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The Immigrant Investor Program Office (IPO) is a division of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that oversees the administration of the EB-5 program. USCIS is a component of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and is responsible for administering immigration and naturalization laws in the United States. In line with its mission statement – “USCIS upholds America’s promise as a nation of welcome and possibility with fairness, integrity, and respect for all we serve” – this government agency strives to provide timely and accurate information to applicants, and to make fair and consistent decisions on immigration and citizenship benefits. USCIS is also responsible for processing applications for work permits, Green Cards, visas, and naturalization. USCIS conducts background checks on applicants, provides customer support services, and manages the immigration process from beginning to end. USCIS plays a critical role in shaping immigration policy and facilitating the integration of new immigrants into American society.

Located in Washington D.C., IPO is responsible for reviewing and processing applications submitted by foreign investors seeking to obtain permanent residency through the EB-5 program. The office also manages the EB-5 Regional Center Program, which allows investors to pool their funds into a regional center project that can create indirect jobs through economic activity. IPO plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity and success of the EB-5 program.

Under the EB-5 program, foreign investors can obtain U.S. Green Cards for themselves and their qualifying dependents (spouse and children under 21 years of age) by making a minimum investment of $800,000 in a government pre-approved real estate project in the United States. Successful applicants obtain U.S. Green Cards, which allows them to freely live, work, and travel in the United States. The EB-5 program provides a stable path to securing U.S. citizenship and passports. Investors are eligible to receive their capital contribution back after passage of a certain time period from the initial date of investment.

IPO regularly hosts the EB-5 National Stakeholder Engagement, which is a program designed to facilitate communication and information sharing between USCIS and stakeholders of the EB-5 program. The program aims to provide updates on policy changes, processing times, and other program-related issues to a broad range of stakeholders, including investors, regional centers, immigration attorneys, and other interested parties. The EB-5 National Stakeholder Engagement consists of teleconferences, webinars, and other outreach events where USCIS officials and subject matter experts provide presentations and answer questions from stakeholders. The program provides a platform for stakeholders to provide feedback, ask questions, and share their concerns with USCIS, and it helps to ensure the transparency and accountability of the EB-5 program.

If you are interested in finding out more about the EB-5 program and whether you and your family qualify, contact our team today for a free consultation.