Morocco Investors for EB-5 VisaMorocco investors for the EB-5 Visa are granted permanent residency in the United States through a new commercial investment and the development of jobs. Morocco EB-5 Visa investors must finance an American enterprise that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for residents of the United States in order to qualify. The EB5 Visa Program allows Moroccan investors who meet the program conditions to live, work, and study in the US permanently with their spouses and minor children.

Moroccan EB5 investors who live in the US are able to submit both their EB5 and permanent residency petitions at the same time for faster processing. Retrogression in the EB 5 Visa processing is not currently an issue for Moroccan investors, and it is not anticipated to be one in the future. Moroccan investors and their families are permitted to visit any US location as well as many other countries without a visa as US Permanent Residents. Children of Moroccan EB-5 investors are entitled to reduced tuition costs and educational support when studying in the United States.

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What is EB-5 Visa for Morocco Investors?

The EB-5 Visa for Morocco investors is a direct path toward getting a U.S. Green Card (Permanent Residence) through investment and job creation. The EB-5 Visa for Morocco investors requires investors to invest in a new commercial enterprise (NCE) that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for Americans. Moroccan investors, their spouses, and minor children obtain a 2-year initial Conditional Green Card (Permanent Residence) upon EB-5 Visa approval. Moroccan EB5 investors are able to live, work, and further their education in the US as Permanent Residents. 

What are the Benefits of EB-5 Visa for Moroccan Investors?

The following advantages are acquired by Moroccan investors, their spouses, and their minor children with an EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa.

  • Permanent relocation to the United States. The EB5 Visa Program enables wealthy Moroccan investors and their families to move permanently to the USA without any need for a sponsor. 
  • Economic ventures in the United States. Moroccan investors and entrepreneurs have the chance to expand their businesses and participate in the US’s secure and thriving global economy.
  • American education and employment. High-net-worth Moroccans are looking for ways to give their children access to better employment and educational opportunities in the United States. The advantages of an EB5 Green Card for dependent children under the age of 21 of Moroccan investors are listed below.
    • Study in some of the best institutions in the world without facing restrictions imposed on foreign students.
    • Pay 150% to 300% lower tuition fees as compared to foreign students.
    • Enjoy more funding and scholarship options as compared to foreign students.
    • Study as a day scholar and avoid long separation from family just to obtain a quality education.
    • Explore job opportunities without worrying about issues like work permits, sponsorship, processing delays, expiry of visa, or restrictions on job mobility. 
  • Moroccan investors enjoy greater international mobility through the visa-free travel privileges available to US Green Card holders.

What are the Risks of EB-5 Visa for Moroccan Investors?

Moroccan investors should take note of the risks associated with applying for an EB-5 Visa.

  • At-risk investment. Investors from Morocco are required to make an investment that is “at-risk”. There is no guarantee that Moroccan investors are going to reap substantial gains from their investments. Securing a Green Card is the main advantage of the EB5 Visa for Moroccan investors.
  • Immigration risk. Investment alone does not ensure a USA Green Card. The Moroccan investor must show that their investment was in a new commercial enterprise (NCE) in the US that resulted in the necessary 10 full-time positions during their Conditional Residency.
  • Risk for fraud. Moroccan investors should do thorough due diligence on potential EB-5 Projects before investing. EB-5 Morocco investors should work with knowledgeable professionals to properly assess an EB-5 Project, its developer, affiliated regional center, and the associated third-party entities in order to avoid fraud.
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How Long Does it Take to Process an EB 5 Visa for Morocco  Investors?

The processing for the initial EB-5 petition of Moroccan investors takes between 29.5 and 61 months on average. The first step in the EB-5 application process for Moroccan immigrant investors is to file Form I-526 (Immigration Petition by Standalone Investor).

How Long is an EB5 Visa Valid for Morocco Investors?

Morocco investors and their dependents with an approved EB5 Visa get an initial 2-year Conditional Permanent Residency in the US. The Morocco investor and their dependents are eligible to file a petition to remove the conditions on their Green Cards upon successfully meeting the requirements of the EB 5 Visa Program. Unconditional Lawful Permanent Residence (LPR) is valid for 10 years and renewable indefinitely.

What are the Requirements for an EB-5 Visa for Moroccan Investors?

The following criteria must be met by Moroccan investors in order to obtain an EB-5 Visa.

  • Investment amount. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires an “at risk” EB-5 investment to be any of the following. 
    • A minimum investment of $800,000 USD (DH 8.3 M Moroccan dirham) in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) project. A Targeted Employment Area (TEA) is a region with high unemployment rates or a rural area. 
    • An investment of $1.05 million USD (DH 10.9 M Moroccan dirham) for a non-TEA project. 
  • Source of funds. Moroccan investors can use any of the following as capital as long they are derived from lawful sources and obtained through lawful means.
    • Salaries/wages
    • Inheritance
    • Business profits
    • Loans from a financial institution or from an individual
    • Gifts from an individual
  • Job creation. The creation of at least 10 full-time jobs for US nationals is a requirement for an EB5 Visa for Moroccan investors.

