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Navigating USCIS audits: How EB-5 regional centers can prepare efficiently October 2024 Visa Bulletin: significant progress for legacy Chinese and Indian investors For the second year in a row, DOS issues all unreserved visas How to choose the right EB-5 lawyer U.S. permanent residency by investment FY 2024 Q1 data: strong EB-5 processing continues When Should EB-5 Investors Be Notified of a Potential Problem?Investor group meets a second time with CIS Ombudsman’s Office to discuss more fair EB-5 policies and processing The top EB-5 stories in 2024 could include processing, increased FOIA requests, and more denials and suspensions Bipartisan bill aims to create regional center committee to advise USCIS on how to improve the EB-5 program March 2024 Visa Bulletin: no EB-5 movement The US is considering giving India treaty-country status, which would enable Indians to pursue E-2 visas After serving prison term, former Jay Peak president is helping the receiver try to sell the property Q4 FY 2023 EB-5 data is good news for the industry: new filings and processing totals continue to rise USCIS is hiking up EB-5 filing fees on April 1, 2024 Consular processing improves globally 23.6% in FY 2023; no unreserved EB-5 visas wasted January 2024 Visa Bulletin: India's EB-5 unreserved date advances 2 years, China advances 2 months I-829 petition denial: why it happens and what to do U.S. national unemployment rate falls; EB-5 TEA threshold drops to 5%Hotel developers face higher interest rates in 2024, look to EB-5 as a cheaper funding source SEC charges NY businessman with fraud and unregistered sales of EB-5 investment; veteran immigration lawyer also charged The State of Texas wants to take over a 5,000-acre park purchased with EB-5 money Chinese EB-5 investors in Florida project settle claims with developer Mastroianni night before trial Developer of Brooklyn’s Pacific Park defaults; auction set for January Florida hotel developer who defrauded EB-5 investors starts prison sentence African EB-5 interest is growing E-2 visa to Green Card: EB-5 is the answer USCIS issues vital guidance: what it means for regional centers and investors Projecting the number of EB-5 reserved visas over the next 3 years Indian EB-5 investor accuses Florida immigration attorney of malpractice and acting as unregistered securities broker $57 million EB-5 lawsuit by Chinese investors dismissed; judge says lack of English skills no excuse for not understanding subscription agreements Vermont’s Kingdom Con fraud settlement sounds like a con too: lawyers get $5.5 million, many EB-5 investors to get only $1,000 each October Visa Bulletin: India’s unreserved final action date jumps forward 20 months; Date for Filing chart now used USCIS is failing to properly implement the RIA, IIUSA tells ombudsman; group wants regular meetings with the agency USCIS clarifies policy update that can protect many more derivative children applicants from ‘aging out’Regional center challenges USCIS requirement to reapply for designation in order to sponsor new projects Q2 FY 2023 EB-5 data: I-526E filings continue to increase, processing efficiency up 83%USCIS approves multiple rural EB-5 I-526E petitions in under 3 months India to postpone tax that will impact EB-5 investors Fund administration adds peace of mind for EB-5 investors USCIS introduces an online tool to reschedule biometric appointments August 2023 Visa Bulletin remains the same Chinese investors try a second time to get some of their capital back from EB-5 developer More efficient EB-5 processing introduced for pre-RIA I-526 petitions as of July 2023 EB-5 can bolster post-COVID economic recovery — but more visas are needed Oppenheim explains recent Indian retrogression, hopeful for positive change in October State of Vermont makes a final settlement with all 850 defrauded EB-5 investors — for pennies on the dollar Ease of doing business in countries like the U.S. drives the migration of Indian millionaires Florida draws South Africans thanks to a familiar climate and business opportunities, including farming Will more Turks leave their unstable homeland for the U.S.?Supreme court declines to challenge records exemption that allows Vermont to hide state involvement in Jay Peak fraud How EB-5 investors should prepare for a visa interview Q1 FY 2023 processing stats: I-526 filings surge, processing totals dip slightly USCIS job postings inspire hope of better EB-5 processing, guidance, and service Injunction filed on Florida foreign land ownership law that may have EB-5 implications Multiple options allow F-1 students to stay in the U.S. after graduation, including EB-5 The State of Vermont settles with 8 EB-5 investors, avoids testimony of former Governor; settlement with hundreds of investors may come Florida golf resort, funded in part by EB-5, approved for bankruptcy sale An economist’s perspective on job creation and TEAs after the RIA July visa bulletin remains the same Judge denies pre-RIA investors hoping to qualify for reserved visas Developer files for bankruptcy protection the day before the auction of the Chicago property Developer defaults on $157 million EB-5 loan for LA mega-project Washington waterfront EB-5 project put in receivership Burke Mountain resort receives offer; receiver hopes to hold an auction for the fraud-mired property EB-5 infrastructure