A Forgotten Economic Tool for Real Estate and Job Growth: Rethinking the EB-5 Visa Program
Immigration remains a divisive issue in the U.S., with much of the conversation focused on border security and job competition. However, amidst this debate, we tend to overlook immigration programs that are specifically designed to benefit the U.S. economy and create jobs—programs like the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program.
As the founder of Global Property Systems (GPS), a global real estate company, I’ve had the unique experience of working on both outbound and inbound real estate deals. While helping clients invest abroad plays a significant part in my business, inbound foreign investments—like those made possible by the EB-5 program—are equally important to my U.S. operations. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how foreign capital can stimulate local economies, particularly in the real estate sector. The potential for EB-5 to fund meaningful projects, like affordable housing developments and infrastructure improvements, is what first drew me to the program.
EB-5: Untapped Potential for Economic Growth
The EB-5 program was designed to offer foreign investors a path to U.S. residency in exchange for significant financial investments in projects that create jobs. Typically, these funds are channeled into large-scale urban developments—luxury hotels, office towers, and shopping centers. But as I’ve watched local economies struggle, especially in underserved areas, it’s clear that we’re missing a major opportunity. If directed into more community-centered projects—affordable housing, healthcare, and infrastructure—EB-5 investments could address some of our most pressing challenges.
My work in real estate, both globally and domestically, has shown me that there’s a way to align foreign capital with local economic needs. For example, I’ve seen how EB-5 projects in Florida and Vermont helped create jobs and improve local infrastructure. There’s no reason why this same model can’t be replicated across the country to help areas in need of economic revitalization.
Why Inbound Investment Matters
In my role as CEO of a global real estate firm, I’ve come to realize that inbound investments—from programs like EB-5—are just as critical as outbound transactions. The EB-5 program specifically benefits American communities by requiring job creation as a fundamental condition of each investment. It’s a win-win: foreign investors gain U.S. residency, and local economies receive much-needed job growth and financial capital.
But even beyond job creation, these investments offer the chance to improve the infrastructure of underserved communities. Housing shortages, decaying public infrastructure, and underfunded healthcare facilities could all be supported by redirecting EB-5 funds into these critical areas.
A Bipartisan Solution Being Overlooked
Both Republicans and Democrats have overlooked the true potential of EB-5 to address key issues facing the U.S. today:
– Republicans, who often advocate for economic growth and private investment, should see EB-5 as an ideal vehicle for driving foreign capital into job-creating projects.
– Democrats, who focus on community development and infrastructure, could harness the power of EB-5 to fund projects in Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs)—rural or economically distressed regions in desperate need of investment.
The EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 introduced necessary oversight and transparency, making the program even more attractive as a secure and effective means of investment. The potential to transform communities through this underutilized tool is enormous, but it requires real political and industry leadership to make it happen.
Why We Shouldn’t Ignore This Potential
The U.S. faces significant challenges in terms of housing, job creation, and infrastructure. EB-5 is one solution that offers both capital and job growth in ways that traditional funding sources cannot. By leveraging this underutilized program, we can address affordable housing shortages, build new public facilities, and strengthen our economy.
Real estate developers, policymakers, and community leaders need to recognize the untapped power of EB-5. It’s time to rethink how we utilize this tool to meet the needs of American communities, ensuring that foreign investments benefit those who need it most.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vanessa L. Saunders, MBA MIMC Founder, CEO, and Principal Broker of Global Property Systems
Vanessa is recognized internationally for her expertise in blockchain, frequently teaching and presenting on its use in real estate. This October, Vanessa is speaking at the 2d Annual MLS International Forum in Milan, Italy. https://mlsforum.org/
For more information or to connect with Vanessa, visit Global Property Systems
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