The program allows foreign investors who “stimulate the U.S. economy through job creation and capital investment” to receive lawful permanent residency. The requirements to secure this visa are $1 million in investments for a standard project and $500,000 for one in a targeted employment area. After criticisms of fraud and loopholes, the program is getting reigned in. Starting in November the investment requirements will be raised to $1.8 million for a standard project and $900,000 for one in a targeted employment area. Industry leaders are concerned about the changes; between the current backlogs and the increased requirements, they fear that investment will continue to decrease. Other critics are happy with the changes, but hoped that the federal government would do more to decrease fraud and loopholes in the system. 

– Weekly Immigration Briefing By Olivia Hester, Immigration Law Analyst at Docketwise

Posted in: Immigration