projects hold great promise — but also great uncertainty right now GAO report summary part 3: USCIS data collection on EB-5 fraud and national security must evolve Chinese EB-5 activity may be at a five-year peak thanks to the end of lockdowns and the Reform Act Senator: New Florida law restricting foreign ownership of real estate not meant to impact EB-5 IIUSA holds industry conference, shares the latest goals for the program For hotel developers, EB-5 is both ‘quiet’ and ‘slow’ money Washington developer must pay $11.5 million in interest to EB-5 investors for a 2013 loan After years of lawsuits, the site of failed Chicago project will go to auction EB-5 lawsuit over ski project moved to federal court; investor alleges kickbacks to immigration lawyers GAO report summary, part 2: EB-5 fraud and national security concerns Can a pre-RIA regional center wind down and not pay any USCIS fees? India retrogresses 14 months in June 2023 Visa Bulletin Despite hotel demand returning to 2019 levels, funding is still a challenge — EB-5 can help Florida immigration lawyer disbarred after failing to refund EB-5 investors for double-paid fees Miami’s immigration building sells for $23 million; defrauded EB-5 investors to get back some of their $50 million Judge says ex-Jay Peak president's $250,000 restitution will stand; Stenger appeals Supreme Court declines disgorgement challenge by EB-5 fraudsters Oppenheim sees reserved categories staying ‘current’ on Visa Bulletin till mid-2024, talks Vietnam and pre-RIA rural projects New 2022 data shows national unemployment rate decrease; EB-5 TEA threshold drops to 5.48% Concurrent filing may offer EB-5 applicants in-state tuition rates in some but not all states Defrauded Jay Peak investors to receive 22% of their EB-5 losses Open letter to USCIS official blasts lack of I-526E receipt data and ‘ignorant and dangerous’ comment about Visa Bulletin Houston moving towards adaptive reuse of old buildings; creative financing, like EB-5, is needed Yahoo refuses to give up fraudster’s emails in EB-5 lawsuit Trial of American accused of EB-5 fraud in Nigeria delayed due to lawyer’s car troubles GAO report summary, part 1: EB-5 filing, adjudication, and regional center trends How to address EB-5 adjudication delays: a guide to mandamus relief The EB-5 ‘engagement’ that wasn’t: ignoring sustainment question is a ‘failure by USCIS’ EB-5 can help rebuild a territory devastated by disaster, like Puerto Rico Indians studying abroad at a 6-year high; EB-5 offers many benefits for students Wealthy Filipinos are thinking more about their children’s education and investors visas May 2023 Visa Bulletin: China advances 2 months Critics say DeSantis bill on Chinese land ownership in Florida is ‘discriminatory’ and will prohibit EB-5 investment EB-5 and cannabis: despite ‘illegal’ federal classification, it can work Investor group files 2nd FOIA lawsuit against USCIS over Vietnamese denials American Immigration Council: U.S. immigration agencies have a ‘problem with transparency’EB-5 developer's attorney may face sanctions for not properly vetting investor-settlement loan EB-5 project involving former immigration building in Miami becomes an immigration disaster COVID sinks plans for 17-acre Seattle lakefront project funded with $100 million of EB-5 money EB-5 fraudsters want Supreme Court to recalculate disgorgement sum; SEC disagrees Ex-Jay Peak president says new evidence shows state is to blame for EB-5 fraud, wants relief from $250,000 restitution order Options abound for laid-off H-1B visa workers, including EB-5 and switching lead-applicant status to spouse EB-5 investor group files amicus brief to help investor mandamus lawsuits; court outcome could be critical precedent EB-5 investors fail to post $100 million bond to block foreclosure on giant LA project Creators of Summit Series celebrity conferences tried to build utopia in the mountains with EB-5 money — but the plan ends in failure and lawsuits Fraud battle over Chicago EB-5 project drags on; investor legal team claims tens of millions diverted to hidden accounts The state of EB-5 in Taiwan in 2023: cause for cautious optimism Banking failures and EB-5: the way forward in 2023 The EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act: where we are one year later in 2023 DHS argues against investor lawsuit that demands reserved visas for pre-RIA investors Can a new direct investor join a pre-RIA project that already has investors?USCIS publishes new I-956, I-526 and I-526E forms; removes biometrics requirement for new investors EB-5 funding in the restoration of historic U.S. buildings can benefit developers and investors FY 2022 Visa Office report: EB-5 consular processing suffered, petitioners adjusting status benefited An examination of the Vietnamese EB-5 market: excitement and challenges USCIS now collecting EB-5 regional center fees for Integrity Fund Which EB-5 regional centers must pay the Integrity Fund fee? Tech layoffs hit Indian H-1B holders hard: ‘absolutely harrowing’EB-5 investor group: USCIS proposed fee increase are a ‘disconnect with reality’EB-5 Investor suing lawyer for conflict of interest and malpractice has claims dismissed for being too late Developer of West Palm Beach resort files for Chapter 11 same day as $95 million foreclosure judgment Cannabis company using EB-5 for $500 capital raise denies fraud allegations Signature