Visão Geral do Processo EB-5
Kyle Huffman • June 27, 2024
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Embarcar na jornada de imigração EB-5 é tanto um esforço pessoal profundo quanto uma decisão de investimento estratégico. Para indivíduos que buscam fazer dos Estados Unidos sua nova casa enquanto contribuem para seu cenário econômico, o Programa de Investidor Imigrante EB-5 oferece um caminho único. Este programa, estabelecido pelo governo dos EUA em 1990, oferece aos investidores estrangeiros a oportunidade de obter residência permanente nos Estados Unidos, investindo em empreendimentos que criam empregos. No entanto, navegar pelas complexidades do processo EB-5 requer uma compreensão completa de suas nuances, requisitos e possíveis armadilhas. Neste guia, fornecemos uma visão geral dos passos e documentos envolvidos no processo de imigração EB-5, elucidando seus componentes principais, critérios de elegibilidade, opções de investimento e etapas processuais, capacitando os investidores potenciais com o conhecimento necessário para embarcar nesta jornada transformadora com confiança.
Antes de selecionar um projeto e fazer o investimento, é importante que um investidor EB-5 se consulte com um advogado de imigração para planejar a aplicação. É necessário mostrar ao Serviço de Imigração que todos os fundos utilizados no investimento foram obtidos e mantidos legalmente, portanto, seu advogado desejará entender de onde vem o dinheiro para o investimento e onde ele foi mantido desde que foi ganho.
Uma vez satisfeito com a origem e o rastreamento dos fundos, o investidor pode selecionar um projeto para investir. Após a aprovação da Lei de Reforma e Integridade EB-5, certos projetos de investimento já foram pré-aprovados pelo USCIS ao preencher o formulário I-956 e receber a designação como Centro de Investimento Regional. O investimento mínimo exigido é de $1.050.000 por padrão; no entanto, esse valor é reduzido para $800.000 para centros de investimento em "Áreas de Emprego Alvo".
Após submeter o investimento ao centro regional, o investidor trabalhará com seu advogado para criar a petição I-526. Nesta fase do caso, é hora de mostrar ao USCIS a origem e o rastreamento de todos os fundos utilizados para o investimento. Os tipos de documentação necessários para mostrar a origem legal e o rastreamento dos fundos são extremamente amplos e altamente dependentes de onde o dinheiro vem em cada caso específico, mas os documentos mais comuns incluem formulários de imposto W-2 ou 1099, declarações de impostos federais e estaduais, extratos de conta bancária, contratos de compra e venda de imóveis, certificados de ações, contratos de empréstimo, documentos de herança e registros de transferência bancária, entre muitas outras possibilidades.
Os candidatos EB-5 podem processar seus green cards através do USCIS ao preencher um pedido de Ajuste de Status I-485, ou processar através do consulado em seu país de origem. Se já estiver nos Estados Unidos com outro status válido, o pedido de Ajuste de Status pode ser submetido juntamente com a petição I-526. Se processar através de um consulado no exterior, o investidor terá que esperar até que a I-526 seja aprovada antes de iniciar o processo consular. O requerente principal, juntamente com um cônjuge e quaisquer filhos solteiros menores de 21 anos, podem receber residência permanente através do processo EB-5.
Ao final de qualquer um dos processos, seja solicitando o Green Card dentro dos Estados Unidos ou buscando entrada através de um consulado, o USCIS emitirá green cards condicionais, com validade de dois anos. Nos últimos três meses antes de o green card condicional expirar, o investidor e a família precisarão preencher um pedido I-829
para remoção das condições do green card. Nesta fase, quase dois anos após o investimento ter sido feito, o Serviço de Imigração terá confirmado se o investimento permanece no projeto e se os 10 empregos necessários foram criados. Após a aprovação do I-829, o investidor e sua família receberão green cards permanentes, com validade de 10 anos.
O investidor e a família poderão solicitar a cidadania dos Estados Unidos cinco anos após a emissão do green card inicial.
O green card condicional conta para este propósito, assim a cidadania se tornará uma possibilidade aproximadamente três anos após a emissão dos green cards permanentes.
Em conclusão, o Programa de Investidor Imigrante EB-5 se destaca como uma oportunidade única para indivíduos ao redor do mundo realizarem suas aspirações de viver e prosperar nos Estados Unidos. Através de investimentos estratégicos e dedicação à criação de empregos, os participantes não só garantem residência permanente, mas também contribuem para o crescimento e a prosperidade econômica do país. No entanto, é crucial que os investidores em potencial abordem o processo EB-5 com planejamento meticuloso, pesquisa aprofundada e orientação especializada para navegar com sucesso em suas complexidades. Ao compreender os requisitos do programa, explorar opções de investimento e aderir às diretrizes processuais, os imigrantes aspirantes podem embarcar em sua jornada EB-5 com clareza e confiança. Em última análise, o programa EB-5 representa mais do que apenas um caminho para a residência – ele incorpora o espírito de empreendedorismo, inovação e oportunidade que define o sonho americano.
