EB-5 Visa vs. Other Investment Visas: What’s the Best Choice?

Introduction

For investors looking to secure residency in the U.S., the EB-5 visa stands out as a popular option. However, there are other investment-based visas, such as the E-2, L-1, and EB-1C, which may be more suitable depending on financial capability, business goals, and residency expectations.

This blog explores the EB-5 visa and compares it with other investment visas to help you make an informed decision. If you need expert guidance, consult Mensk Consultancy, a trusted advisor in immigration and business consultancy.

What is the EB-5 Visa?

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program provides a direct pathway to U.S. permanent residency (Green Card) for investors who meet specific investment and job creation criteria.

Key Requirements:

• Minimum investment of $800,000 (in Targeted Employment Areas) or $1,050,000 elsewhere.

• The investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time U.S. jobs.

• The investor and their family (spouse and children under 21) receive Green Cards.

• No requirement for day-to-day business involvement.

Pros of the EB-5 Visa:

✔ Direct Green Card path for investors and families.
✔ No work or employer sponsorship required.
✔ No strict business management requirement.
✔ Freedom to live anywhere in the U.S. after investment compliance.

Cons of the EB-5 Visa:

✖ High investment threshold.
✖ Long processing times (typically 2–5 years).
✖ Requires proof of legally sourced investment funds.

Comparing the EB-5 Visa with Other Investment Visas

1. E-2 Visa (Treaty Investor Visa)

The E-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign investors from treaty countries to start or buy a business in the U.S.

Key Differences from EB-5:
✔ Lower investment requirement (typically $100,000–$300,000).
✔ Faster processing times (few months vs. EB-5’s years).
✔ Renewable indefinitely if business remains operational.
✖ No direct path to a Green Card.
✖ Only available to citizens of treaty countries.

Best for: Entrepreneurs looking for a lower-cost alternative with business control but without immediate Green Card benefits.

Everything You Need to Know About the EB-5 Visa

2. L-1 Visa (Intracompany Transfer Visa)

The L-1 visa allows multinational companies to transfer executives or managers to the U.S. to open or expand a business.

Key Differences from EB-5:
✔ No specific investment requirement.
✔ Leads to a Green Card through EB-1C (but not automatically).
✔ Processing time is relatively fast.
✖ Requires an active managerial role.
✖ Limited to executives and managers of an existing overseas business.

Best for: Business owners or executives who want to expand a foreign company into the U.S..

3. EB-1C Visa (Multinational Executive or Manager)

The EB-1C visa is an employment-based immigrant visa designed for executives and managers working for multinational companies.

Key Differences from EB-5:
✔ Provides direct Green Card eligibility.
✔ No set investment amount.
✔ Faster than EB-5 for qualified applicants.
✖ Requires managerial experience in an overseas business.
✖ The U.S. company must have been operational for at least a year.

Best for: Senior executives of established multinational businesses looking for a direct Green Card without large investment amounts.

How to Secure an EB-5 Visa for US Residency

Which Visa is Right for You?

Visa Type	Investment Requirement	Green Card Eligibility	Business Control	Best For
EB-5	$800,000 – $1,050,000	Yes	Passive or active	Investors with high capital
E-2	$100,000 – $300,000	No	Full control	Small business owners
L-1	No set amount	Indirect (EB-1C)	Active management	Business expansion
EB-1C	No set amount	Yes	Senior management	Executives of multinational firms

 

Why Work with Mensk Consultancy?

Choosing the right investment visa can be complex. At Mensk Consultancy, we specialize in immigration services, guiding investors through every step of the process. Our services include:
✔ Visa eligibility assessment.
✔ Business and financial documentation support.
✔ Investment structure guidance.
✔ Application and compliance management.

Whether you are considering the EB-5, E-2, L-1, or EB-1C visa, we provide personalized assistance to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

Conclusion

Each investment visa serves different needs. The EB-5 visa is ideal for those seeking direct U.S. residency through investment, while the E-2, L-1, and EB-1C offer alternative paths depending on business involvement and investment size.

If you’re still unsure which visa best suits your situation, contact Mensk Consultancy for expert advice. We can help you navigate the U.S. immigration landscape and secure the right visa for your investment goals.