees range from $15,000 to $25,000. It is recommended to choose an attorney with experience in EB-5 visa cases to avoid costly mistakes.

Due diligence and consulting fees:

Investors may also incur costs for due diligence services to ensure that the investment opportunity is legitimate and safe. Due diligence firms typically charge fees for evaluating the project’s financial health, legality, and track record. These fees can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the depth of the investigation.