Pam Golding International has launched a US citizenship via EB-5 investment programme.<\/p>\n
The property group said that while European residency programmes remain very popular among South Africans wishing to obtain a Schengen Visa and European residency, many have expressed a preference for the US should they one day want to relocate overseas, setting up a new life and businesses for themselves and their children.<\/p>\n
“As a result of this demand, we now offer access to the USA Immigrant Investor EB-5 programme which provides the opportunity to acquire US citizenship via investment in a commercial property venture,” said Chris Immelman, head of Pam Golding International.<\/p>\n
Created by US Congress in 1990 to stimulate the US economy through job creation and capital investment by foreign investors, EB-5 is currently the fastest way to obtain a US Green Card for your immediate family, including children under the age of 21.<\/p>\n
Applicants need to invest $500,000 (R7 million) in an eligible business that will create 10 jobs, and the Green Card is valid for 10 years.<\/p>\n
Should your application for a Green Card be refused, your investment is returned to you immediately. It usually takes 18-24 months from the time of your investment to obtain your US Green Card.<\/p>\n
Those qualifying for a Green Card via the EB-5 programme have the right to live, work, study or build a business anywhere in the USA, with access to the finest educational institutions, medical facilities and social programmes at the same cost a US citizen would pay, Immelman said.<\/p>\n
\u201cHowever indications from the US government are that entry to this programme will increase to $1 million plus during 2019, so time is of the essence to take advantage of the more accessible window of opportunity via an investment of $500,000,” said Immelman.<\/p>\n
He said that this investment is kept in a secure US escrow account until your application is approved by the government, at which point it is transferred to the project.<\/p>\n
“Importantly, it also affords the opportunity to become a full US citizen after only five years of permanent residency. And, upon successful completion of the EB-5 project invested in, you receive the full return of the $500 000 invested.<\/p>\n
“All the above investment projects are overseen by a group of highly experienced professionals who take care of job creation and overall operation, so there is no need to actively participate in the management of the business.”<\/p>\n