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The term "Golden Visa" generally describes residency-by-investment programs allowing foreign nationals to obtain residence or even citizenship in a country by making a significant investment in its economy. In the context of the United States and specifically in San Mateo, California, the closest equivalent is the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. The EB-5 program allows individuals and their immediate families to obtain green cards (permanent residency) by investing in a U.S. business that creates jobs for American workers. San Mateo, with its thriving business community and proximity to Silicon Valley, is a popular destination for EB-5 investors seeking new opportunities and a pathway to living in the United States.
Pursuing a Golden Visa or EB-5 in San Mateo can be a complex process. Common situations where legal help is valuable include:
Given the legal, financial, and immigration consequences involved, working with a qualified lawyer helps reduce errors, prevents costly delays, and increases your chances of a successful outcome.
While federal law governs the EB-5 program, there are several local considerations relevant to applicants in San Mateo:
Understanding both the federal EB-5 requirements and local San Mateo implications is critical for a smooth application process and for ensuring your investment is secure and compliant.
In the U.S., the term "Golden Visa" most closely refers to the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, which provides a path to permanent residency for foreign investors.
Investors must contribute either $800,000 to a project in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or $1,050,000 to other qualifying businesses that create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
San Mateo is desirable due to its economic growth, proximity to Silicon Valley, and presence of reputable business ventures. However, investors should conduct due diligence to select solid opportunities.
Processing times vary. It often takes one to two years for initial approval, plus additional time for adjustment of status or consular processing, depending on your country of origin and application specifics.
Active day-to-day management is not required, but you must be involved in a policy-forming or managerial role, either directly or through a regional center project.
A regional center is an investment entity designated by USCIS to facilitate EB-5 investments. Many applicants use regional centers to streamline job creation requirements and reduce direct management duties.
If job creation or investment requirements are not met, your green card application may be denied. Legal counsel can help assess risk and guide investment choices.
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can be included on your application and obtain status as lawful permanent residents together with you.
As a U.S. resident, you will be subject to federal, state (California), and potentially local taxes. Proper planning with legal and tax professionals is important to ensure compliance.
Lawyers can guide you from start to finish, help select reliable investments, prepare and file applications, respond to government requests, and advise on compliance, tax, and residency matters.
If you need further guidance, consider contacting or exploring the following:
If you are considering pursuing a Golden Visa or EB-5 investment in San Mateo, here are recommended actions:
Seeking expert legal help will give you the best chance of a successful and compliant outcome in securing your Golden Visa in San Mateo.