The financial criteria for the EB-5 Visa for Moroccan investors are the following.

  • Net worth of $1,050,000 (DH 10.9 M Moroccan dirham) for an individual or married couple; or
  • Minimum of $200,000 (DH 2.07 M Moroccan dirham) in individual income in each of the 2 previous years; or
  • Minimum of $300,000 (DH 3.1 M Moroccan dirham) in joint income in each of the 2 previous years; and
  • Comparable level of future income and assets.

What is the Age Requirement for Morocco Investors to Get EB-5 Visa?

There’s no age limit for the EB-5 Visa. Any Morocco investor qualifies to be an EB-5 investor. However, since a minor probably does not have the assets or income to be eligible as an EB-5 investor on his/her own, the parents or some other guardian giving him/her the investment amount requires showing the necessary documents to prove the source of funds. Occasionally, a Moroccan investor pursuing an EB-5 Visa will be unable to get specific documentation. In such instances, the applicant should file a declaration giving an explanation as to why they are unable to supply the needed documentation.

The only time age matters is if the parent is applying and children are also part of the application as derivatives. The children must be under the age of 21 to be included in a parent’s application.

How Much Does an EB-5 Visa Cost for Morocco Investors?

These are the costs involved in an EB 5 Visa application for Morocco investors.

  • EB-5 investment
    • $800,000 USD (DH 8.3 M Moroccan dirham) for a TEA investment
    • $1,050,000 USD (DH 10.9 M Moroccan dirham) for a non-TEA investment
  • Form I-526- $3,675 USD (DH 38 K Moroccan dirham)
  • Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (Form I-485)- $1,140 USD (DH 11 K Moroccan dirham)
  • Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status (Form I-829)- $3,750 USD (DH 38.9 K Moroccan dirham)

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues 10,000 EB-5 Visas a year.

The Bank Al-Maghrib and the Moroccan Capital Markets Authority (AMMC) are the regulatory bodies that have the framework and monetary policy for moving assets and money outside of Morocco.

How can I Transfer EB-5 Funds from Morocco?

Morocco investors must show that they have invested or are in the process of investing the required minimum capital in an EB-5 Project. One way to show active EB-5 investment is to transfer the capital to the EB-5 Project’s escrow account. An EB5 Project escrow account is an interest-bearing bank account used to hold large sums of money until the EB 5 Project’s completion. The EB 5 escrow agreement must show that the Moroccan investor’s investment will be used entirely for the EB-5 Project. Both the Morocco investor and the EB-5 Project should show no relationship to the bank holding the escrow account. Morocco investors should also consult banks that focus on international transactions and use a licensed currency exchange company. Morocco investors with businesses outside the country can use their profits as EB-5 funds. 

What is the Priority Date for EB5 Visa for Moroccan Investors?

The EB-5 priority date is the day on which USCIS receives the I-526 from the Moroccan investor. The EB5 priority date shows where the Moroccan investor is in the queue for an immigrant visa under the EB5 Program. The final action dates for the EB5 Visa category are published monthly in the Visa Bulletin on the website of the U.S. Department of State (DOS). The priority date is regarded as “current” if the Moroccan investor’s I-526 priority date coincides with their final action date on the Visa Bulletin. There is no retrogression (backlog) for Moroccan applicants based on the EB5 Visa Bulletin for Moroccan Investors.

How Long Does it Take to Acquire an I-526 Approval for the Moroccan Investor under EB 5?

I-526 petitions submitted by Moroccan investors are approved between 29.5 and 61 months. Each I-526 petition is examined and processed by the USCIS. The specific processing period for an EB-5 petition will depend on the nature of the case and the USCIS service center handling the application.

How can a Moroccan Citizen Immigrate to the United States Using the EB-5 Program?

Morocco investors for the EB-5 Visa complete 6 steps to obtain a US Green Card.

  1. Petitioning for an EB-5 Visa. Filing of the I-526 petition with the USCIS.
  2. Applying for an EB5 Visa. USCIS must approve the I-526 form prior to applying for the EB5 Visa.
    1. Applying from overseas. Filing the Online Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application (Form DS-260) with the U.S. Department of State (DOS).
    2. Applying within the US. Filing for an adjustment of status using Form I-485 with USCIS. Morocco investors present in the USA holding valid nonimmigrant visas such as H-1B, F-1, and L-1 are eligible for concurrent filing of their I-526 and I-485 petitions.
  3. Issuing of EB-5 Visa. 
  4. Obtaining conditional permanent residence. A Conditional EB5 Green Card grants Moroccan investors and their dependents the same rights as Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) for 2 years.
  5. Removing conditions on permanent residence. The I-829 petition is submitted to USCIS within the 90-day period prior to the second anniversary as a Moroccan EB5 investor in the US.
  6. Gaining lawful permanent residence. An Unconditional Green Card is valid for 10 years and renewable unlimitedly. 

