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Resurgimiento del EB-5
Kyle Huffman • July 11, 2024
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El Programa de Visados EB-5 para Inversores Inmigrantes ha sido durante mucho tiempo una fuente de oportunidades para quienes desean establecerse en Estados Unidos. Sin embargo, en los últimos años, su atractivo ha disminuido debido a la preocupación por la integridad, el abuso del programa y la incertidumbre sobre su futuro. Sin embargo, con la aprobación de la Ley de Reforma e Integridad del EB-5 de 2022, el programa EB-5 se encuentra al borde de un renacimiento, captando de nuevo la atención de inversores de todo el mundo.
Para quienes no estén familiarizados, el programa EB-5 ofrece a los inversores extranjeros y a sus familias una vía hacia la residencia permanente en Estados Unidos invirtiendo una cantidad mínima en una empresa estadounidense que cumpla los requisitos. Esta inversión debe crear o conservar un determinado número de puestos de trabajo para trabajadores estadounidenses. Históricamente, el programa ha sido muy popular entre personas adineradas que buscan no sólo la residencia, sino también la oportunidad de contribuir a la economía estadounidense.
Sin embargo, en los últimos años, el programa ha sido objeto de críticas y escrutinio debido a acusaciones de fraude, abuso e ineficacia. Los inversores se volvieron recelosos y la popularidad del programa disminuyó. Los posibles solicitantes dudaban a la hora de comprometer fondos significativos en un programa plagado de incertidumbres y obstáculos burocráticos.
Llega la Ley de Reforma e Integridad del EB-5 de 2022. Esta legislación histórica aborda muchos de los problemas que han afectado al programa en los últimos años. Entre sus principales disposiciones se encuentran el aumento de los umbrales de inversión, medidas de supervisión más estrictas y reformas destinadas a promover la integridad y la transparencia dentro del programa.
Uno de los cambios más significativos introducidos por la ley de reforma consiste en facultar al Servicio de Ciudadanía e Inmigración de los Estados Unidos (USCIS) para supervisar e investigar más eficazmente los posibles casos de fraude o abuso. Además, la ley introduce medidas para agilizar el proceso de solicitud, reduciendo los trámites burocráticos y acelerando la adjudicación de las peticiones EB-5, lo que se traduce en una tramitación más rápida de las inversiones legítimas.
La aprobación de la Ley de Reforma e Integridad del EB-5 de 2022 ha inyectado nueva vida al programa EB-5, reavivando el interés tanto de los inversores como de las partes interesadas en la inmigración. Con sus medidas de integridad mejoradas y sus procesos agilizados, el programa vuelve a representar una oportunidad atractiva para quienes buscan alcanzar el sueño americano.
Ya estamos asistiendo a un resurgimiento del interés en el programa EB-5 por parte de inversores de todo el mundo. Los promotores y los centros regionales están aprovechando la oportunidad para sacar provecho del renovado entusiasmo, presentando una amplia gama de oportunidades de inversión en diversos sectores y regiones.
Además, la revitalización del programa EB-5 tiene importantes implicaciones para la economía estadounidense. Al atraer la inversión extranjera, el programa tiene el potencial de crear puestos de trabajo, estimular el crecimiento económico y facilitar el desarrollo de las comunidades necesitadas. Además, subraya el compromiso de Estados Unidos de acoger y aprovechar el talento y los recursos de los inversores inmigrantes.
La aprobación de la Ley de Reforma e Integridad del EB-5 de 2022 marca un momento crucial en la historia del programa EB-5. Al abordar preocupaciones de larga data e implementar reformas integrales, la ley ha restaurado la confianza en el programa y lo ha posicionado para un futuro próspero. A medida que los inversores y promotores aprovechan las oportunidades que ofrece el programa EB-5 revitalizado, prevemos un resurgimiento del interés y la actividad, reafirmando el estatus del programa como piedra angular de la política de inmigración y el desarrollo económico estadounidenses.
Animo a todos los posibles inversores a reunirse con uno de nuestros abogados expertos para discutir la posibilidad de asegurar la residencia permanente, y eventualmente la ciudadanía, a través de una inversión calificada bajo el Programa de Visa EB-5 para Inversionistas Inmigrantes. ¡Esperamos con interés trabajar con usted!
Este blog no pretende ser una asesoría legal y nada aquí debe interpretarse como el establecimiento de una relación abogado-cliente. Programe una consulta con un abogado de inmigración antes de actuar sobre cualquier información que aquí lea.
For international business owners and entrepreneurs engaged in cross-border trade with the United States , the opportunity to expand operations and establish a physical presence in the U.S. may be more accessible than expected. The E-1 Treaty Trader Visa is specifically designed to facilitate this type of business activity and offers a strategic pathway for qualifying individuals to live and work in the United States while managing or developing trade relationships. While 2025 has brought a trend of changes in immigration policy, the E-1 visa continues to stand out as a viable and welcoming option . Despite increased scrutiny across various immigration categories, this visa remains suitable for those involved in consistent, qualifying trade with the U.S. Its structure and purpose align well with current business realities, making it a stable choice even amid policy shifts. The E-1 visa is available to nationals of countries that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States . To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that they are engaged in substantial trade—defined as a continuous flow of sizable international transactions—primarily between their home country and the U.S. Unlike investment-based visas, the E-1 visa does not require a fixed monetary threshold. Instead, it emphasizes active commercial exchange, such as the regular transfer of goods, services, or technology. This visa is applicable across a wide range of industries , including but not limited to manufacturing, logistics, professional services, consulting, finance, tourism, and technology. If more than 50% of your international trade is with the United States, and the business activity is consistent and well-documented, the E-1 visa may be a strong fit for your current business model. In addition to its flexibility, the E-1 visa is renewable as long as the trade activity continues. It also extends benefits to eligible family members: spouses and unmarried children under 21 may accompany the principal visa holder, and spouses are eligible to apply for U.S. work authorization, offering added support and financial opportunity for the family. This visa category is particularly well-suited for business professionals who are already operating in international markets and looking to formalize or expand their presence in the U.S. It rewards active engagement, proven commercial performance, and long-term trade partnerships. If you are currently engaged in trade with the United States and are considering expanding your business operations, the E-1 Treaty Trader Visa may provide a clear and effective route forward. Our attorneys at Santos Lloyd Law Firm are here to help you assess your qualifications and guide you through each stage of the process with clarity, strategy, and confidence.
