Category: Immigration

The Biden Administration has brought forth significant changes to US immigration policies, departing from the restrictive stance of the previous administration. According to CNN News, over 45 million legal immigrants reside in the United States, the majority of whom are citizens. The administration has introduced important changes and opportunities for foreign investors seeking to obtain permanent residency through the US Green Card by Investment and US Investor Visa programs. The key impacts of the Biden Administration’s approach to immigration include the reversal of certain policies, the introduction of new initiatives, and the broader implications for immigrants, asylum-seekers, and the US immigration system as a whole.

Reversal of Restrictive Policies

Several severe, restrictive immigration laws established by the previous government have been overturned by the Biden government. The main goals of these adjustments were to restore humanitarian values, promote inclusivity, and provide aid to those suffering as a result of the previous administration’s actions. Among the notable adjustments were cancelling the “Remain in Mexico” policy, easing travel restrictions on countries with sizable Muslim populations, reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy, and reinstatement of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Additionally, the Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals programs give almost 1 million undocumented immigrants temporary authorization to reside and work in the United States.

Source: CQPress

The graphical representation above shows that the majority approves Biden’s Immigration Policies based on data collected between January 28^th to February 1^st  2021. 54% of the sample population are in favour of halting the construction of the US wall along the U.S.- Mexican border, 83% of the sample population are in favour of citizenship for undocumented immigrants brought to the US as children and 57% of the sample population are supporting reversing Trumps’s travel ban on people from predominantly Muslim countries.

New Initiatives and Reforms

To address many facets of the immigration system, the Biden Administration has also unveiled new projects and suggested improvements. This includes the U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021, a comprehensive immigration reform bill that aims to give undocumented immigrants pathways to citizenship, strengthen border security, and give family reunion priority. Executive orders have also been issued to create task groups that are dedicated to reuniting split-up families and tackling the underlying reasons for migration from Central American countries. The limit on refugees has been raised by Biden to 125,000 for the fiscal year 2022, which began on October 1, 2021.

US Green Card by Investment Program

The US Green Card by Investment Programme, also known as the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Programme, provides a mechanism for foreign investors who invest significant amounts in a qualifying US venture to get permanent residency. This program continues to give people the chance to invest in businesses that generate jobs, boost local economies, and get a Green Card for themselves and their families under the Biden Administration. The application procedure is now more streamlined for candidates due to the efficiency and openness of the program, which was brought about by the administration’s dedication to job creation and economic growth. By offering citizenship to 1 million foreign immigrants in 2022, the US has created a new history for the third time. In FY 2022, 1,023,200 immigrants who had dependent children and parents who had obtained US citizenship were naturalized.

The USCIS has processed 275,111 immigrant green card requests relating to work, in addition to the State Department’s petitions for overseas visas.

US Investor Visa Program

Citizens of treaty countries have a doorway to invest and operate a business in the United States owing to the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa, also known as the US Investor Visa Programme. The E-2 visa offers foreign investors the ability to live and work in the US on a renewable basis, but it does not give a straight path to permanent residency like the Green Card program. The Biden Administration’s focus on promoting entrepreneurship and innovation has created a favourable environment for investors seeking to establish or expand their business ventures in the United States. Through the U.S. diversity visa program, often known as the visa lottery, roughly 50,000 individuals earn green cards each year. The yearly number of diversity visas would be increased to 80,000 under legislation proposed by the Biden administration.

Enhances immigration enforcement and border security

The administration’s top priorities are still strengthening border security and providing safe, legal migratory routes. The almost $25 billion budgeted amount for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is an increase of nearly $800 million from the level approved for 2023 when border management expenditures are taken into consideration.  The budget allocates money for CBP to hire 350 more Border Patrol agents, $535 million for border security technology at and between ports of entry, $40 million to fight fentanyl trafficking and dismantle international criminal groups, and money for CBP and ICE to hire 460 more processing assistants. The financing would enable ORR to strengthen and build upon the programmatic enhancements this administration made to the unaccompanied minors program and would assist in the resettlement of up to 125,000 refugees in Fiscal Year 2024.