Bank, EB-5’s largest escrow agent, shuts down; government takes over and guarantees deposits USCIS March Visa Bulletin reveals 16-month retrogression for Indian EB-5 investors Issuers and investors clash over changes to the EB-5 sustainment period — and the need for redeployment New data increases number of high-unemployment TEAs USCIS extends permanent residency 48 months past I-829 expiration Former Jay Peak president says state ‘covered up’ $200 million fraud and lied about ‘auditor’ role in projects Indian budget has 20% advance tax for EB-5 investments — but can be refunded later Investors in foreclosed Hawaii EB-5 project forced to dismiss suit and go to arbitration Judge says ’enough’ in Chicago EB-5 Carillon Tower lawsuit New USCIS policy may prevent EB-5 children from ‘aging out’An examination of the Chinese EB-5 market: old challenges and new opportunities What are the requirements for regional centers that are no longer raising capital?As interest rates rise, developers will turn to EB-5 and build rural projects near major cities USCIS to hold EB-5 stakeholder engagement, March 20, 2023 Charlie Oppenheim speaks on EB-5 visa numbers and expects USCIS to switch to final action dates soon USCIS offers guidance to nonimmigrant workers with terminated employment; EB-5 and adjustment of status is one solution USCIS releases new form for EB-5 promoters As South Africa faces economic and political instability, second residency in U.S. is attractive to many Pre-Reform Act Chinese investors launch lawsuit arguing they should qualify for reserved visas Oakland businessman sentenced to 16 months in prison for EB-5 fraud with multiple projects Regional center says EB-5 investors who claimed they didn’t know what they were signing are ‘lying’2 Miami properties paid for with EB-5 capital to be auctioned off Q4 FY 2022 EB-5 processing numbers continue to improve; investor petition denials higher than approvals USCIS proposes much higher EB-5 filing fees to pay for more staff and to spend significantly more time per application Feds seek 4 years in prison for California EB-5 con artist Disbarred lawyer hit with new investor EB-5 fraud lawsuit New regulations and global uncertainty spur interest in EB-5 3 choices for developers who need an EB-5 regional center Questions and answers about post-RIA EB-5 forms USCIS undecided on what will happen to pre-RIA EB-5 projects and regional centers that don’t file an I-956 Indian and Middle Eastern EB-5 source of funds: an immigration lawyer speaks to the challenges and solutions H-1B visa holder and recently laid off? EB-5 may be the answer.Indian EB-5 investors and the Reform and Integrity Act: an immigration lawyer’s perspective Who should be seen as an EB-5 ‘promoter’ and what are their requirements?RIA makes ‘momentous change’ to requirement for time needed to keep EB-5 capital at risk EB-5 FY 2022 Q3 processing data: I-526 numbers continue to improve but still a long way off from 2020 highs EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act compliance for regional centers Top EB-5 lawyers discuss I-526e processing times: standard, priority, and expedited 'Comments from Robert C. Divine for USCIS EB-5 Forms' & 'Supplementary Comments of Robert Divine for I-956G and I-956K, as well as I-526E'Did USCIS use all available employment-based visas for FY 2022?USCIS publishes draft of EB-5 promoter registration form; responsibilities and questions abound Jay Peak, site of biggest EB-5 fraud ever, finally sold — for $76 million Texas businessman accused of defrauding EB-5 investors argues there is no proof Developers of Chicago tower project agree to pay $27.5 million to EB-5 investors Biden commission recommends improved Green Card processing, says USCIS will hire 200 to 500 new officers Oppenheim says country caps apply to set-asides — far fewer reserved visas will go to those who need them Compliance with the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022: Requirements and Considerations EB-5 rural investment project, Western Energy Checklist of contents of regional center compliance policies and procedures manual under EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act California lawyer disbarred after EB-5 scam, must forfeit 7 properties worth over $20 million Developer who misappropriated investors funds permanently barred from EB-5 Visa Bulletin: India no longer ‘current’ in unreserved category and China regresses 9 months For the first time in years, USCIS announces EB-5 stakeholder engagement with live Q&A USCIS invites public comment on new EB-5 forms, offers estimated applicants and hours of work for each form 100s of Chinese investors file suit to force government to stop wastage of EB-5 visas EB-5 lawsuit settlement: previously approved regional centers back in business, new investors can file now I didn’t want EB-5 reauthorization in January — but now I’m glad 2022 EB-5: rural advantages help businesses and investors Fund administration or annual audits — both satisfy EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act compliance requirements, but are they equal? As Vietnam’s economy and number of millionaires grow, so does its need for global migration — and EB-5 Spending bill adds provision to rollover unused visas — including EB-5 USCIS removes references to 'repealed' EB-5 regional centers in Q&A — a sign that the fight is over?New York pair defrauded EB-5 