paddymcl

My family and I want to move to the US within the next five years.

I'm heading out to scope places out in FL, GA, and SC later in the year. The family will join me on another trip next year to see what we think of it collectively.

The information on the .gov website is pretty good on this visa, but I'm having trouble finding information on/experiences of people who have already done this.

From what I can see, this is a long an convoluted way to get in (more paper work than other visas)... but it is also more direct. It means investing $500k to $1million.

Has anyone on here done or considered this? Also, I've read about companies who can set up the business and investment side of things for you. Are there any of these I should be wary of, or any that are recommended?

Thanks!
Paddy

civilservant

You might want to get a scoot on, if comprehensive immigration reform ever happens under Trump, EB5 will most likely be on the chopping block.

Twinkle0927

paddymcl

Funny you should mention that. Not five minutes after posting this, I found out about the proposed reforms for the E-5 program. It looks like I better start saving up. They're trying to double the minimum investment amounts. Trust it to happen when we finally decide to give it a go

I also didn't realise there was a huge backlog.

scrubbedexpat099

Not sure if the investment amount has ever been increased, certainly has been the current amount for a very long time so overdue for review.

Over the years a few have done this. I have seen a =t least one thread from somebody who went the cheap route AND got their money back.

cranston

I invested an EB5 Regional scheme in 2008 and I have spoken to other EB5 investors.

First off, you should be prepared to 'invest'/ lose $570k not $500K. Expect to pay $35-50k in fees to the EB5 promoters and $25-35k to your lawyer.

Many of the schemes are extremely risky and border on absurd. The risk to your money is very high. I am out of touch with specific details on schemes. But you need to do lots of research and think the investment through. Don't believe the glossy brochure.

I was 'lucky' and got my money and a small return back. However, my cash was tied up for 10 years and the return was less than inflation. A large part of that I attribute to bad timing and the Global Financial Crises of 2008-09.

paddymcl

I have a lawyer, but it's nice to hear from folks who've been through the mill.

Thanks for the info folks. I'm not banking on getting it back, and thanks for the heads up re factoring in the fees and lawyer bills. All very helpful! Hopefully, we can get the ball rolling before any adjustments come into effect. It doesn't seem to be a priority from the transcripts I've read on the senate... Sounds like they're focusing on other aspects of migration. Saying that, I'm not holding my breath. It could still go up next year if they get around to debating it sooner rather than later.

paddymcl

All incredibly helpful. Thank you!