Can international students on F-1 visa apply for EB-5?
Yes, international students on F-1 visas can apply for the EB-5 program. This can be an excellent pathway to transition from student status to permanent residency without going through the H-1B lottery. F-1 students can file their I-526E petition while maintaining their student status and can adjust status to conditional permanent resident once approved.
Related Questions
What is the EB-5 visa program?
The EB-5 visa program is a United States immigrant investor program that allows foreign nationals to obtain a green card by investing in a U.S. commercial enterprise that creates or preserves at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. Established in 1990, the EB-5 program provides a direct pathway to permanent residency for investors, their spouses, and unmarried children under 21.
How long does the EB-5 process take?
The typical EB-5 process can take 2-3 years from initial investment to receiving conditional permanent residence, followed by an additional 2 years before applying to remove conditions and obtain permanent residence. The timeline includes I-526E petition processing (12-24 months), consular processing or adjustment of status (6-12 months), and the conditional residence period (2 years).
Can family members be included in the EB-5 application?
Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age can be included as derivative beneficiaries in your EB-5 application and will also receive green cards. This is one of the major advantages of the EB-5 program - your entire immediate family can obtain permanent residency through a single investment. However, children who turn 21 before the application is approved may age out.
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