What is the EB-5 Visa Statistics for Morocco Investors?

There was 0 EB-5 Visa issued to Morocco investors in FY 2024 according to the Report of the Visa Office from the U.S. Department of State (DOS). 

What are the Challenges for Morocco Investors for EB-5?

The immigration and financial requirements of the EB 5 program pose certain challenges for Moroccan investors. Morocco investors must first prove that they have the money to invest in a new American company and pay the expenses associated with making an EB 5 Visa application. Only monies that have been legally transferred from lawful sources are acceptable as EB-5 Project funding. Investors in Morocco should be aware of the associated financial risks as with any investment. The EB5 Program cannot assure the Moroccan investor of high profits or full repayment. The main advantage of the EB-5 Visa for investors from Morocco and their families is Permanent Residency in the US. Due diligence is also necessary when picking the suitable EB-5 Project to invest in so that the Moroccan investor selects a project with the lowest immigration and investment risks. Moroccan investors should speak with a knowledgeable EB-5 Visa Attorney, an economist, a financial securities expert, and other EB-5 specialists to work through these challenges.

What is the Best Project to Invest in with an EB-5 Visa for Morocco  Investors?

EB5 Projects are US enterprises built using capital from immigrant investors. EB5 Projects contribute to the expansion and growth of the American economy by creating jobs. Real estate, restaurants, biotechnology, and hotel construction are the top EB-5 Projects for Moroccan investors. These types of projects generate many jobs which enable Moroccan EB5 investors to complete the requirements for EB5 Permanent Residency.

What Does the Future Hold for EB-5 Investors from Morocco?

Based on the country’s “current” EB-5 Visa Bulletin status, the EB-5 Program presents a promising future for investors from Morocco. The EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act (RIA) of 2022 makes it possible for Moroccan TEA investors to benefit from priority processing and visa set-asides. Moroccans who are already in the US are able to submit their applications more quickly through concurrent filing.

What are the Other US Visa Available for Morocco Nationals?

Foreign nationals who want to enter the US must have a U.S. Visa stamped on their passport. Moroccan nationals are required to obtain a US Visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate that is appropriate for the purpose of their visit. Immigrant Visas are issued to Moroccan nationals who meet the requirements to enter and remain in the United States as Permanent Residents. Moroccan nationals can travel to and stay in the US on a temporary basis using Nonimmigrant Visas.

The following are the US Visas available to Moroccan nationals.

 Immigrant Visas

  • Family-Based Immigration. For foreign citizens sponsored by an immediate relative who is a U.S. citizen or a U.S. Green Card holder and is at least 21 years old.
  • Fiancé(e) K-1 nonimmigrant visa. For a foreign fiancé(e) of a US citizen. The foreign fiancé(e) is allowed to stay in the U.S. to apply for permanent residency after marriage.
  • K-3 Visa. For the foreign spouse of a U.S. citizen traveling to reside in the U.S. while awaiting final completion of their immigration. The spouse’s children can enter the U.S. with a K-4 Visa.
  • Intercountry Adoption. For adopting children outside of the US.
  • Employment-Based Immigration. For qualified applicants under the provisions of US immigration law. The EB-5 Visa falls under the Employment Fifth Preference (E5). 

Nonimmigrant Visas

  • B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa. For people traveling to the US for business or pleasure, or for medical treatment. 
  • Temporary Worker/Employment or Trainees (H, L, O, P, Q, R). For temporary, nonimmigrant workers petitioned by US employers or agents.
  • Student Visa. For foreign citizens who wish to study in the US.
  • Exchange Visitor Visa. For foreign citizens participating in exchange programs.
  • Treaty Trader (E-1) and Investor (E-2) Visa. For citizens of countries with treaties of commerce and navigation with the US. Morocco is a treaty country of the USA.
  • Journalist and Media Visa. For representatives of the foreign media traveling to the US to engage in their profession while having their home office in a foreign country.
  • A Visas. For Moroccan government officials entering the U.S. for temporary or permanent assignment.
  • Transit/Ship Crew Visa. For foreign citizens traveling in immediate and continuous transit through the US en route to a foreign destination.

What is the Most Popular State in the United States for Morocco Investors to Migrate to?

The US states of New York, Florida, and Massachusetts have the highest number of Moroccan immigrants in America according to the Migration Policy Institute. 

