2009 Statistics for EB-5 Investor Visas

Statistics show a surge in interest in the EB-5 investor visa program during 2009. Created as part of the Immigration Act of 1990, the EB-5 visa program grants lawful permanent residence to foreign nationals who invest $500,000 or $1 million in U.S. businesses and create or preserve at least 10 U.S. jobs.

Especially noteworthy is the increase in “regional centers.” These are private corporations or government agencies which can pool investor money to make large investments in specific geographic areas. The centers have used EB-5 investor capital in a wide variety of projects, including hotels, manufacturing enterprises, farms, restaurants, and technology companies.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services statistics for fiscal year 2009 (ending October 1, 2009):

* Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur:  1028 received, 966 approved, 163 denied.
* Form I-829, Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions: 437 received, 335 approved, 55 denied.

U.S. Department of State Statistics:

* FY 2009: 4,218 immigrant visas issued.
* FY 2008: 1,443 immigrant visas issued.

Regional Centers:

* FY 2009: 74
* FY 2008: 23

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