Se você acredita que pode se qualificar para o programa EB-5 ou se tiver alguma dúvida, por favor, agende uma consulta com um de nossos advogados experientes e teremos o maior prazer em ajudá-lo.
Este blog não se destina a fornecer aconselhamento jurídico e nada aqui deve ser interpretado como estabelecimento de um relacionamento advogado-cliente. Por favor, agende uma consulta com um advogado de imigração antes de agir com base em qualquer informação lida aqui.
Family-based immigration remains one of the most common paths to lawful permanent residency in the United States. It offers a lifeline to families hoping to reunite across borders, but the process is far from simple. The outcome of the applications can be delayed as a result of potential missteps while preparing the applications. Here are some of the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them: Incomplete or Inaccurate Forms One frequent mistake is submitting incomplete or inaccurate information on the forms like the I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and the I-485 (Adjustment of Status). Even minor errors such as misspelled names, missing signatures, or incorrect dates—can result in Requests for Evidence. To avoid this misstep, double-check all entries, cross-reference documents, and consult with an attorney before submission. Remember, immigration forms are legal documents so accuracy matters. Insufficient Supporting Evidence Proving a genuine familial relationship is the basis of family-based petitions. For spousal cases, USCIS looks closely at evidence of a bona fide marriage. Little or no supporting documents and evidence may lead to Requests for Evidence and even skepticism from USCIS. To establish a bona fide marriage, include documentation to show shared finances and liabilities. Filing Under the Wrong Category or Preference There are different immigration paths depending on whether the petitioner is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and whether the beneficiary is a spouse, child, sibling, or parent. Each category has different processing times and visa availability. It is critical that before applying, you understand which preference category applies to your case. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, parents, unmarried children under 21) generally receive faster processing and are not subject to annual visa caps. Not Disclosing Past Immigration or Criminal History Many applicants fail to account for past immigration violations such as visa overstays, unauthorized work, or prior removal orders. Similarly, if you fail to disclose past criminal history and these issues surface later in the process they can affect the outcome of the case. Disclose everything to your attorney, no matter how minor or old the issue seems. Prior violations don’t always mean denial but not disclosing them may lead to serious consequences. If you're considering filing a family-based petition, consult with an experienced immigration attorney at our office. Our office is committed to helping families navigate this complex process with clarity and confidence.
When applying for a green card or seeking admission into the United States, one of the legal hurdles many applicants may face is the public charge ground of inadmissibility. This test evaluates whether someone is likely to become primarily dependent on the government for support. But what exactly does that mean—and what types of public benefits can trigger this issue? In this article, we’ll break down what “public charge” really means, who is affected, what types of public benefits are considered, and what immigrants should be mindful of when making decisions about public programs like Medi-Cal and Medicaid. What Is the Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility? The public charge rule applies to individuals applying for a visa, green card (adjustment of status), or entry into the U.S., unless they fall into an exempt category. Under this rule, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) must determine whether the applicant is likely to become primarily dependent on the government for subsistence. This typically refers to receiving: Public cash assistance for income maintenance (such as SSI or TANF), or Long-term institutional care at government expense. This determination is based on the "totality of circumstances," including age, health, financial resources, education, skills, and whether a sponsor has submitted a valid Affidavit of Support. Who Is Exempt from the Public Charge Rule? Many categories of immigrants are exempt from the public charge ground of inadmissibility. These include: Asylees and refugees Special immigrant juveniles Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners T and U visa applicants Temporary Protected Status (TPS) applicants Importantly, even if someone later adjusts status through a different pathway that is subject to public charge, any benefits they received while in an exempt category will not be held against them. What Public Benefits Are Not Considered in the Public Charge Test? It is a common and harmful myth that using any public benefit will jeopardize your immigration status. In fact, most non-cash benefits do not count against you in a public charge determination. According to USCIS and DHS guidance, the following types of assistance (current as of July 1, 2025) are not considered: Health-Related Benefits Medi-Cal/Medicaid, except for long-term institutional care Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Health insurance through the ACA Marketplace, including subsidies COVID-19 testing, vaccines, and treatment Community health services, crisis counseling, and short-term shelters Food and Nutrition SNAP (Food Stamps) WIC School meal programs Food banks and emergency food assistance Housing and Energy Emergency shelter Rental assistance (e.g., McKinney-Vento programs) Energy assistance (e.g., LIHEAP) Education and Childcare Public schooling Head Start Childcare subsidies (e.g., CCDF) Educational grants and scholarships Federal Cash and Tax Benefits Earned income tax credit (EITC) Child Tax Credit (CTC) Stimulus checks Unemployment insurance Social Security and veteran’s benefits Disaster and pandemic-related cash aid In short, just because a benefit is public or government-funded doesn’t automatically make it count against you. A Word of Caution About Medi-Cal and Medicaid, in Particular As of today (07/01/2025), standard use of Medi-Cal (California’s version of Medicaid) or Medicaid for most health-related services is not considered in a public charge determination. This includes preventative care, emergency services, pregnancy-related