The EB-5 program is a federally-authorized visa category created by Congress in 1990. The primary concept is to encourage foreign investment in job-creating U.S. economic development projects or companies in return for a U.S. green card. These projects or companies must create or retain 10 full-time jobs in the states, and a minimum investment of $1M is required. This investment can be reduced to $500K, if the investment is made in a high unemployment or rural area. Once the investment in a qualifying project or company has been made, the investor receives a conditional green card for two years. After two years, the investor must prove that their investment has been maintained, and that the 10 jobs continue to exist. At this point, the conditional status is removed.
EB-5 projects are typically financed through Regional Centers, which can accept the investment from the green card-seeking investor. The U.S. government sets aside 10K green cards each year for foreign investors participating through designated Regional Centers. The centers invest in projects that meet all of the program criteria. Using the EB-5 program is not simple, and there are significant investment and timing rules that must be followed. These rules can mean the difference between an investor receiving a green card or being deported. Consult and work only with reputable and qualified Regional Centers, immigration lawyers, and project finance experts. EB-5 financing is available in every state and city in the country.
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The EB-5 Visa program can be a useful tool for development finance professionals. This section contains resources on understanding the basics of EB-5.
How California is Making the Most of EB-5
In this CDFA webcast, our expert panelists including Peter Joseph of IIUSA, Mariza McKee with Kutak Rock, and Kraig Schwigen with CMB Regional Centers present on the impact being made by EB-5 in California, key rules and regulations, and considerations for incorporating EB-5 into potential projects.
CDFA-Stifel Nicolaus Innovative Deals Webcast Series: HotelsMembers only 
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The recent economic environment has made hotel development difficult. Now, many deals are being financed with creative uses of funds, including bonds, tax credits, and EB-5. This webcast, DJ Effler of Bellwether Enterprise, Laura Radcliff of Stifel Nicolaus, and Angel Brunner of EB5 Capital discussed the latest in hotel development, showcased recent ground-breaking deals, and evaluated how the financing was assembled.
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