The Golden Visa vs. EB-5 – What Investors & Developers Need to Know

A conversation between Cindy Gokay, Brown Harris Stevens & Marko Issever, America EB5 Visa

EB-5 vs. Golden Visa: Breaking Down the Basics

• How did EB-5 work before the Gold Card proposal?
• There’s been talk of the Golden Visa “replacing” EB-5. Is that accurate? Or are they fundamentally different programs?
• Who were the primary EB-5 investors in recent years? Which markets did they favor?
• Were there already signs of decline in EB-5 interest before the Golden Visa announcement?

What Makes the Golden Visa Different? 

• What impact will it have on investor interest as the investment requirement is significantly higher—$5M vs. EB-5’s ~$800K?
• Are there any key advantages the Golden Visa offers over EB-5? Or is it a tougher sell?
• Will this program attract a different type of investor? If so, what type?
• What are some of the logistical challenges investors might face when using this new visa for real estate investment?

The Impact on Developers & U.S. Real Estate

• Many developers relied on EB-5 for project funding. Without it, how might they shift their financing strategies?
• Will this new program drive more foreign investment into high-end real estate?
• With new restrictions on foreign investment in some markets (like China’s capital controls), could this visa reopen the door for Chinese, Middle Eastern, or Russian buyers? 
• How should developers prepare for this potential wave of new buyers?

Predictions & Final Thoughts

• Will the Golden Visa gain traction, or will it face challenges similar to EB-5?
• What’s one major takeaway investors & developers should keep in mind about these changes?
• Where can people go for more information about investing in the U.S. under this program?