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For those looking to immigrate to the US, choosing the right investment immigration program can be overwhelming. The United States offers multiple investment-based visa options, designed for investors, entrepreneurs, and business owners who wish to obtain US residency or citizenship through investment.
By investing in the US, you and your family can gain permanent residency through the EB-5 visa, enter the country early via the E-2 treaty investor visa, or expand your business with an L-1 intracompany transferee visa. This guide explains the key programs, eligibility requirements, and pathways to US residency and citizenship.
US Investment Visa Programs Overview
The US offers several investment immigration pathways:
Visa Program | Purpose | Residency Option | Investment Requirement |
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa | Permanent residency through investment | Green Card + Citizenship eligibility | $800,000–$1,050,000 USD |
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa | Early entry to operate a business | Non-immigrant (up to 5 years) | Varies by business & industry |
L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa | Transfer of executives or managers | Non-immigrant (up to 7 years) | Requires managerial role & established business abroad |
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa
The EB-5 visa program is the most popular US investment visa. It allows foreign investors to obtain US permanent residency (Green Card) and potentially citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
- Investment in a new commercial enterprise in the US.
- Creation of at least 10 full-time jobs for American workers.
- Investment is “at risk,” with potential for gain or loss.
EB-5 Visa Investment Options
1. EB-5 Regional Center Investment
- Invest through a USCIS-approved regional center.
- Often chosen by investors seeking passive investment.
- Eligible for $900,000 investment if located in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA).
- Funds must come from proven legal sources.
- Supports US residency through investment with less direct management responsibility.
2. EB-5 Direct Investment
- Investor manages their own business directly.
- Business must employ at least 10 people for two years.
- Eligible for reduced investment in certain USCIS-approved locations.
- Processing time: roughly two years.
- Offers more control over the business than the regional center option.
Tip: Compare EB-5 Regional vs. Direct Investments for best alignment with your goals.
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
The E-2 visa allows investors from treaty countries to enter the US quickly (≈6 months) to operate a business.
- Non-immigrant visa; does not lead directly to permanent residency.
- Granted for up to five years, with possible extensions.
- Investment requirements vary by business type and industry.
- Can be used as a bridge while waiting for EB-5 approval, allowing early entry and operational control.
L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa
The L-1 visa is ideal for companies wishing to transfer executives, managers, or specialized employees from a foreign office to the US.
- Valid for 3 years, extendable up to 7 years.
- Requires the applicant to have worked in a management or specialized role outside the US for the same company in the last 3 years.
- Can be a pathway to EB-1C visa, which leads to a US Green Card.
How to Get US Residency Through Investment
For investors seeking US permanent residency, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is the primary route:
- Investment: $800,000 in a qualified project (can be regional center or direct investment).
- Family Inclusion: Investor, spouse, and children under 21.
- Green Card: Issued after approval, leading to citizenship eligibility after maintaining residency for 5 years.
Other Notes:
- E-2 visas are faster but non-immigrant.
- L-1 visas allow work in the US while building a business structure.
Immigration Consultancy Support
Step Global, based in Dubai, provides expert guidance for investment immigration including:
- US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program
- E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
- L-1 Intracompany Transfers
- Portugal Golden Visa, Canada Start-Up Visa, Caribbean Citizenship Program, UAE Golden Visa
They assist with citizenship and residency by investment applications, helping investors navigate complex US immigration laws.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A visa that allows investors to obtain US residency or citizenship through financial investment.
A program offering Green Cards to investors who invest in US projects and create at least 10 jobs.
Yes, via the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa.
EB-5: typically 5 years; E-2: ≈6 months (non-immigrant).
Regional Center: passive investment, potentially lower risk.
Direct Investment: self-managed business, more control.
Yes, funds are “at risk” by design, to ensure genuine investment.
Yes, after maintaining a Green Card for 5 years and meeting residency requirements.
No, it is a non-immigrant visa but can serve as a bridge to EB-5.
Yes, including L-1 intracompany transfer and EB-1C options.
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