Over the past few years, the EB5 investor visa program has grown in popularity, with an increasing amount of aliens benefiting from it in order to gain a green card, and thus secure permanent residency in the United States. However, the immigrant investor program has sometimes been the source of some confusion among prospective immigrants to the United States. Some immigration "experts" have touted it as a "green card for cash" program, something that it is clearly not. If you are interested in making use of the EB5 green card program to immigrate to the US, it is important to clear up some common misconceptions about the whole deal in order to give you a better understanding of how the program works. Here are some of the common misunderstandings regarding the Immigrant Investor Visa:

You get a green card simply by paying a large amount.

Actually, the money will be used as an investment in order to create jobs in the United States and boost up the American economy, especially in regions that are underdeveloped or struggling economically. This is an investment that you are making, which can bring you profits. The program does not simply consist of making a "donation" to the American government and getting a green card in return.

Anyone can apply and be accepted, provided that they have the necessary funds ready.

While one of the main requirements is to have a sum ranging from $500 000 to $1 000 000 available to invest in the US economy, this is far from being the only condition you have to meet in order to get an Eb-5 Investor Visa. These days ,when the government is increasingly concerned about terrorism and money laundering activity, it is only natural that you will have to provide extensive proof concerning the source of the funds. It is the responsibility of the applicant to demonstrate that the funds to be invested do not come from illegitimate sources, such as drug trafficking, arms smuggling, organized crime, etc. Applicants must also undergo a n extensive background check to ensure that they are eligible to immigrate to America.

The visa will be processed right away, all you have to do is apply and then pack your bags!

Sorry, that's quite far from being the case in reality. While it is true that this program can allow someone to get to the US quite faster than other options for immigrants, it is not an "instant" way to acquire a green card. From the day that you initially submit your application, processing time usually takes just over a year for your application to be approved.

The immigrant needs to have certain specific skills to benefit from the Green Card Visa.

Other than being in good health, passing the required background and immigration security checks, and being able to invest the required amount, there are no additional requirements for the immigrant. You do not need to pass an English test or have a university degree to qualify.