What is the Current Retrogression Situation for Moroccan Investors?

There is no retrogression (backlog) for the EB-5 Visa for Morocco investors. Investors from Morocco have never faced any backlogs in the application process for EB-5 and are not expected to have any in the future.

What are the Issues Experienced by the Morocco Citizen with the EB-5 Visa?

The creation of the necessary number of employment and supplying the minimum investment amount for the EB 5 Project are two of the major issues for Moroccan investors applying for an EB5 Visa. The Moroccan investor’s business plan must demonstrate that the EB5 Project will generate at least 10 new full-time jobs in the US. The jobs must be created and sustained for at least 2 years, or until the Moroccan investor submits their I-829, There should be proof that the EB-5 investment was obtained legally and would only be used for the EB-5 Project. Investors from Morocco are required to provide documentation for their EB5 investment, including payslips, tax returns, bank account records, and confirmation of business ownership and registration.

What is a Targeted Employment Area?

A targeted employment area (TEA) is a region of the United States with a minimum EB 5 investment requirement of $800,000 (DH 8.3 M Moroccan dirham). A TEA Project is located in a special economic zone, such as a rural or high-unemployment area. In addition to having lower capital requirements, participating in a TEA Project has various advantages for Moroccan investors. According to the 2022 EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act (RIA), TEA investors enjoy priority processing for their petitions and issuance of reserved visas. The provision of reserved visas and priority processing helps Moroccan investors apply for EB5 Green Cards more quickly.

What Other Countries can Invest in the EB-5 Visa Program?

Between 2012 and 2022, the EB5 Immigrant Investor Visa helped almost 100,000 foreign investors become permanent residents of the United States according to “The United States EB-5 Program” by Investment Migration Insider. Over 80% of these EB5 investors come from China, Taiwan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and Taiwan.

Is USA a Good Foreign Market to Invest in for Morocco Citizens?

Yes, by investing in the United States, Moroccan investors have access to one of the largest consumer markets in the world, a solid legal system, favorable tax regulations, and a robust infrastructure. The EB-5 Visa is a reliable path to Permanent Residency in the US for Moroccan investors and their dependents.

Can EB-5 Visa Attorney Speed Up the Process of EB-5 Visa?

No, an EB-5 Visa Attorney is unable to speed up the EB-5 application process for Moroccan investors. The USCIS and the DOS are in charge of evaluating and processing EB 5 applications. Services of EB5 Visa Attorneys include minimizing application delays brought on by errors, organizing Moroccan investors’ documents for success, and ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration rules.

Is Obtaining an EB-5 Easy for Moroccan Investors?

Morocco investors are able to apply for their EB-5 Visas with less difficulty due to the “current” Visa Bulletin status and the absence of application backlogs for Morocco. Moroccan investors are not subject to increased wait times, unlike investors from nations with visa retrogression like China and India.

Can a Moroccan National Apply for EB 5 while on H1B?

Yes, Moroccan nationals with H-1B Visas are able to apply for an EB5 Visa. H1B Visa holders are foreign employees engaged by US employers in specialty occupations. Moroccan H1B employees in the US are allowed by the RIA to submit both their I-526 and I-485 forms concurrently for speedier processing without having to leave the US.

Can a Morocco Investor Borrow Money for EB-5 Visa?

Yes, loans can be used by Moroccan investors as EB-5 Visa investments. The personal property and collateral of the Moroccan Investor, not the EB 5 Project, must serve as security for the EB5 Loan to be accepted.

Can an International Student from Morocco with an F-1 Visa Apply for EB5 Visa?

Yes, a Moroccan student with an F-1 Visa qualifies as an EB-5 Visa candidate. An F1 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa that enables foreign students to study in the US in academic programs. A Moroccan student with a valid F1 status is eligible to file the I-526 and I-485 petitions simultaneously in order to speed up the EB 5 Visa application process while in the USA.

Can a Moroccan Citizen Invest in the United States?

Yes, a citizen from Morocco is able to invest in the United States through the EB5 Visa and the E-2 Visa. The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for nationals from treaty countries that are making a substantial investment in a US business. Treaty countries maintain a treaty of navigation and commerce with the US. Morocco is a treaty country and qualifies its nationals for the E-2 Visa.

The E2 Treaty Investor Visa is not a U.S. Permanent Residence program, unlike the EB-5 Visa. A substantial investment of at least $150,000 (DH 1.5 M Moroccan dirham) is required for an E2 Visa investment without the need for minimum job creation. 

Does a Moroccan Citizen Need a Visa for USA?

Moroccan citizens traveling to the US must first get a US Visa. Moroccan nationals looking to relocate to the US must obtain an immigrant visa while temporary Moroccan visitors must apply for a nonimmigrant visa.