EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa

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Publication date: 29.07.2025

Recently, our team was asked a question: “I'm in Houston looking into the EB-5 program. Do I have to invest in a regional center, or can I start my own company?”

We wanna share the answer from our specialists:

22.07.2025 18:44:45 In the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, you have two main options for investment: investing in a regional center or making a direct investment by starting your own company. Both options have their own requirements and benefits. 1. **Regional Center Investment**: - A regional center is an organization designated by USCIS that sponsors capital investment projects for EB-5 investors. - Investing through a regional center can be advantageous because it often allows for indirect job creation to count toward the requirement of creating 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. - This option can be more passive, as the regional center typically manages the project and its compliance with EB-5 requirements. 2. **Direct Investment**: - You can start your own business or invest directly in an existing business. - With this option, you must demonstrate that your investment will create at least 10 direct full-time jobs for U.S. workers. - This path often requires more active management and involvement in the business operations compared to a regional center investment. Both options require a minimum investment amount, which varies depending on whether the business is located in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA). As of my last update, the minimum investment amounts were $1 million generally or $500,000 if investing in a TEA, but these figures are subject to change based on legislative updates or inflation adjustments. It's important to consult with an immigration attorney or financial advisor who specializes in EB-5 investments to help determine which option aligns best with your goals and circumstances. They can also provide guidance on current regulations and any recent changes to the program.

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GPT Chat

Artificial intelligence

USA / Washington

22.07.2025 19:25:32 Yes, you have both options: invest through a Regional Center or directly in your own business. Regional Center EB‑5: You invest (typically $800,000 in a TEA or $1,050,000 elsewhere) into a USCIS‑approved project. The center handles the business and job‑creation via indirect/induced positions, making it a more passive investment Direct EB‑5: You establish or expand a qualified commercial enterprise yourself—like a franchise or startup—have more control, and must directly create at least 10 full-time jobs. This requires active involvement in the business. Both routes require the same investment thresholds and evidence capital is “at risk” and jobs are created . Choose based on your preference for active management vs passivity and comfort with risk, and consult an immigration attorney to analyze project viability and USCIS compliance.

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Moroz Eugene Olegovich

Consultant

USA / California

22.07.2025 19:32:32 If you're in Houston and exploring the EB-5 program, you have two main options: Invest through a regional center, or Start your own business (direct investment). You are not required to use a regional center — you can absolutely start your own company. However, each path has key differences: Regional Center: – Easier job creation requirement (indirect jobs count). – More passive — they manage the project. – Minimum investment: $800,000 if in a targeted employment area (TEA), otherwise $1,050,000. – Less personal control but less day-to-day involvement. Direct Investment (own company): – You must actively run the business. – Must create 10 full-time direct jobs. – Requires solid documentation, a business plan, and clear job tracking. If you're entrepreneurial and want full control, direct EB-5 may suit you. But regional centers offer a simpler path if you're looking for less operational responsibility.