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Residence by investment, often referred to as “investor visa” or “immigrant investor program,” involves obtaining lawful permanent residency in the United States by making a qualifying investment in the country’s economy. In Ohio, as in every state, such pathways are regulated primarily at the federal level, most notably through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. This program allows foreign investors and their immediate family members to become eligible for a green card by investing in a new commercial enterprise and creating jobs. While the process is governed by federal law, Ohio offers unique opportunities and regional centers that may appeal to potential investors.
Ohio residents and prospective investors often require legal assistance for several reasons when pursuing residence by investment. The process can be complex, involving detailed applications, documentation, and strict compliance with both federal and local regulations. A lawyer can help in situations such as understanding eligibility requirements, ensuring that investments meet minimum thresholds, liaising with regional centers, navigating due diligence, and preparing thorough petitions for submission to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Additionally, a qualified attorney can help resolve issues if your application faces delays, requests for evidence, or denials, and advise on tax implications or the best structures for investment.
Although residence by investment is primarily regulated by federal law, several local Ohio statutes and regulations can be relevant. When investing in Ohio businesses, investors must comply with Ohio business registration requirements, employment laws, tax obligations, and any sector-specific regulations, especially if investing in industries like real estate or manufacturing. Ohio’s economic development programs and partnerships with designated EB-5 Regional Centers may also influence your investment decisions. Investors will need to understand local zoning laws, licensing requirements, and state-level incentives or programs that can maximize their investment’s impact and compliance.
The EB-5 Program is a federal investor immigration program which allows foreign nationals to obtain permanent residency by investing in a qualifying U.S. business and creating or preserving at least ten full-time jobs. This program is fully applicable in Ohio.
As of 2024, the general minimum investment is $1,050,000, or $800,000 if the investment is made in a Targeted Employment Area, which includes some regions within Ohio.
Ohio regional centers are entities authorized under the EB-5 program to sponsor investment projects. They pool capital from multiple investors and oversee investments that meet EB-5 requirements.
Qualifying businesses include new commercial enterprises, which can be either new ventures or expansions of existing ones. Ohio offers opportunities in fields like manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and real estate development.
Processing times can vary but often range from eighteen months to several years, depending on the complexity of the investment and USCIS workload.
Ohio does not have its own investor residency program; all process steps must comply with federal law. However, Ohio’s regional centers and some state programs can support and facilitate the federal EB-5 process.
Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can also apply for residency as your derivatives under the same EB-5 investment.
Yes, all investments carry risk. Legal counsel can help evaluate project legitimacy and ensure compliance to protect your investment and eligibility.
No, residency requirements pertain to the United States as a whole, but living in Ohio may offer advantages related to your investment or business interests.
A lawyer can help prepare your documentation, verify that all eligibility and investment requirements are met, and guide you through each stage of the petition process, reducing the risk of errors or delays.
For anyone seeking legal advice or more information about residence by investment in Ohio, these resources may be helpful:
If you are considering residence by investment in Ohio, the next steps are to conduct thorough research, identify potential investment opportunities, and consult an attorney who specializes in immigration and business law. A lawyer can help you evaluate whether you meet all qualifications, prepare your application, and ensure your investment complies with both federal and Ohio-specific requirements. Gathering all relevant documentation and seeking professional financial and legal advice early may streamline your path to residency. Consider reaching out to a qualified legal advisor to discuss your personal and business goals, assess the risks, and plan an effective legal strategy.
