According to a recent report in the Regional Center Business Journal, the success of the EB-5 Program has grown in leaps and bounds in the last year. Across the board, program statistics collected by government agencies show incredible profits and growth expected to continue into the future. In particular, the close examination of the following six data points clearly highlights the program’s continued growth patterns and success rates.
Investment Funds
Since 2008, foreign direct investment funds have grown more than 1,000% with 78% growth just in the last year. The program has generated about $13 billion in investments that would not have existed without its existence. With growth accelerating every year, investment generation is expected to continue at or beyond its current pace.
I-526 Progress
Each year, the I-526 receipts and completions continue to increase by more than 1,000% each. The investors have to demonstrate their participation in a profitable enterprise designed to create more jobs in the United States to qualify for I-526 approval. In 2015, there were over 14,000 receipts and nearly 10,000 completions for this sector.
I-829 Advancements
Within 90 days of receiving the I-526 approval, investors can apply for the removal of conditions with the I-829 form. The receipts and completions for I-829 have also steadily increased since 2008. The vast majority of investors applying for this designation receive an approval. In 2015, for example, 1,067 investors were approved, while only 11 were denied.
Petition Approvals
In years prior to 2000, investors were acquiring visas through Adjustment of Status, or AOS, rather than applying for the EB-5 Program. Since 2008, however, the majority of applicants utilize the EB-5 visa instead. In most years, less than 25% of investors choose AOS over EB-5.
Processing Times
Acceleration of processing times for I-526, I-829 and I-924 petitions have increased significantly in the past few years. By decreasing the wait, the program gave investors a jump on the competition, which often improves the company’s chance at success.
Regional Centers
The success of the EB-5 Program is demonstrated through the need for regional centers. Over the course of the 2014 to 2015 years, the number of regional centers increased and are at an all time high. Moving forward, USCIS will scrutinize regional centers to ensure they are actively promoting economic growth and weeding out the dormant regional centers.
For the best chance at participating in the EB-5 Program, it is important to fight petition denials with help from an immigration attorney. For legal representation for your immigration case, contact David Hirson & Partners, LLP at 1-.