investors, promised access to politicians, and used investor money to make illegal political donations Will increased RIA compliance costs price smaller EB-5 projects out of the market?State drops charges against 4th man involved in $93 million Vermont EB-5 fraud Mega developer Mastroianni settles claims, avoids class action suit from 199 EB-5 investors New York developer accused of using investor money to buy 3 mansions Hearing held to consider restraining order on EB-5 recertification requirement 4 members of Congress request that USCIS forego recertification of past regional centers June Visa Bulletin: China no longer ‘current’ in unreserved direct EB-5 category Did Chicago developer know a loan to pay settlement to EB-5 investors was a scam?Jay Peak’s Stenger starts prison term, says he regrets not paying more attention to EB-5 fraud 2022 trends for the migration of the wealthy What the RIA legislation requires of EB-5 promoters Leaked USCIS data: EB-5 processing progresses but still way behind Preliminary injunction puts EB-5 regional centers back in business What’s going on with EB-5 in 2022? What’s the future?New EB-5 regional center application I-956 is far more open-ended, will likely result in RFEs for all applicants Quiros, Jay Peak EB-5 fraud mastermind, sentenced to 5 years for biomedical ‘ghost’ project India has 10-year EB-5 backlog in 2022 Concurrent filing: EB-5 investors can enjoy Green Card benefits before getting a Green Card New USCIS Q&A: All existing EB-5 regional centers have become decommissioned; new regional center designation now requires approval of new form I-956 Answers to reauthorization questions 5 goals on the political agenda for EB-5 in 2022 and beyond New EB-5 legislation is a big win for rural businesses, communities & investors EB-5 investor requirements The U.S. green card by investment process Nigerian EB-5 investors & the travel ban: solutions & optimism Congress approves spending bill with five-year EB-5 reauthorization and major program changes What would a Biden or Trump win mean for EB-5?Navigating The New World Of Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs)An introduction to E-2 visas: the fast-track in to the U.S.Wired for success: are investments in tech companies suitable for EB-5?USCIS loses appeal of landmark decision: EB-5 investors can use unsecured loans as investment capital The South African EB-5 market and its unique perspective Could Chinese EB-5 waits now be as short as 6-8 years?Oppenheim speech: EB-5 could lose then gain visas; India is ‘current’ and may not face retrogression ‘in the foreseeable future’Do jobs need to be sustained for two years to satisfy EB-5 program requirements?Construction stops after California residential and retail EB-5 project hit with bankruptcy and lawsuits USCIS ‘illegal’ I-829 processing times, combined with COVID-19 issues, can leave some families without evidence of lawful status I-526 FY 2019 Q2 stats: filings, approvals & processing way, way down Expedited requests: show USCIS objective evidence — and pull on their heart strings Charlie Oppenheim: employment-based visa total will be at an all-time high in FY 2022 Current version of EB–5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022: some key elements Round 3: response to lawyers’ critique of article saying the Regional Center Program should stay expired 3 Top Lawyers Talk Expedited EB-5 Processing in 2022 Grandfathering and regional center reauthorization are separate issues; big-city developers are ‘dominating’ the EB-5 discussion with Congress Immigration lawyers discuss the issue of grandfathering past EB-5 investors EB-5 investor group meets with Congressional staff, sees 'no urgency for reauthorization'6 immigration lawyers reflect on 2021 — and predict 2022 and beyond for EB-5 Developer, beset by EB-5 fraud lawsuit, hopes to sell equity in Hawaii project for $50 million Continuing resolution keeps EB-5 reauthorization at bay until at least late February EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2020: IIUSA believes it’s positive and a stepping stone to more visas DHS drops appeal of Behring lawsuit — $500,000 EB-5 investments will stick around 2021 sees ‘dramatic increase’ in EB-5 investment from United Arab Emirates Is “Ghost Hotel” In A New York State Village Just A Scam To Lure EB-5 Investors?Just 32% of available FY 2020 EB-5 visas used; COVID-19 largely to blame Will ambitious industry-consensus reauthorization text be attached to a December appropriations bill?The EB-5 Regional Center Program should stay expired as a better alternative already exists EB-5 direct investing is alive and well at $500,000: Watch webinar and read panelist Q&A USCIS avoids August 30 furlough of 70% of staff — but at a price White House seeks reauthorization of EB-5 Regional Center Program AILA opposes revised fairness for High Skilled Immigrants Act, supports RELIEF Act as the answer for removing country caps New EB-5 priority date retention explained & who it helps most Hong Kong is a top EB-5 market — with one in three residents looking to emigrate USCIS consolidates discretionary analysis policy — how it applies to EB-5 EB-5 market trends thus far in 2020 — and what’s on the horizon When patience is no longer a virtue: mandamus filing as a solution for pending EB-5 applications USCIS EB-5 processing times define ‘abnormal and delayed processing’Can cryptocurrency