Challenges and Considerations

While the Biden Administration has brought positive changes, it is important to note that challenges and considerations remain. These include the potential for increased scrutiny in the adjudication process, stricter enforcement of program requirements, and ongoing legislative developments that may impact the eligibility criteria and investment thresholds. The winds of change brought by the Biden Administration have swept through US immigration policies, breathing new life into the US Green Card by Investment and Investor Visa programs. Prospective investors must stay vigilant, adapt to evolving legislative developments, and seek the guidance of experts to navigate the intricacies of the application process. By staying informed and harnessing the opportunities presented by the Biden Administration’s immigration policies, investors can shape their futures and contribute to the economic fabric of the United States.

 Source: Boundless.com

The Biden Immigration policy tracker shows the number of new policies brought by the Biden Administration, the number of Trump policies the Biden administration revoked and the policies which are still ongoing, blocked or never finalized.

Implications and Future Outlook

The impact of the Biden Administration’s immigration policies extends beyond immediate policy changes. The US announced an increase in humanitarian aid to Mexico and Central America of about $23 million. The shift in approach displays a more profound dedication to human rights, inclusivity, and a compassionate immigration system. The policies of the Biden Administration address structural problems and would also affect the social and economic aspects of the nation, therefore impacting millions of immigrants’ lives. The bill would allow roughly 7 million undocumented immigrants to seek work permits, driver’s licenses, and protection from deportation. The Build Back Better Act, which would make several immigration reforms possible, is being pushed for passage.

The government, with its strong commitment to diversity, has ushered in an era of openness, effectiveness, and accessibility. The comprehensive bill would revamp the country’s current family-based immigration system, change the requirements for employment-based visas, and boost the number of diversity visas. It would also offer an eight-year road to citizenship for the estimated 10.5 million undocumented residents of the country. As a result of the Biden-Harris Administration’s plans to accept up to 20,000 refugees from Latin America and Caribbean nations in Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024, the United States is on track to more than triple the number of refugees admitted from the Western Hemisphere in only this Fiscal Year. By reversing restrictive measures, introducing reforms, and emphasizing a more welcoming approach, the administration has opened doors for many opportunities in the United States. 

Conclusion

The US immigration laws have seen considerable changes under the Biden Administration, which has placed a strong emphasis on inclusivity, undone restrictive provisions, and proposed extensive revisions. These policy changes represent a dedication to a kinder and more welcoming approach, helping to shape the future of immigration in the US. Increased efficiency and reduced processing times have eased the path for aspiring investors, while enhanced communication channels have fostered better engagement with applicants. Given the administration’s commitment to comprehensive immigration reform, there is a good probability that these programs will be enhanced and expanded in the future. This promotes a climate that is advantageous for business investment and economic growth. Although the long-term effects of these regulations have not yet been completely realized, the immediate effect is encouraging.

If you still have any queries, connect with our team, and we will be more than happy to assist.

The Citizenship by Investment Program provides a pathway for people and families to acquire second citizenship through investment and is one of the most sought-after ways. Although these programs have alluring benefits, it is important to weigh the benefits and any potential downsides before choosing one. Let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of citizenship by investment programs and provide a thorough analysis to aid in your decision-making.

Source: Citizenship By Investment

Based on the Henley Passport Index, which ranks countries based on the number of visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations for their passport holders, we can see that Malta, Cyprus, Grenada, Antigua & Barbuda, St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, St Lucia have relatively high points for their travel convenience as most of these countries provide their citizens visa-on-arrival or visa-free access to a large number of different foreign countries.

Pros of Citizenship by Investment Programs

1. Global Mobility and Visa-Free Travel 

One of the most significant advantages of CIPs is the enhanced global mobility they offer. Successful applicants gain the freedom to travel visa-free or with visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries. People who frequently travel for professional, leisure, or personal reasons will find this to be especially useful. One’s professional and personal lives can be substantially enhanced by the ease of hassle-free foreign travel. For instance, visa-free access to different countries through the Malta Citizenship by Investment Program is available to more than 182 countries; Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment offers access to 160 countries; and St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment offers access to 157 countries.

2. Access to a New Market and Business Opportunities 

Investing in a foreign country through a CIP provides a gateway to new markets and business opportunities. It allows investors to tap into emerging industries, expand their business networks, and explore untapped potential. This can be especially beneficial for entrepreneurs and investors seeking growth and diversification.

