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Discover How Brazilians Are Taking Advantage of a Little-Known Program to Invest and Secure Residency in the U.S., Turning the Dream of American Citizenship into Reality Without Relying on Traditional Visas, with Benefits and Challenges That Few Know About.
The EB-5 visa stands out as one of the safest and most accessible ways for Brazilians to obtain permanent residence in the United States, offering the opportunity to legally live and work in the country through a minimum investment of US$ 800,000.
This model, created by the U.S. government in 1990, requires the investor to apply capital in businesses that create jobs in the U.S., aligning the dream of American citizenship with a financial contribution that drives the local economy.
In recent months, interest in the EB-5 has grown among Brazilians, especially executives, entrepreneurs, and families seeking more stability and quality of life abroad, according to D4U Immigration, a company specialized in immigration processes.
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Meanwhile, the recent announcement of the “Gold Card,” a new visa for investors with a minimum investment estimated at US$ 5 million and presented by former President Donald Trump in early 2025, remains a promise without clear details, reinforcing the popularity of EB-5 as a concrete alternative for those wanting to live legally in the United States.
What Is the Green Card and How Does the EB-5 Allow You to Obtain It
The Green Card is the document that guarantees permanent residency in the U.S., allowing the foreigner to work and live in the country legally, with a validity of ten years, renewable.
Among the ways to obtain this benefit, the EB-5 visa is prominent, as it allows immigration through economic investment.
The program was designed to encourage economic growth and job creation.
To obtain the Green Card through EB-5, the investor must invest at least US$ 800,000 in areas designated as target by the U.S. government, where economic impact and job generation are essential.
There are two main categories within EB-5:
- Direct Investment: the investor takes full control over the business, applying capital in a personal company or specific project.
It is mandatory to ensure the creation of at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
- Indirect Investment in Regional Centers: these programs approved by the U.S. government facilitate the process for investors who prefer a more passive involvement, without the need to directly manage the business.
Job creation can be indirect, making this option more flexible.
What Types of Businesses Qualify for EB-5?
Varied ventures are eligible, from personal shops such as markets, restaurants, and convenience stores, to franchises that already have established operational models and management support.
Experts warn that while personal businesses require detailed planning to ensure the creation of the required jobs, franchises present greater security as they have already proven their operational efficiency.
For many investors, what matters is that the investment and the number of jobs meet the program’s requirements to ensure the success of the process.
EB-5 Versus Gold Card: Which Is the Better Option?
The recent “Gold Card,” announced by Donald Trump, promises to attract foreign investors willing to invest at least US$ 5 million in the U.S.
However, until June 2025, there is no official regulation or details regarding timelines, criteria, or concrete benefits of the Gold Card, keeping the EB-5 as the most accessible and secure alternative for Brazilians who wish to live legally in the United States.
According to D4U Immigration, the EB-5 presents an important advantage: while the Gold Card would be a sunk cost investment, the EB-5 may allow for the recovery of invested capital, depending on the chosen project.
This factor, along with the solid track record and clear rules of the EB-5, has led to a constant increase in demand for this visa, especially among investors from Southeast and Northeast Brazil.
Profile of Brazilians Seeking EB-5
According to D4U, the audience interested in EB-5 includes executives looking to leave corporate positions to start new businesses, entrepreneurs seeking more stable environments for their ventures, and families aiming for safety, education, and quality of life in the United States.
Many view obtaining the Green Card via EB-5 as a life and career strategy, considering the economic, social, and professional benefits that permanent residency offers.
Risks and Challenges of EB-5
Like any investment, EB-5 carries financial and immigration risks.
The biggest challenge is choosing a project that truly meets the program’s requirements, especially creating the 10 required jobs and complying with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) regulations.
Additionally, the investor must prove the legal source of the funds, a rigorous process aimed at preventing fraud and money laundering.
Failure to meet these requirements may result in the denial of the Green Card application.
Other Alternatives for Brazilians in the U.S.
Besides EB-5, there are visas like EB-1 and EB-2, which also attract Brazilians with established careers in specific areas.
The EB-2, for example, can be granted even without a job offer when the candidate proves their work represents a substantial benefit to the U.S. through the National Interest Waiver (NIW).
The EB-1 is aimed at internationally recognized professionals in their fields, such as researchers and professors, expanding options for those seeking immigration by merit.
Why Is the Green Card So Important?
The Green Card is the gateway to American citizenship.
A permanent resident can apply for citizenship after five years of legally living in the U.S., or after three years if married to a U.S. citizen.
Having a Green Card guarantees the right to live, work, study in public schools, and access public services in the United States.
However, only U.S. citizens can vote or hold public office in the country.
According to Eduarda Costa, commercial director of D4U, the interest in the Green Card remains strong even in the face of stricter immigration rules, and the careful preparation of candidates has increased their chances of approval.
The United States continues to be the dream destination for many Brazilians seeking opportunities, safety, and quality of life.
Have you considered investing to obtain a Green Card or do you know someone on this journey? What are the main challenges you think Brazilians face in living legally in the U.S.?
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