Is the location of the regional center relevant for the EB-5 visa program, and how can a California immigration attorney help?

 

A: There are almost 200 regional centers in the United States, and while an investor can live anywhere throughout the country, the location of the regional center should be taken into consideration for an EB-5 investment. For the following reasons, you should consult with a California immigration lawyer if you are trying to decide upon a regional center location:

• The amount of the qualifying investment depends on the location; the minimum investment of $500,000 applies to Targeted Employment Areas. Regional centers located in remote regions may be advantageous for Targeted Employment Areas, but the exit strategy and return of $500,000 capital (or investment at a profit) may be difficult after two years.
• It is important not to assume that just because a regional center is located in a specific area, the project will be in that same area.
• The location of the regional center, as well as the economic, demographic, and geographic characteristics can influence the success of a project.
• Even if a regional center is in a desirable location, regional centers differ tremendously in how they operate. It is important to look at the track record of the regional center, including experience and success in marketing, raising capital, and timelines.

These are important issues to discuss with an immigration lawyer in California; an experienced lawyer can explain the benefits and downfalls of a particular area and the specific regional centers.

For additional information, please read our free consumer guide, The Investor’s Path to a Green Card, available on our website.

It is impossible for a single individual to visit all of the potential regional centers to determine the pros and cons of each. Contact a knowledgeable immigration lawyer in the California area at the Law Offices of Vaughan de Kirby if you have questions about the EB-5 visa program and specific regional centers. Call the law offices at (415) 221-2345; you are investing a significant amount of money and we are here to help.