If you’re considering the EB-5 visa as your path to U.S. permanent residency, one of the first—and most important—decisions you’ll make is choosing between a direct investment and a regional center investment. Each option offers unique benefits and challenges, and the right choice depends on your goals, risk tolerance, and desired level of involvement in the business.
What Is Direct EB-5 Investment?
A direct EB-5 investment means you are investing in your own business or an enterprise where you play an active managerial role. This route is ideal for entrepreneurs and hands-on business owners, especially those who may already be in the U.S. under an E-2 visa and want to transition to permanent residency.
Key Features:
- You manage the business directly
- Higher control over operations, profits, and strategy
- Must create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers
- Greater responsibility and involvement required
Direct EB-5 is a great fit for individuals who want to grow and scale a business while maintaining control and oversight. It does, however, come with greater demands, from operational oversight to job creation and compliance.
What Is Regional Center EB-5 Investment?
A regional center EB-5 investment is a more passive option. Your investment is pooled with funds from other investors and managed by a designated USCIS-approved regional center. You are not required to manage the day-to-day operations of the business.
Key Features:
- Passive investment model
- Job creation is measured indirectly (economic models can be used)
- Minimal managerial involvement
- Typically lower returns on investment
Regional center projects are attractive to investors who prefer a low-involvement approach and are primarily focused on obtaining permanent residency rather than running a business. However, outcomes depend heavily on the regional center’s performance and project management.
Which Option Should You Choose?
The choice between direct and regional center investment depends on your personal and professional priorities.
Choose Direct EB-5 if you:
- Want control over your business
- Have entrepreneurial experience
- Prefer higher profit potential and ownership
- Are comfortable managing job creation directly
Choose Regional Center EB-5 if you:
- Want a more passive path to a green card
- Prefer not to manage business operations
- Are satisfied with limited financial returns
- Trust the management and project planning of the regional center
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right EB-5 investment path is a critical decision that affects not only your immigration outcome but your financial future. Our experienced immigration attorneys can guide you through the pros and cons of each option and help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals. Schedule a consultation with our EB-5 legal team today to start your journey with expert guidance every step of the way.