be approved as a source of funds?USCIS updates expedite request policy – what it means for EB-5 Key considerations when an EB-5 investor files an I-485 to adjust status in the U.S.25 top immigration lawyers comment on the future of EB-5: the market will adjust as investors & projects diversify Filing an I-526 petition for your EB-5 investor Visa Q3 2020 EB-5 numbers: I-526 receipts remain extremely low; I-526 denials leap to 37%Don’t be afraid of filing a mandamus — and know who your EB-5 lawyer is working for Act that would eliminate EB-5 country caps passes Senate ‘Smart’ tax planning for EB-5 investors begins long before a Green Card Ethical and practical considerations in EB-5 representation Brazil is producing more millionaires — and more interest in acquiring a ‘priceless’ future in the U.S. via EB-5 To stimulate economy, Trump is reportedly considering EB-5 changes — increasing visa numbers & decreasing investment amounts Former TV host Bill O’Reilly does radio ad for EB-5 developer — offering a ’10% monthly payout’As EB-5 is set to expire in less than 6 months, IIUSA says ‘crisis becomes an opportunity’East Asian investors accuse Chinese family of running EB-5 scam Trump Executive Order to end separate treatment of Hong Kong — making it subject to China’s EB-5 backlog IIUSA answers FAQ on EB-5 reauthorization Chicago lawyer who sold EB-5 investments denied in bid to dismiss SEC fraud lawsuit 200 Asian investors victims of California's largest EB-5 fraud ever?Investors still owed their EB-5 capital for Colorado condos seek to remove regional center and take control of loan Top EB-5 economists discuss trends and the future of the program 23 Jay Peak EB-5 investors agree to $8 million settlement with former immigration attorneys — but will only receive $350,000 in total USCIS policy guidance: good news for some individuals with terminated CPR status Lights out for massive government-backed solar energy project built with $170 million of EB-5 money Former Regional Center director sues mega developer for $65 million 8 Regional Centers and 22 NCEs sue government over 2020 redeployment policy guidance $1.8 billion LA project, backed by $450 million of EB-5 money, faces huge questions due to pandemic FY 2019 Q4 processing: high I-526 denials continue; I-829 numbers much more positive Federal appeals court overturns USCIS decision on EB-5 guaranteed redemption, establishes new definition of ‘at risk’EB-5 extended only till June 30 — we may now have a few months to ensure long-term survival and stability ‘It all comes down to greed’: ex-White House aide and partner guilty of EB-5 fraud in post-Katrina New Orleans Chinese man implicated in EB-5 fraud claims he is the victim of impersonation, & says SEC has no jurisdiction over him I-526 data: 5-year lows for filing, processing & approvals Biden immigration bill would have massive impact on employment-based visas, including clearing EB-5 backlogs California Lawyer Settles $23 Million Fraud Suit For Just $45,000 Factors impacting EB-5 timing in 2020; is USCIS inflating published processing times? You’ve got a 'friend' request from the Department of State: form DS-260 now requires social media disclosure House passes bill that would remove country caps for immigrant visas, including EB-5 Florida judge allows EB-5 investor lawsuit against Harbourside developer Mastroianni to go forward Could prioritizing adjustment of status for Indian investors be key to managing the EB-5 backlog?Former EB -5 investor alleges regional center paid secret kickbacks to Chinese firm that sold ‘due diligence’ to investors Ruling in Mandamus lawsuit a big win for EB-5 — published processing times should not define unreasonable delays Pandemic puts investors at different stages in the EB-5 process at risk Japan may be the land of the rising EB-5 interest Nigerian businessman testifies how he lost his money to a serial regional center fraudster Hudson Yards, most expensive U.S. real-estate project ever, damned for using EB-5 money meant for distressed areas House Rep: it’s ‘clear’ China’s EB-5 investors ‘may be abusing the program’ to steal intellectual property and state secrets Quiros could face up to 8 years in jail for biomedical facility fraud; Stenger’s lawyers want to cross-examine developer With the Coronavirus impact on the economy, should investors worry about filing their I-829?Lawyer for Palm House developer faces up to 230 years in prison for his role in EB-5 fraud USCIS posts 234 months as outer limit of EB-5 I-829 processing; what’s really ‘normal'In two separate mandamus lawsuits, judges reject USCIS ‘average processing times’ as defense for lengthy EB-5 waits New fiscal year, new EB-5 visa count — almost double last year’s number: potentially great news for India, Vietnam, & China Latest visa office EB-5 stats published; South American activity growing & second-biggest region after Asia Japanese investor claims he was victim of fraud in a Hawaii EB-5 project American EB-5 fraudster, a fugitive living in Nigeria, is behind crime syndicate trying to sell stolen crude oil Developer says investors’ lawsuit should be dismissed after approving additional loans with top repayment priority Florida bank & EB-5 hotel developer deny role in $21-million investor fraud Bank accused of conspiring with Florida fraudster settles with EB-5 investors USCIS Posts Huge Drop In I-526 Processing Time: From 19.8 