The L-1 visa and the EB-5 visa are two of the most popular immigration options for foreign nationals who want to live and work in the United States. However, there are some key differences between the two visas, and each one has its own advantages and disadvantages.
This blog article will discuss the top 10 reasons why you should consider an L-1 visa over an EB-5 visa.
- Lower investment requirement
The EB-5 visa requires a minimum investment of $1.8 million (or $900,000 in targeted employment areas). The L-1 visa, on the other hand, has no specified minimum investment requirement as such.
- Faster processing time
The EB-5 visa processing time can take several years. The L-1 visa processing time is much faster, typically taking just a few months, with an option for fast track processing also at an additional cost.
- No job offers required
The EB-5 visa requires you to provide jobs to US citizens. The L-1 visa does not require the same, as under L1 visa you are being transferred from your current employer to a US branch, parent, subsidiary, or affiliate company.
- Dual intent
The L-1 visa is a dual intent visa, which means that you can apply for a green card while you are still on an L-1 visa. The EB-5 visa is not a dual intent visa, so you must wait until you have received your green card to apply for citizenship.
- Spouses and children can work
Spouses of L-1 visa holders are eligible to apply for a work permit. Children of L-1 visa holders are eligible to attend US public schools. Spouses and children of EB-5 visa holders are not eligible for these benefits until they have received their green cards.
- Easier to extend
L-1 visas can be extended multiple times, up to a maximum of seven years.
- More flexible
L-1 visas can be used to transfer to different positions within the same company, or to transfer to a different company altogether. EB-5 visas are more restrictive, and can only be used to invest in a US business and create jobs.
- More options for green card sponsorship
L-1 visa holders are eligible to be sponsored for a green card by their employer, their spouse, or their child. EB-5 visa holders are only eligible to be sponsored for a green card by their spouse or their child.
- Less risk
The EB-5 visa is a risky investment, and there is no guarantee that you will receive your green card. The L-1 visa is a much less risky option, as you are being transferred to a US company with a proven track record.
- More opportunities
The L-1 visa gives you the opportunity to work for a US company in any industry, in any city or state. The EB-5 visa is more restrictive, and you are limited to investing in a US business in a targeted employment area.
Overall, the L-1 visa is a more flexible and less risky option than the EB-5 visa for foreign nationals who want to live and work in the United States. If you are eligible for an L-1 visa, it is definitely worth considering over the EB-5 visa.
Please note that this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal advice. If you have any questions about your eligibility for an L-1 visa, please contact us at Ever Aspire Consulting by visting our L1 visa page: https://everaspire.in/investor-visa-citizenship-by-investment/usa-l1-visa/.
https://everaspire.in/contact-us/
Ketan Trivedi
CEO
Ever Aspire Consulting
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