3. Wealth Preservation and Tax Optimization 

Some CIPs offer favourable tax regimes that can provide significant tax benefits and opportunities for wealth preservation. By obtaining citizenship in a country with advantageous tax policies, investors can optimize their tax liabilities and protect their assets. Malta Citizenship by Investment Program, Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program, and St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program are among the most sought-after programs for their favourable tax regulations.

4. Lifestyle Upgrade 

Citizenship through investment often opens doors to a better quality of life by offering access to quality education, healthcare, and social benefits. It allows investors and their families to experience life with access to amenities and services that may not be available in their home country. It is statistically proven that most citizens of countries like Malta, Antigua & Barbuda, and St. Kitts and Nevis have a better quality of life, which can be obtained through the Malta Citizenship by Investment Program, Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment, and St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment, respectively.

5. Secure Future and Citizenship for Generations 

Obtaining second citizenship through a CIP can provide long-term security for investors and their families. It ensures that future generations have access to the advantages, opportunities, and stability offered by citizenship. This can be especially valuable for families seeking a secure future and a Plan B in an increasingly uncertain world.

Cons of Citizenship by Investment Programs

1. High Financial Requirements 

The investment amounts required for citizenship would range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars based on the program and country of the applicant, which could substantially pose a barrier to entry for investors with constraints in their financial resources. The EU countries are more expensive compared to Caribbean countries, where prices start at $100K. There would also be additional fees of around 30–40%, which applicants are not aware of.

Source:  Vivid Maps

2. Substantial Evidence as proof of previous expertise

There are several countries that require investors to have previous experience in successful entrepreneurial projects or commercial ventures. Moreover, some countries would also focus on the investor actively having a role in the company they set up in the new country. Some applications would require the source of investment funds.

3. Economic Impact

A person’s current citizenship may need to be renounced in order to get citizenship by investment, which could result in the loss of social, economic, cultural, and political ties to the nation of origin. These programs can also have a big impact on the economy of the host nation by luring in foreign investment, which can have both beneficial effects like increased economic growth, the creation of jobs, and infrastructure development, as well as negative effects like wealth inequality and economic reliance.

4. Long Application Processes 

The application process for CIPs can be lengthy and complex, involving extensive documentation, background checks, and interviews. It requires patience, attention to detail, and the ability to navigate bureaucratic procedures.

5. Cultural and Social Adaptation

Moving to a new country and obtaining citizenship through investment often entails cultural and social adaptation. It could entail picking up a new language, becoming familiar with regional traditions, and integrating into a new community. For people with strong emotional bonds to their home country, it could become an obstacle.

Global mobility, economic prospects, tax advantages, and a higher standard of living are just a few perks that citizenship by investment programs has to offer. However, it is crucial to take into account any potential disadvantages, such as significant financial requirements, moral dilemmas, rigorous procedures, and cultural adaptability. Before starting the journey, people should carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks, do extensive research, and seek professional advice to ensure a well-informed choice in line with their financial and personal objectives.

If you still have any queries, connect with our team, and we will be more than happy to assist.

The United States of America is an exceptionally great destination for people who would like to live, work, or invest in a steady and thriving economy. Citizenship by investment is a feasible alternative for people seeking to attain enduring residency and ultimately citizenship in the US. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of getting citizenship by investing in the USA.

Access to a stable and thriving economy

The US economy is a key attraction for people seeking citizenship by investment. As the biggest economy in the world, with a GDP of over $20 trillion, it provides steady and thriving surroundings for investors. Citizenship by investment offers a person the opportunity to procure entry into this economy, which provides a great number of investment opportunities.

The US is home to numerous of the world’s leading companies, which offers an original opportunity for people to invest in these firms and possibly accomplish essential returns on their investments. This is why the US is considered to be among the most appealing destinations for trade and investment, and citizenship by investment offers a gateway to these opportunities.

The graph makes it evident that US GDP has remained robust throughout the majority of the years, demonstrating its stability and potential for investment and supporting the argument that it is an attractive investment location.

Increased Travel Opportunities

US citizenship by investment provides various advantages associated with wandering. Firstly, it grants people the right to wander to and from the nation without restrictions. This is mainly useful for those who frequently wander for commerce or leisure, as they can access and exit the nation with ease. Furthermore, US citizens can access numerous countries without a visa or with a visa-on-arrival, which makes wandering more accessible and less lengthy.