services, and short-term care. However, if Medicaid is used for long-term institutionalization, such as in a nursing home or psychiatric facility, that does count under the public charge test. Despite current guidance, we are seeing political shifts and changes in tone from the current administration that suggest public charge policies may become more restrictive in the future. This includes renewed interest in expanding the types of public benefits that may be considered, particularly around medical assistance. For that reason, we generally recommend that individuals who are applying for adjustment of status, or who may be subject to the public charge ground in the future, avoid enrolling in Medi-Cal or Medicaid at this time, unless absolutely necessary. Final Thoughts Immigration law is complex, and the rules surrounding public charge can feel confusing or even frightening. But it’s important to understand that using most public benefits—especially for food, education, and healthcare—will not automatically jeopardize your green card or visa application. Still, because policy can change quickly, we urge individuals to consult with an immigration attorney before applying for any public assistance—especially healthcare programs like Medi-Cal or Medicaid. If you have questions or concerns about how public benefits might impact your immigration case, our office is here to help. We are committed to providing up-to-date, personalized guidance to keep your immigration journey on track. Disclaimer The information provided herein is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every immigration case is unique, and the application of the public charge rule may vary depending on your specific situation. If you believe this topic may apply to you or you need individualized legal guidance, we encourage you to contact one of our highly-qualified legal professionals for a consultation and assistance tailored to your circumstances. Resources: USCIS Public Charge Resources ILRC Medi-Cal and Public Charge Alert (2024) California Medi-Cal Immigrant Eligibility FAQ
As an immigration law firm, we regularly assist highly skilled professionals working in the U.S. on temporary work visas such as H-1B who are seeking a path to permanent residency. For many of these individuals, the EB-2 and EB-3 employment-based green card categories are the most pursued—and frequently misunderstood—routes . While both are viable pathways to permanent residency, they differ in meaningful ways that can significantly impact the timing, eligibility, and overall strategy of your case. The EB-2 category is intended for individuals who either hold an advanced degree or demonstrate exceptional ability in their field . Most applicants qualify by having a master’s degree (or higher), or a bachelor’s degree accompanied by at least five years of progressive experience in their profession. There is also a subcategory within EB-2 known as the National Interest Waiver (NIW), which allows qualified individuals to self-petition without employer sponsorship if their work substantially benefits the United States. This route is especially relevant for researchers, entrepreneurs, and professionals in high national interest or mission-critical fields. In contrast, the EB-3 category includes professionals with a bachelor’s degree as well as skilled workers with at least two years of training or experience . While the educational threshold for EB-3 may appear less rigorous, the process itself is equally structured. One key distinction between EB-2 and EB-3 lies in the requirements of the job being offered, not just the applicant’s own credentials. For example, if a position requires only a bachelor’s degree, even a highly qualified candidate with a master’s degree may still fall under EB-3. Regardless of which category applies, most employment-based green card cases begin with the PERM labor certification process . This is a formal procedure overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor, in which the employer must test the labor market and demonstrate that there are no able, willing, qualified, and available U.S. workers for the position. The employer must also agree to pay the prevailing wage as determined by the Department of Labor. This step is both mandatory and highly detail-sensitive; inaccuracies in the job description, recruitment steps, or wage determination can lead to significant delays or even denials. Once PERM certification is approved, the employer files Form I-140 , the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker. This petition confirms that the employee meets the requirements for the offered position under either EB-2 or EB-3, and that the employer is financially capable of providing the job as described. If the employee’s priority date—which is based on the date the PERM was filed—is current according to the Department of State’s Visa Bulletin, the individual may then file Form I-485 to adjust their status to lawful permanent resident. One of the more nuanced aspects of this process involves understanding how priority dates and visa backlogs affect the timeline. For applicants from countries with high demand, such as India or China, significant delays are common—particularly under EB-2. Paradoxically, there are times when the EB-3 category moves faster, prompting some applicants to file a second I-140 under EB-3 while retaining the original priority date. This strategy can be effective but requires careful legal planning to ensure it’s done correctly. Another strategic factor is portability. If your I-485 application has been pending for at least 180 days and your I-140 has been approved, you may be eligible to change employers under the AC21 portability provisions, so long as the new job is in the same or a similar occupational classification. This flexibility can be critical for employees who experience job changes or promotions during the often lengthy green card process. Ultimately, the choice between EB-2 and EB-3 isn’t about prestige —it’s about aligning your qualifications, the job requirements, and your immigration history with current legal standards and market conditions. The right strategy depends not only on your education and experience, but also on your long-term career goals and country of origin. At our firm, we work closely with both employers and employees to develop individualized immigration strategies that streamline the process and avoid unnecessary setbacks. Whether you're a corporate professional evaluating your green card options or an employer preparing to sponsor a key team member, we offer the insight and experience to move your case forward with confidence.