To 12.6 Months Investors in Palm Beach hotel scam awarded $37 million Contrary to defendant’s wish, judge says fraudulent developer needs receivership supervision IIUSA urges USCIS to continue to hold pending EB-5 petitions in abeyance in 2022 EB-5 legislation is the problem and solution for regional center reauthorization BreezLyte Q&A with senior management Creating jobs? Your business could raise low-cost, non-dilutive, equity capital with EB-5 The role of due diligence in EB-5 in 2021 Could direct EB-5 processing times be less than a year?Indian students enter U.S. in record numbers — EB-5 is one of their best routes Investors suing Vermont blocked from records Biden lifting travel ban is good news for EB-5 California developer pleads guilty to defrauding investors, using over $2 million for personal expenses Q&A with Chairman of 12-15 Molecular Diagnostics Q&A with Robert Easter (President) and Chuck Dockery (CEO) of American Industrial Brands American Industrial Brands raises capital for expansion through the direct EB-5 investment program A new breed of Direct EB-5 investments compares favourably with Regional Center investments Unsealed records: Vermont State knew of rampant EB-5 fraud one year before stopping Jay Peak and other projects The EB-5 migration of HNWI from Chile and other Latin American countries into the U.S.Former Jay Peak president alleges state of Vermont complicit in Jay Peak fraud, asks judge to release sealed records How direct EB-5 investments help the U.S. economy (in ways that regional center investments do not)Biden’s pick Ur Jaddou confirmed to lead USCIS; improved EB-5 processing is a priority August Visa Bulletin: Vietnam is now ‘current’ in non-regional center EB-5 program Former Acting Director of USCIS: make a direct EB-5 investment at $500,000 ‘until new regs come out'Zhang vs. USCIS: the profound impact of loans as a source of funds for investors Former White House military aide and business partner sentenced 8.5 Years in prison for EB-5 fraud in New Orleans Appeals court rules that EB-5 investor family members do count against 10,000 annual visa quota The $500,000 EB-5 ruling: two top immigration lawyers answer questions, explain investor impact USCIS is unlikely to increase the $500,000 minimum EB-5 investment amount until the Regional Center Program returns USCIS appeals June 22 court decision, challenges return of $500,000 EB-5 investment amount EB-5 Integrity Act 2021: Capitol Hill reauthorization update FY 2021 Q1 published for EB-5 I-526 & I-829 processing Bipartisan support for Integrity Act in the House of Representatives — EB-5 viewed as vital for economic growth An overview of the groundbreaking EB-5 case ‘Zhang V. USCIS’USCIS makes EB-5 history, approves Zhang I-526 petition with unsecured loan as source of funds What are the practical impacts if EB-5 is not reauthorized by June 30?House and Senate EB-5 reauthorization bills pick up more co-sponsors — from both parties Will EB-5 I-526 processing waits be just a year in the near future?EB-5 to expire after June 30th – but bills still alive in Congress and reauthorization can still happen ‘Until further notice’ USCIS will not accept new EB-5 regional center I-526 petitions during lapse Doctor must pay $3.5 million for role in EB-5 nursing home scam Vietnamese EB-5 investors allege their investment in hotel outside Disney World was improperly returned — after program changes raised minimum amounts EB-5 investors agree to drop lawsuit against former bank employee in exchange for evidence against other defendants in Miami Beach hotel Fraud Case Mayorkas confirms EB-5 Final Rule — and shuts down speculation of decrease to $500,000 investment level EB-5 reauthorization support grows with national realtor and hotel associations joining coalition Couple ordered to pay $1.6 million to EB-5 investor who spent $1.5 million USCIS reverses decision to shut down Vermont EB-5 Regional Center — Green Card hopes for defrauded Jay Peak investors?Former EB-5 investor pleads guilty to illegally exporting U.S. technology to China, money laundering, visa fraud Mastroianni’s regional center sues EB-5 project lender in effort to stop Manhattan project foreclosure Watch now: IIUSA EB-5 webinar on South Africa SEC wants EB-5 fraudster Liu to pay back almost $21 million in disgorgement Why EB-5 needs permanent reauthorization Jay Peak receiver settles for $1.75 million with bank accused of aiding historic EB-5 fraud Residential housing should be a long-term home for EB-5 EB-5 reauthorization 2021: hotel industry needs EB-5 more than ever What Biden’s recent executive order means for EB-5 adjudications Court orders two California EB-5 fraudsters to disgorge $20.8 Million, disallows claim of $7.5M in salaries Unpublished blueprint draft shows Biden wants to expand legal immigration, reduce EB-5 backlogs Jay Peak CEO Stenger claims aide for former Governor Shumlin could be EB-5 fraud ‘co-conspirator’2021 EB-5 News: Biden’s nominee for USCIS Director aims to ‘resolve dramatically increasing processing times and backlog’Judge certifies class in $100-million lawsuit against mega-developer Mastroianni July Visa Bulletin: Vietnam Makes Record 717-Day EB-5 Advancement USCIS is unlikely to increase the EB-5 $500,000 minimum investment amount until the Regional Center Program returns EB-5 stakeholder group submits reform proposal to judiciary committees: increased