Golden Visa & Real Estate: How Buying in Miami Can Help Secure Your U.S. Residency
February 4, 2025For high-net-worth individuals looking to establish residency in the United States, Miami has become a prime destination. Beyond its luxurious waterfront estates, high-rise penthouses, and vibrant culture, Miami offers an attractive opportunity for foreign investors: the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, commonly referred to as the “Golden Visa.” This program allows wealthy individuals and their families to obtain a U.S. Green Card by making a qualifying investment—often through real estate.
If you are considering Miami as your gateway to U.S. residency, this guide will break down how the Golden Visa works, how real estate plays a role, and why Miami is the ideal location for your investment.
What Is the Golden Visa (EB-5 Investor Program)?
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program was created by the U.S. government to stimulate economic growth by attracting foreign investments. The program grants permanent residency (a Green Card) to foreign investors and their immediate family members (spouse and children under 21) if they meet specific investment and job-creation requirements.
To qualify, investors must:
1. Invest at least $800,000 in a government-approved project within a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or $1,050,000 in a non-TEA project.
2. Ensure that their investment creates or preserves at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
3. Maintain the investment for a minimum of five years before applying for permanent residency.
Although the traditional EB-5 investment is in businesses or development projects, real estate investments can also qualify under certain conditions.
How Can Real Estate Help You Qualify for the Golden Visa?
Unlike some countries that allow direct real estate purchases to qualify for residency, the U.S. EB-5 program requires investments to create jobs. However, real estate developments—such as luxury hotels, condominiums, and mixed-use properties—often participate in EB-5 projects, making them a viable pathway for investors.
Ways to Use Real Estate for EB-5 Investment:
1. Investing in EB-5-Approved Real Estate Projects
• Many luxury real estate developments in Miami participate in the EB-5 program. By investing in these projects, foreign buyers can qualify for the visa while also benefiting from property appreciation and rental income.
2. Developing Your Own Real Estate Project
• If you plan to develop a commercial or mixed-use property that meets the job creation requirements, this could be a qualifying EB-5 investment.
3. Partnering with Regional Centers
• Regional Centers are government-approved entities that pool EB-5 investments into real estate and infrastructure projects. Investing through a Regional Center simplifies the process, as they handle job creation requirements and project management.
Why Miami Is the Best Place for EB-5 Real Estate Investments
Miami has long been a favorite destination for wealthy foreign buyers due to its booming luxury real estate market, tax advantages, and international appeal. Here’s why Miami stands out for EB-5 investors:
- Â High Demand for Luxury Real Estate
• Miami’s property market remains one of the strongest in the U.S., with continued appreciation and high demand from international buyers.
• Investing in luxury condos, waterfront estates, or branded residences provides strong returns and rental income potential.
2. Multiple EB-5-Eligible Projects
• Many high-end real estate developments in Miami accept EB-5 investments, including hotels, commercial buildings, and mixed-use towers in prime areas like Brickell, Downtown, and Miami Beach.
3. Business-Friendly & Tax Advantages
• Florida has no state income tax, inheritance tax, or estate tax, making it highly attractive for high-net-worth individuals.
• Miami’s economy is diverse and growing, ensuring that real estate and business investments continue to thrive.
4. A Global Hub for Business & Lifestyle
• Miami is a gateway city connecting the U.S. to Latin America, Europe, and Asia, making it a prime location for international entrepreneurs and investors.
• The city offers a luxury lifestyle, with world-class dining, shopping, private clubs, and high-end entertainment.
How to Get Started with a Golden Visa Real Estate Investment in Miami
1. Consult with an EB-5 Immigration Attorney
• Immigration laws can be complex, and working with an experienced EB-5 attorney will ensure compliance with all legal requirements.
2. Choose the Right EB-5 Real Estate Project
• Research approved EB-5 projects in Miami or work with an investment firm specializing in EB-5 real estate opportunities.
3. Make the Investment & File Form I-526
• Once you invest, your attorney will file the I-526 petition, which starts the EB-5 visa application process.
4. Wait for Visa Approval & Obtain Conditional Residency
• The approval process typically takes 1-2 years, after which investors and their families receive conditional Green Cards valid for two years.
5. Apply for Permanent Residency (I-829 Petition)
• After maintaining the investment and fulfilling job creation requirements for two years, investors can file for permanent residency (Green Card).
Final Thoughts: Is Miami the Right Choice for Your EB-5 Investment?
For high-net-worth investors looking to gain U.S. residency through real estate, Miami is one of the most attractive destinations. With its luxury property market, strong international appeal, and investor-friendly policies, the city offers an ideal mix of opportunity and lifestyle benefits.
If you’re considering an EB-5 investment in Miami real estate, it’s essential to work with experienced professionals, including immigration attorneys, investment advisors, and real estate experts specializing in EB-5 projects.