The process of obtaining a green card is well-documented, and we aim to simplify it as much as possible below. The partners at HC2 Capital have been in this business since 2011, and through our experience, we’ve gathered key insights for those considering this life-changing investment.
First and foremost, trust in your attorney and regional center operator is essential – it’s much like a marriage. Your investment will be tied up for three to five years, so you need confidence that the guidance and information you receive are reliable and accurate and the team is stable. Just as in a marriage, once trust is broken, everything falls apart.
Next, take the time to thoroughly assess the quality of the investment. For most EB-5 investors, the goal is straightforward: securing a green card and the return of their capital. Ensure that the deal positions you to achieve both.
It’s also important to understand that USCIS processing can be unpredictable. Timelines fluctuate, policies shift mid-investment, and patience is required. Despite these challenges, the system works, as evidenced by the thousands of investors who have successfully navigated it.
Finally, know that the effort is worth it. In our experience, no investor has ever told us the journey wasn’t worth the outcome.
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a direct path to U.S. permanent residency (Green Card) for eligible investors and their families. By investing in job-creating projects in the United States, foreign nationals can secure lawful permanent residence and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship. Below is a step-by-step guide to navigating the EB-5 process:
Step 1: Prepare source of funds documents and select an EB-5 Investment project:
- Review and sign the offering documents
- Funding $800,000 (Targeted Employment Area) or $1,050,000 (non-TEA) investment capital and administrative fee.
Step 2: File Form I-526E with USCIS:
- If you are already in the US studying / working under a valid visa over 90 days, at the time of the Form I-526 E filing, you will be eligible for concurrent filing File Form I-485 and work and travel authorization, which allows you to remain in the U.S., and to work and travel in and out of the U.S. while your Form I-526E is pending.
Step 3: Receive Conditional Green Card
- Once the I-526E petition is approved:
- Inside the U.S.: adjust status to receive the Conditional Green Card.
- Outside the U.S.: Apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate through the National Visa Center. Attend an interview, and upon approval, enter the U.S. to receive the Conditional Green Card.
Step 4: Maintain Conditional Residency
- Conditional permanent residency is valid for two years.
- During this period:
- Fulfill the investment and job creation requirements.
- Ensure all legal obligations are met.
Step 5: File Form I-829 (Petition to Remove Conditions)
- Within the final 90 days of the two-year conditional period, file Form I-829. Submit evidence proving:
- The investment was sustained.
- The required jobs were created or will be created within a reasonable timeframe.
Step 6: Receive Permanent Green Card
- If Form I-829 is approved, USCIS grants you and your family permanent resident status.
- You can now live, work, and study anywhere in the U.S. without restrictions.
Step 7: Path to Citizenship (Optional)
- After five years of permanent residency, including the two years of conditional residency, you may apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization.
Why Choose HC2 Capital for Your EB-5 Investment?
At HC2 Capital, we provide carefully vetted EB-5 projects designed to maximize approval success and job creation. Our team ensures a seamless experience for investors and their families, offering full support throughout the process.
As one of the few SEC-registered Investment Advisor (RIA) offering EB5 investments, we adhere to strict regulations to ensure transparency and compliance, delivering high-quality investment opportunities.
As an independent investment manager, HC2 controls sourcing, underwriting, and monitoring, prioritizing investor interests while avoiding conflicts. Our success is directly tied to yours. We provide institutional-level service, including third-party appraisals, market studies, quarterly reports, and audited financials. Investors can also access real-time construction site progress.
We approach EB-5 investments with professionalism, valuing trust as the foundation of lasting relationships. We look forward to partnering with you on future real estate projects.