All people living in the United States, regardless of immigration status, have certain U.S. constitutional rights. If Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers come to your workplace, they must have either (1) a valid search warrant, or (2) consent from your employer to enter non-public areas. Non-public areas could include: staff break rooms, server rooms, mechanical rooms, HR department offices, private meeting rooms, etc. However, ICE can enter public areas of your workplace (lobby, reception area, parking lot etc.) without a warrant or consent from your employer. If you encounter ICE at your place of employment, it is important to stay calm . If an officer stops you, you may ask if you are free to leave. If they say yes, walk away calmly. If they say no, stay where you are and do not attempt to leave. You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to speak to ICE, answer any questions, or show any documents . If asked about your place of birth, how you entered the United States, or your immigration status, you may refuse to answer or remain silent. If you choose to remain silent, say it out loud: “I choose to remain silent.” If officers ask you to stand in a group based on your immigration status, you do not have to move. Be prepared to assert your rights by downloading, printing, and carrying a "red card" (available at https://www.ilrc.org/red-cards-tarjetas-rojas ) that states you do not wish to speak, answer questions, or sign documents. You are not required to show immigration documents . You may refuse to show identity documents that reveal your nationality or citizenship. However, never show false documents or provide false information. If you are detained or taken into custody, you have the right to contact a lawyer immediately . Even if you do not have a lawyer, you can tell immigration officers, “I want to speak to a lawyer.” If you have a lawyer, you have the right to speak to them and, if possible, provide proof of this relationship (such as a signed Form G-28) to an officer. If you do not have a lawyer, ask for a list of pro bono (free) or l ow bono (low-cost) lawyers. You do not have to sign anything without first speaking to a lawyer. If you choose to sign any documents, make sure you fully understand what they mean, as signing may waive your rights or lead to deportation. If you believe your rights have been violated , write down what happened. Be sure to include specific details such as names, badge numbers, and exactly what was said and done. Report the violation to a lawyer or an immigrant rights organization as soon as possible. If you or someone you know may be impacted by this executive order, staying informed and understanding your rights is crucial. At Santos Lloyd Law Firm, P.C., our trusted immigration attorneys are available to provide guidance and support during this uncertain time. Please contact us if you need assistance.
If you’ve recently received the exciting news that your O-1 visa has been approved, congratulations! The O-1 is a prestigious visa, granted only to individuals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in their field — whether it’s O-1A: individuals with an extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics, or O-1B: individuals with an extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry. Getting O-1 approval is no small feat, and it’s a true validation of your talent and hard work. But for many O-1 visa holders, that approval brings up the next big question — what’s the path to securing a green card? For those aiming to remain in the United States permanently, the EB-1A visa is often the natural next step. It’s also known as the green card for individuals of extraordinary ability, which makes it a close cousin to the O-1. Obtaining U.S. permanent residency through EB-1A involves two steps: 1) securing approval of the EB-1A immigration petition (Form 1-40) and 2) adjusting status to that of permanent resident or seeking consular processing. However, while these two categories share similarities, they are not identical. The EB-1A standard is significantly higher, and many O-1 holders underestimate just how much more evidence they need to present to qualify for permanent residency. The good news is, if you’re proactive and strategic about building your case, you can significantly improve your chances of success. Understanding the Difference Between O-1 and EB-1A Both the O-1 and EB-1A visas focus on individuals with extraordinary ability, but they serve different purposes. The O-1 is a temporary work visa that allows you to come to the U.S. to work on specific projects or for a particular employer. It requires a U.S. sponsor to file the petition on your behalf. The EB-1A, by contrast, is an immigrant visa — it is the first step toward obtaining permanent residency. Because the EB-1A leads to permanent residency, its eligibility standards are even higher. You must not only demonstrate extraordinary ability but also show that your recognition is sustained over time and that your work has had a lasting impact on your field. What Can You Reuse From Your O-1 Case? If you put together a strong O-1 petition, some of the evidence you submitted will still be valuable for EB-1A. This includes your awards, media coverage, expert letters, and proof of memberships in prestigious organizations. But the EB-1A demands more — you need to go beyond showing what you’ve accomplished and prove that your influence is ongoing, impactful, and recognized at a national or international level. How to Strengthen Your Case While on O-1 One of the smartest moves you can make is to use your time on the O-1 visa to actively strengthen your EB-1A profile. This means seeking out opportunities to get your work featured in top-tier media, publishing more original contributions, judging competitions, and taking leadership roles in your professional community. Every action you take to enhance your visibility and influence. Final Thoughts — The Path from O-1 to EB-1A is Achievable You may not be able to file your EB-1A today, but we can help you build your case step by step. Whether you need guidance on strengthening your profile, identifying the right evidence, or preparing a strategic filing plan, our team is here to support you. If you’re currently on an O-1 visa and you believe you may be eligible for an EB-1A visa in the future, we encourage you to contact our office. Our experienced attorneys have helped countless individuals successfully navigate this path, and we would be happy to review your case and create a personalized roadmap for your green card journey.