This profit can save people a lot of time and money, mainly when travelling frequently. Overall, US citizenship by investment offers people the independence and ease to wander without restrictions, creating an appealing alternative for those who value mobility.

Access to World-Class Healthcare and education

Citizenship by investment in the USA offers entry to world-class health services and educational institutions, making it a particularly appealing choice for families. The US is home to several of the world’s leading health service providers and educational institutions, guaranteeing that people who access citizenship by investment have access to the highest excellence in medical care and instruction.

Number of foreign students enrolled at American universities in 2021/22, broken down by place of origin

Source – https://www.statista.com/statistics/233880/international-students-in-the-us-by-country-of-origin/

This is especially important for families with young children who wish to ensure that their children receive the best training and medical care possible. People who acquire citizenship through investment in the USA may give their families the resources and chances they need to succeed by giving them access to elite educational institutions and healthcare facilities.

No residency requirements

Different familiar methods of getting citizenship, such as citizenship by investment, do not require people to reside in the state for a definite period before fitting in. This means that people can continue to dwell and labour in their household state while they implement citizenship.

No language or education requirements

An extra benefit of getting citizenship by investment in the USA is that there are no communication or instruction provisions. This means that people don’t have to pass communication or instruction tests to inherit citizenship. However, it is necessary to emphasize that people who are not fluent in the English language may encounter obstacles in communicating with other people and discovering employment.

So, US citizenship by investment provides numerous benefits to people seeking enduring residency and citizenship in the state. With expedited processing times, entry to a steady and thriving economy, enhanced wandering opportunities, entry to world-class health services and education, no residency or communication requirements, and no instruction requirements, it’s no wonder that ever more people are selecting this route to access US citizenship.

If you still have any queries, connect with our team, and we will be more than happy to assist.

There are many pathways to acquiring the authorization to reside and work in a foreign country. Still, two of the most excellent standard methods are permanent residency and citizenship by investment. But since both feature suggestions have their own advantages, it is of vital importance to grasp the distinctions between them for the purpose of making a knowledgeable decision. Here, we’ll contemplate the advantages of residency by investment and citizenship by investment and guide you in determining which option is best for your circumstances.

What is Citizenship by Investment?

Citizenship by investment is a procedure that lets High Net worth individuals access citizenship in a foreign state by investing a considerable quantity of money in that country’s economy. The investment can take diverse forms, for example, buying genuine estate, investing in a business, or purchasing government bonds.

This program is given by diverse countries around the world, comprising the United States, Canada, and abundant Caribbean nations. Citizenship by investment provides people with citizenship rights and privileges, consisting of the right to vote, win government jobs, and access social services. It also frequently provides visa-free travel to a plethora of countries around the world.

Key benefits of Citizenship by Investment:

Citizenship Rights: 

Citizenship by investment grants you the same rights and privileges as natural-born citizens, including the right to vote and grasp government jobs. This is a major benefit for people who want to be fully integrated into the society of their new state.

Visa-Free Travel: 

Citizenship by investment can additionally provide visa-free travel to numerous countries in the world. This might be useful for people who like to travel frequently for trade or pleasure.

Tax Benefits: 

Citizenship by investment programs repeatedly provides essential tax benefits, for example, lower revenue tax rates or exemptions from certain taxes. This could be a main benefit for high-net-worth individuals who wish to pay down their tax liabilities.

Investment Opportunities: 

Citizenship by Investment programs can additionally provide opportunities for individuals to invest in new trade ventures or genuine estate projects, that can provide a major revert on investment.

Dual Citizenship: 

In more important cases, citizenship by investment does not require people to give up their unique citizenship, that is to say, they can sustain their ties to their household nation while relishing the advantages of their new citizenship.

What is Permanent Residency?

Permanent residency is a legal status that lets foreign nationals live and work in a nation indefinitely. In more important cases, permanent residents have the right to numerous similar rights and privileges as citizens, including access to healthcare, education, and social services. However, they may not be capable of voting or grasping definite authority positions. Residency by investment could be obtained in a variety of ways, for example, through employment, family sponsorship, or refugee status.

Benefits of Permanent Residency:

Unlimited Stay: 

Permanent residency lets foreign nationals remain in a state indefinitely, as long as they meet definite ailments, for example, following their residency status or not committing any grave crimes.

Employment and Education: 

Permanent residency additionally grants the right to labor. This might be a major benefit for individuals to pursue a profession or educational opportunities in another nation.