investment amounts, expedited TEA processing & eliminating family members from quota count November EB-5 Visa Bulletin: slight advancement for Vietnam Lawyer’s advice on EB-5 redeployment: issuer’s notice to investors is critical; start process early Does the world’s biggest country have big EB-5 potential? Da!Former Vermont governor & officials resist deposition in Jay Peak lawsuit; investors’ lawyer says the state is hiding the truth EB-5 trade association sends memo to USCIS about redeployment: claims no legal requirement — and if required, any investment should qualify Contrary to recent IPO promise of even faster I-526 & I-829 processing, FY 2019 Q1 productivity plummets 36%3 out of 5 Chinese investors would walk away rather than redeploy; almost 1 in 3 don’t fully understand the policy Investor’s $1 million not “at risk” due to sell option — petition denied even after attempt to remove option Latin America EB-5 interest grows Chinese EB-5 investors turn to WeChat to correct “information imbalance” — and group together to sue Trump’s merit-based immigration plan: what it’s about and what it could mean for EB-5 & reactions Expert tells USCIS that Bitcoin should qualify as an EB-5 source of funds Investor sues developer of stalled Brooklyn megaproject that can’t be approved by USCIS or city USCIS quietly publishes redeployment Q&A IIUSA launches coalition to save and create jobs to support EB-5 reauthorization EB-5 investors in U.S. need to evaluate tax-filing strategy April 2021 EB-5 Visa bulletin: big increase for Vietnam California Regional center says USCIS denial of Hawaii EB-5 project is discriminatory as it precludes mainland oversight Judge denies request by Quiros adviser Kelly to sever EB-5 fraud trial from CEO Stenger Vermont, home of EB-5’s largest fraud ever, welcomes new reform bill Biden’s ‘complete change of tone’ about immigration represents a philosophical paradigm shift for America and EB-5 How the EB-5 reform and integrity Act of 2021 differs from the 2020 version Why Regional Center Job Creation Can’t Count In Direct Investments: 2 Different Definitions Of ‘Direct’USCIS quietly responds to some EB-5 industry questions with new release The silent dog barks! – why corporate governance matters so much to EB-5 funds right now.The advantages broker/dealers bring to issuers & investors in EB-5 What the new EB-5 regulations mean for securities disclosures Redeployment considerations for EB-5 investors Don’t look to just the visa bulletin when estimating EB-5 wait times Why EB-5 goes wrong for some investors: an immigration lawyer shares insight May EB-5 Visa Bulletin: Vietnam advances 68 days Bob Kraft re-elected as President of IIUSA Quirios’ legal team, accused of aiding Jay Peak EB-5 fraud, agrees to $32.5 million settlement with receiver Kelly, key advisor to developer Quiros, agrees to 3-year prison deal for his role in massive EB-5 medical facility fraud Performing due diligence on economic impact studies Our EB-5 Due Diligence Process The Role of the Broker Dealer in EB-5 How should investors conduct due diligence?Is Jay Peak worth a fraction of the $282 million of EB-5 capital it raised?State official says Quiros’ guilt ‘beyond doubt’ in EB-5 biomedical fraud Zhang v. USCIS: the profound impact of loans as a source of funds for investors Why USCIS ‘clarification’ that redeployment must occur in a regional center’s geographic area is wrong USCIS set to furlough 67% of employees on August 30 Lawyer sentenced to almost 4 years in prison and ordered to repay $5.9 million for faking job creation in EB-5 fraud USCIS made mistake with investor denials, contradicted its ‘at risk’ definition: Federal appeals court AILA & IIUSA oppose USCIS redeployment ‘clarification’USCIS continues to extend response time for certain EB-5 notices and requests Law firm and ex-partner sued by regional center for helping company officer launch rival business Auditor of Quiros EB-5 fraud: State of Vermont was in conflict from the start What the SEC’s broadened definition of ‘accredited investor’ means for EB-5 Ukrainian EB-5 investor withdraws petition, sues New Hampshire ski resort for return of capital EB-5 investors allege Syracuse developer of payment default, shielding assets to avoid repayment Defrauded Chinese EB-5 investors can’t sue bank that held their capital Some Miami developers still looking to build hotels with EB-5 capital, including Mexican ‘flight money’Is Jay Peak audit at best ‘a whitewash', and ‘at worst a cover-up?’Default judgement against Miami developer accused of fraud who missed last 3 depositions New York grocery store company wants EB-5 investor suit thrown out Miami EB-5 hotel ownership, led by regional center managers, sues architect over alleged defects and delayed Opening SEC Seeks Restoration Of $15.5 Million Disgorgement Judgement Against Couple Who Committed “Brazen And Intentional” EB-5 Fraud IIUSA EB-5 processing & redeployment questions for IPO Chief Sarah Kendall to address at November Industry Forum Regional center to foreclose on Cleveland hotel built with EB-5 money High-profile Montana Senate race has Republicans call out Democratic support of Chinese EB-5 investment — despite their own Chinese ties 3 significant ways EB-5 has changed so far in 2020 News organization, Cornell Law School & ACLU take state of Vermont to court over blocked EB-5 records Receiver agrees to $7 million settlement