Why Turks Are Opting for the EB-5 Visa?

The EB-5 visa program offers a unique blend of benefits that appeal to Turkish investors and their families. The economic opportunities, access to quality education, enhanced career prospects, improved quality of life, and political stability are compelling reasons for the increasing interest in this visa category. As the U.S. continues to attract global talent and investment, the EB-5 program remains a valuable pathway for Turkish people new horizons and better prospects for themselves and their future generations.
The EB-5 visa program, also known as the Immigrant Investor Program, has gained significant traction among Turkish nationals in recent years. This visa, which offers a pathway to permanent residency in the United States, requires substantial financial investment but provides numerous benefits that make it an attractive option for many. This article delves into the reasons why Turkish are increasingly opting for the EB-5 visa, exploring economic, educational, social, and political factors.

Economic Incentives

1. Business Opportunities: The United States is a global economic powerhouse, offering unparalleled business opportunities. For Türkiye entrepreneurs and investors, the EB-5 visa presents a chance to establish or expand businesses in a stable and lucrative market. The U.S. economy, characterized by its diversity and innovation, provides a fertile ground for businesses to thrive, making the investment required for the EB-5 visa a worthwhile expenditure.

2. Job Creation: The EB-5 program mandates that investments must create at least ten full-time jobs for U.S. workers. This requirement aligns with the entrepreneurial spirit prevalent among many Turk investors, who see this as an opportunity not only to gain residency but also to contribute positively to the economy. By creating jobs, they can play a role in the economic development of their local communities in the U.S.

3. Financial Security and Returns: Investing in the U.S. offers a level of financial security and potential returns that are often not available in Türkiye. The stability of the U.S. financial system, coupled with opportunities for growth, attracts Turkish investors looking to diversify their portfolios and secure their wealth in a stable economy.

4. Opening a bank account: People with EB-5 investment visas can open bank accounts in US banks to earn interest on their money or to make transactions abroad.

5. Retiring:EB-5 visa holders who become US citizens can receive Social Security benefits upon retirement. These benefits depend on the time the person worked in the US. However, the average amount is $1500-1800 per month.
The full retirement age is 66-67, but some retirees continue to work and receive both salary and a retirement benefit. .

6. No business experience or language skills required:Under EB-5 visa program’ the investor and their family members don’t need any qualifications. They are also not obliged to pass any English language tests.

Educational and Career Prospects

1. Access to Quality Education: One of the primary motivations for Turkisj families seeking the EB-5 visa is the access it provides to the U.S. education system. The United States is home to many of the world's top universities and educational institutions. Parents see the EB-5 visa as a gateway to providing their children with high-quality education and better career prospects.

2. Enhanced Career Opportunities: The U.S. job market is highly competitive and offers diverse career opportunities across various fields, including technology, finance, healthcare, and more. For young Türkiye professionals, obtaining permanent residency through the EB-5 visa opens doors to these opportunities, allowing them to build successful careers in their chosen fields.

3. Avoiding the H-1B Lottery: The H-1B visa, another popular route for Türkiye professionals, has become increasingly difficult to obtain due to the lottery system and annual caps. The EB-5 visa provides a more straightforward path to residency without the uncertainties associated with the H-1B visa process. This certainty is particularly appealing to those looking to establish long-term careers in the U.S.

Social and Lifestyle Benefits

1. Quality of Life: The U.S. offers a high standard of living, with access to excellent healthcare, infrastructure, and social services. For many Turkish families, the prospect of a better quality of life is a significant factor in their decision to pursue the EB-5 visa. The safety, cleanliness, and amenities available in many American cities are attractive to those seeking an improved lifestyle.

2. Family Reunification: The EB-5 visa allows the principal investor to bring their immediate family members, including spouses and unmarried children under 21, to the United States. This provision is crucial for Turkish families who value staying together and providing collective support. The ability to live, work, and study in the U.S. as a family unit is a compelling reason for choosing the EB-5 route.

3. Community and Cultural Integration: Türkiye communities are well-established in many parts of the United States, offering a sense of familiarity and support for new immigrants. These communities provide a cultural bridge, making it easier for Turkish families to adapt to their new environment while maintaining their cultural heritage. Social networks, cultural organizations, and religious institutions play a vital role in this integration process.

4. Visa-free access to the US and other countries: With a green Card, a person can enter the USA without any additional documents and at any time. In case of instability in your country of origin, it is especially advantageous.
Green Card also allows visa-free travel to Canada and some South American countries.
At the same time, US passport holders can enjoy visa-free travel to more than 180 countries, including Schengen countries, the UK, Canada, Japan and many other attractive destinations.

Political and Legal Stability

1. Political Uncertainty in Türkiye: Political instability and policy unpredictability in Türkiye can be concerning for investors. The U.S., by contrast, offers a more stable political environment, which is appealing to those looking for long-term security for their investments and families. The predictability of U.S. laws and policies provides peace of mind for Turkish investors.

2. Permanent Residency and Citizenship: The EB-5 visa leads to a green card, offering permanent residency in the U.S. After a certain period, green card holders can apply for U.S. citizenship. This pathway to citizenship is highly attractive as it ensures long-term stability and security. The ability to travel without restrictions and access to the rights and privileges of U.S. citizens is a significant draw for many Turkish families.

3. Legal Protections: Security and Peace of Mind-The United States offers robust legal protections for residents and investors. The rule of law is well-established, providing a secure environment for personal and business interests. This legal stability is a significant factor for Türkiye investors who may have concerns about the legal landscape in their home country.