Social Services: 

Permanent residents have the right to numerous similar social services offered to citizens. This might be helpful for families with children, who may need access to schools and medical facilities.

No Time Restrictions: 

Residency by investment typically does not have any duration restrictions, that is to say, individuals can remain in the nation as long as they like, given they meet the conditions of their residency status.

No Need to Renounce Original Citizenship:

In more important cases, permanent residents are not required to abandon their unique citizenship, that is to say, they can sustain their ties to their household state while relishing the advantages of existing and working in a new state.

Which is best for you?

Determining in-case Permanent residency or citizenship by investment is the optimum choice for a person depending on their original needs, goals, and circumstances. For those who wish to confirm extended stability in one more country, residency by investment may be the better choice. Permanent residency provides the aptitude to reside and labor in a foreign nation indefinitely, without the need for continued investment or renewals. It additionally offers access to the social services they provide and the independence to keep up ties with one’s household nation.

However, for people seeking complete citizenship rights and privileges, consisting of the right to vote, grasp authority jobs, and visa-free travel to other countries, citizenship by investment may be the more necessary option. 

Ultimately, the decision between permanent residency and citizenship by investment will depend on an individual’s particular circumstances, for example, their investment capacity, desired level of involvement in the foreign country’s economy and politics, and personalized priorities. It is crucial to weigh the advantages and drawbacks of each alternative cautiously in advance of making a decision. Meeting with a capable migration lawyer or advisor can additionally provide indispensable insights and advice in creating the right option.

Immigration by investment is a process by which a person can obtain citizenship in a foreign country by investing a certain amount of money in that country. This can have a number of benefits for families, including facilitating study abroad plans for their children.

Here are some ways in which immigration by investment can help your child’s study abroad plan:

Visa-Free Travel

One of the biggest advantages of obtaining citizenship in another country through investment is visa-free travel. This means that your child will be able to travel to many different countries without having to go through the often complicated and time-consuming process of obtaining a visa. For example, citizens of countries such as Malta and Cyprus, which offer citizenship by investment programs, have visa-free access to more than 160 countries, including the United States and the European Union. This can make it much easier for your child to study abroad, as they will not have to worry about the hassle and expense of obtaining visas for each country they want to visit.

Access to better education

Another advantage of obtaining citizenship in another country through investment is that it can provide access to better education opportunities. Many countries with citizenship by investment programs have high-quality education systems that are ranked among the best in the world. For example, the education system in Malta is ranked 16th in the world, while Cyprus is ranked 44th. By obtaining citizenship in one of these countries, your child may be able to attend some of the top schools and universities in the world, which can be a huge advantage when it comes to their future career prospects.

Lower tuition fees

In addition to access to better education, obtaining citizenship in another country through investment can also lead to lower tuition fees for your child. Many countries with citizenship by investment programs offer reduced tuition fees for citizens, which can make studying abroad much more affordable. For example, in Cyprus, citizens pay just €3,420 per year to attend university, compared to €9,000 per year for international students. This can be a significant saving over the course of a degree program and can make studying abroad a much more viable option for many families.

Increased job opportunities

Finally, obtaining citizenship in another country through investment can lead to increased job opportunities for your child. Many countries with citizenship by investment programs have strong economies and are home to a number of multinational companies. By obtaining citizenship in one of these countries, your child may be able to take advantage of these job opportunities and build a successful career. For example, Malta has a booming financial services industry, while Cyprus is home to a number of international shipping companies.

In conclusion, obtaining citizenship in another country through investment can provide a number of benefits for families, including facilitating study abroad plans for their children. By providing visa-free travel, access to better education, lower tuition fees, and increased job opportunities, citizenship by investment can help your child achieve their dreams and build a successful future.

At My Global Citizenship, we strive to help Indian families to achieve their citizenship goals of settling abroad and building their future overseas. Contact us today to learn more.

My Global Citizenship is a leading consulting firm that specializes in helping individuals and families navigate the complex world of second citizenships and residencies. We offer a truly global perspective and extensive knowledge of the citizenship and residency by investment programs available. Through our comprehensive services, we guide our clients through the entire process of obtaining a second citizenship or residency, from initial consultation and program selection to application processing and final approval. Our team of expert consultants provides personalized assistance and support at every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.