EB-5

EB-5 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does the EB-5 process take?

The entire EB-5 process usually takes 2 to 5 years, depending on the applicant’s country of origin, Form I-526/I-829 processing times, and whether concurrent filing is used.

Are RSR’s EB-5 projects safe?

RSR’s priority is to ensure the investor’s green card application and protect the investment principal. Unlike many regional centers that primarily focus on financing and have limited project control, RSR is part of the developer Switzenbaum & Associates. Its financing and development teams work seamlessly together, increasing project security and transparency—advantages single-purpose regional centers cannot match.
Switzenbaum & Associates is a developer with over 40 years of experience, specializing in multifamily development and management. Under the leadership of CEO Mr. Switzenbaum, the company has maintained a 100% completion rate and developed over 80 real estate projects. RSR’s projects are backed and reviewed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), making them among the safest EB-5 options available.

If my I-526 application is denied, can I get my $800,000 back?

The likelihood of denial is extremely low when working with RSR. However, in rare cases of I-526 denial, RSR will fully refund the $800,000 investment. The refund process is outlined in the offering documents.

If my I-829 is denied, can I still get my money back?

Denial is highly unlikely with RSR projects. However, in rare cases, if the I-829 is denied, RSR will fully refund the $800,000 investment. The refund process is detailed in the offering documents.

Must I live in the U.S. after obtaining a green card?

The likelihood of denial is extremely low when working with RSR. However, in rare cases of I-526 denial, RSR will fully refund the $800,000 investment. The refund process is outlined in the offering documents.

What documents do I need to invest in RSR’s projects?

USCIS requires proof of the lawful source of funds. Your immigration attorney will assist in preparing the required documents, and RSR will support you throughout the process.

How many EB-5 visas are available annually?

Each fiscal year (Oct 1–Sept 30), USCIS allocates 10,000 EB-5 visas. Demand has grown steadily since 2009. The EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act created new visa set-asides for specific investment areas:

Investment Area Annual EB-5 Visa Reserve
Rural Areas 20%
High-Unemployment Areas 10%
Infrastructure Projects 2%
Unused reserved visas are carried over within the same category for one fiscal year. After the second year, unused visas are released to the general pool.

What is a TEA?

A Targeted Employment Area (TEA) is either a rural area or an area with high unemployment. The minimum investment in a TEA is $800,000, compared to $1,050,000 in non-TEA areas.

How does RSR’s HUD 221 loan guarantee make its projects unique?

The HUD 221(d)(4) program offers long-term loan guarantees for multifamily housing. This enhances funding security and acts as a “bonus safeguard” for EB-5 projects, making investor funds safer.

What is job creation?

Each EB-5 investor must create at least 10 full-time U.S. jobs, either directly, indirectly, or induced. Regional center projects often calculate indirect and induced jobs using economic models.

What is the minimum investment amount?

  • TEA project: $800,000 USD
  • Non-TEA project: $1,050,000 USD
  • When can I get my investment back?

    Once USCIS issues a final decision, RSR will refund the $800,000 principal and interest. The refund process is detailed in the project offering documents.

    Can my spouse and children get green cards too?

    Yes. According to USCIS regulations, the spouse and unmarried children under 21 of the EB-5 investors are eligible for green cards.

    EB-5 Investment Requirements

    • EB-5 Investment Amount

    The investor is required to invest a minimum of $1 million; however, if the investment is located in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or qualified rural area, then the EB-5 applicant may invest a reduced amount of $500,000.

    • EB-5 Job Creation Requirements

    Each foreign national EB-5 Investor must create at least ten new full-time American jobs. The investor may utilize both direct and indirect job creation to fulfill the USCIS job creation requirement.

    • Source of EB-5 Investment Funds

    The immigrant investor’s funds for the EB-5 investment must be from a lawful source, and the investor must demonstrate that the capital is in fact from a legal source.

     

    For additional information regarding eligibility and the EB-5 program, visit http://uscis.gov/eb-5