US Immigration Welcomes Investors

The US Citizen and Immigration Service (USCIS) is taking steps to encourage foreign investment in the United States, by re-visiting its policies and procedures regarding the Employment Creation Program. Commonly known as the EB-5 Program, or million dollar investor visa, the program established in 1990, under legislation that envisioned lawful permanent resident status for immigrant investors who invested their capital in job-creating businesses.

In early November, USCIS Director Alejandro Mayorkas delivered a message outlining the reforms planned for the EB-5 Program and offered a proposed draft memorandum for public comment. The initiative to consolidate and accelerate the adjudication process is ambitious and also highlights the commitment by USCIS to promote the nation's interest in attracting foreign dollars.