in California EB-5 fraud suit Immigration lawyer’s Crystal Ball sees losing recent rule as well as country caps Kendal At IIUSA 2020 virtual forum: I-526 & I-829 processing numbers up substantially this year Wealthy Republican donors support Mayorkas to lead immigration & EB-5: ‘an effective leader with deep professionalism and integrity’Chinese Investors To Get Back $49 Million From Undeveloped Chicago Condo-Hotel EB-5 Project 199 EB-5 investors seek class certification in lawsuit against mega developer California man who conned investors out of $147 million, and offered EB-5 visas to some, faces 10 years in prison Judges in appeals court consider argument that spouses and children shouldn’t count towards EB-5 cap Government Accountability Office Agrees To Investigate USCIS Backlog How EB-5 Projects & Opportunity Zones Are Similar Is The New York Wheel Rolling Again?Deadwood Grand Settles With EB-5 Investors — Lawsuits Over Failure To Repay Loans Expected To Be Dismissed EB-5 Investors Sue Developers Of Foreclosed Vegas Casino — Green Card Possibility Still Alive?Gulf EB-5 Investors Expected To Flood In Before Program Changes Advice To EB-5 Issuers After Closing Retrogression Q&A: Why A Priority Date Is Important & More Oppenheim Delivers Visa Forecasts: Indian Wait Times To Increase Substantially Jay Peak Developers Finally Face Criminal Charges Over Biotech Project Funded By EB-5 Chicago Immigration Lawyer Who Sold EB-5 Investments Faces Renewed Lawsuit Alleging Fraud Professional South Africans leaving their homeland at record pace — why some are choosing EB-5 & the U.S.Bill Introduced To Set Aside 100 EB-5 Visas For Major Disaster Areas Immigration Attorney Who Defrauded About 150 EB-5 Investors Now Fully Barred From The Securities Industry February visa bulletin: Vietnam advances 16 days How to avoid unintentional abandonment of Green Card status while waiting for I-829 approval California attorney who never wanted to practice law is sentenced for defrauding 100 EB-5 investors Mayorkas draws closer to leading DHS — ‘the best news’ for EB-5 processing productivity Regional Center Seeks To Collect Debt From Investors Of Development Company EB-5 I-526 filing trending up in Q4 FY2020; adjudications up 23% since Q3 Courts begin to answer disgorgement questions left by supreme court EB-5 ruling Chinese investors launch lawsuit, claim LA project mired in troubles and halted for two years Florida bank settles with second group of EB-5 investors who claim the bank enabled fraudster to steal their money Florida developer who abandoned EB-5 project — and defense of fraud accusations — is ordered to pay $26.5 million to investors FY 2020 I-829 full year stats now available: highest adjudications ever for EB-5 3 lawyers present the case for optimism in EB-5: new leadership and economic need means the program is ‘too important to expire’Who benefits from the new EB-5 regulations, and who doesn’t USA investment Visa – top 7 reasons to move to the USA How regional centers should maintain proper oversight for annual certification Restructuring your NCE operating documents for redeployment How is COVID-19 impacting TEA’s?EB-5 tax implications for Canadian investors EB-5 expert discusses how fund managers can avoid investor challenges from redeployment decisions Immigration lawyers face ‘securities minefields’ when helping clients pick EB-5 projects

Categories

Processing Times Politics & Policy Legal Drama Fraud Global Markets Commentary Webinar Video Podcast

Lawyers

Mitch Wexler Rakesh Patel Edward C. Beshara Rogelio J. Carrasquillo Dennis Tristani Robert Gaffney Joel Yanovich Sonia Oliveri Christian Triantaphyllis Martin Lawler Andy Semotiuk Larry J. Behar Robert Divine Joseph Barnett Michael Harris Natalia Polukhtin

Fundamentals

Checklist for Regional Center Compliance Manual Migration Agents Matter of Ho Definition of Rural in EB-5 EB-5 Reform & Integrity Act of 2022 EB-5 Sustainment Period (Pre-RIA)Invest in Equity or a Loan Use of a Loan for Investment Form I-956F What is EB-5?E-2 Treaty Countries U.S. Residency Guarantees of Success Jay Peak Fraud Tax Planning EB-5 Compliant Business plan Investment Amounts FINRA Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)Bridge Capital Financing Raising EB-5 Capital Commissions Construction Jobs Participation in Management DS-260 & Consular Processing Investor Markets Conflicts of Interest Site Visit Collateral Risk Mitigation Escrow Offering Package Exit Strategy Administration Fee Troubled Business EB-5 Fraud EB-5 Visa Backlog Relief Retrogression EB-5 Statistics IIUSA Exemplar Approval E-2 Visa: Potential Bridge to EB-5 Modernization Rule of 2019 Program Requirements Impermissible Loan Agreement EB-5 Grandfathering How Long Jobs Must Last Tenant Occupancy Consular Processing Regional Center Annual Statements USCIS: The Agency Form I-924 Form I-485 Immigration Agents Currency Exchangers EB-5 Adjudication Process 'At Risk’ Requirement Common Reasons For Denial Behring Lawsuits Redeployment Regional Centers Immigration Lawyers (EB-5)Job Creation Requirements EB-5 Filing Process U.S. Immigration-by-Investment Program Concurrent Filing Priority Date and Visa Bulletin Due Diligence Job Creating Entity (JCE)New Commercial Enterprise (NCE)Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs)Form I-829 I-526 Processing Times Form I-526E & I-526 The EB-5 Process in 2023 Source of Funds