The Immigrant Investor Program, also known as EB-5, was created in 1990 by Congress with the objective of invigorating the U.S. economy and the job market through foreign capital investments. EB-5 investors are required to invest in a new commercial enterprise for a minimum amount, and on a venture that will generate a pre-determined number of jobs. In exchange, the investors are given the opportunity to gain lawful permanent residency in the U.S.

Eventually, the EB-5 visa would become the center of a number of complaints and fraud allegations. This is where lawyers, such as one from the Law Offices of Alex Benedict and Associates, come in. They are knowledgeable in immigration laws and the EB-5, and would know how to handle cases related to the EB-5.

Interested investors seeking to put up their own business in the U.S., or fund a business in the U.S. through the EB-5 program can be susceptible to such investigations. Lawyers experienced in EB-5 laws will protect their clients' rights, particularly foreign investors who may lack familiarity with the U.S. justice, immigration, and investment systems.

Other common problems surrounding EB-5 happen during the application process itself. One of these is proving the source of the funds. This can be especially complicated when the investor has difficulty providing tax returns. One of the main requirements from foreign investors is to provide this information. Working with a lawyer with experience in EB-5 and immigration laws would ensure that there will be no problems during the application process, and related steps down the road.

Potential investors must keep a few things in mind regarding EB-5. First of all, just because a business has been labelled as a regional center by USCIS doesn't mean that the investment they are offering has been approved by the USCIS or the SEC. To avoid putting in their money on non-qualified investments, investors should carefully review regional centers' approval and designation documents, as well their investment information.

Investors can also benefit from the guidance of a lawyer. They should make sure, however, that they work with lawyers like Alex Benedict, who have extensive knowledge of EB-5 laws and can protect their clients' interests well. For more information regarding EB-5, visit sec.gov/investor/alerts/ia_immigrant.htm.