At Beyond Global Partners, we specialize in providing fully-fledged consultancy services for high-net-worth individuals and families looking to migrate to the USA through investment. Whether you’re considering the EB-3 or EB-5 visa, our expert team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a seamless and successful transition.
What is the EB-3 Visa?
The EB-3 Visa is an employment-based immigrant visa managed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It caters to three specific employment categories: skilled workers, professionals, and unskilled workers.
- Skilled Workers: Positions requiring at least two years of experience or training.
- Professional Workers: Roles requiring at least a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent foreign degree.
- Unskilled Workers: Jobs involving ‘unskilled labor’ that require less than two years of training or experience.
To qualify for an EB-3 Visa, applicants need a job offer from a U.S. employer who will act as their sponsor. A crucial aspect of the EB-3 application process is obtaining a ‘labor certification’ from the U.S. Department of Labor. This certification demonstrates that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position, ensuring that the job cannot be filled by a U.S. worker.
What is the EB-5 Visa?
In contrast, the EB-5 Visa is an investor visa designed to provide a pathway for foreign investors to gain resident status (Green Card) in the United States. The EB-5 program requires a significant capital investment that must lead to the creation of 10 permanent full-time jobs for American workers. There are two main investment options under the EB-5 program:
- Direct Investments: A minimum investment of $1,050,000 in a new commercial enterprise, or $800,000 if the project is in a targeted employment area (TEA).
- Regional Centers: These centers pool investment funds for large-scale projects, with the same minimum investment amounts as direct investments.
Unlike the EB-3 Visa, the EB-5 program does not require securing a job offer, as it is not an employment-based visa. Instead, the focus is on job creation through the applicant’s investment.
Key Differences Between the EB-3 and EB-5 Visas
Both the EB-3 and EB-5 visas can lead to permanent residence in the U.S., but they serve different purposes and have distinct requirements.
1. Purpose of the Visa
- EB-3: Employment-based, requiring a job offer from a U.S. employer.
- EB-5: Investment-based, centered around job creation through capital investment.
2. Investment Amount
- EB-3: Generally starts at $45,000, plus an additional $3,000 for each eligible family member.
- EB-5: Requires a minimum investment of $1,050,000, or $800,000 in a TEA.
3. Employment Criteria
- EB-3: Requires specific educational or professional qualifications.
- EB-5: No employment qualifications needed, as the focus is on investment and job creation.
4. Self-Sponsoring
- EB-3: Requires a job offer and employer sponsorship.
- EB-5: Allows for self-sponsoring, eliminating the need for an employer.
5. Application Processing Times
- EB-3: Typically takes around 20 months.
- EB-5: Often processed faster, usually between 12 and 20 months.
Why Beyond Global Partners?
At Beyond Global Partners, we pride ourselves on offering comprehensive consultancy services tailored to the unique needs of high-net-worth individuals and families. Our expertise covers all aspects of the migration process, from legal counseling to identifying suitable investment options, and everything in between.
With a dedicated team of professionals, we ensure that every client receives personalized guidance and support. Our goal is to make your journey to securing a second passport as smooth and efficient as possible.
Contact Us Today
Ready to explore your options for the EB-3 or EB-5 visa? Contact Beyond Global Partners today to start your journey toward U.S. residency and American citizenship. Let our experts navigate the complexities of the immigration process, ensuring a successful outcome for you and your family.