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3 Popular Business Models for EB-5 Direct Investment

3 Popular Business Models for EB-5 Direct Investment

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers foreign investors an opportunity to obtain U.S. green cards by investing in existing or new commercial enterprises that create jobs for American workers. To meet the program's job creation requirement, investors often consider labor-intensive business models. In this blog, we will explore three common EB-5 direct investment business models: restaurants, hotels, and gas stations with convenience stores, all of which require a substantial workforce to thrive.

Restaurants: Serving Up Job Opportunities

Restaurants are a popular choice for EB-5 investors due to their labor-intensive nature. From chefs and waitstaff to kitchen and cleaning crews, restaurants require a diverse and sizable workforce. Here's how the EB-5 investment in a restaurant typically works:

Job Creation: A new restaurant can generate a significant number of jobs, from kitchen staff to servers, hosts, and managerial positions.

Management: EB-5 investors often take an active role in managing the restaurant or partner with experienced restaurateurs.

Challenges: The restaurant industry can be competitive and operationally demanding, requiring careful planning and management.

Hotels: Hospitality and Employment

Hotels are another labor-intensive choice for EB-5 investors. The hospitality industry relies heavily on guest services, maintenance, and administration, leading to substantial job creation. Key points to consider when investing in a hotel include:

Job Creation: Hotels employ a wide range of staff, including front desk personnel, housekeepers, maintenance workers, and management.

Management: Successful hotel investments often involve partnerships with experienced hotel management companies.

Market Demand: Location and market demand are crucial factors in the hotel industry's success.

Gas Stations with Convenience Stores: Fueling Job Growth

Gas stations with convenience stores are appealing EB-5 investment options. These businesses require attendants, cashiers, stock clerks, and managers to operate efficiently. Here's what to know about this business model:

Job Creation: Gas stations with convenience stores provide jobs for attendants, cashiers, and stock clerks, creating opportunities for local employment.

Management: Investors may choose to actively manage the business or partner with experienced operators.

Market Analysis: Location is a key determinant of success, as proximity to highways and residential areas can significantly impact traffic and sales.

EB-5 direct investments in labor-intensive business models like restaurants, hotels, and gas stations with convenience stores can be a rewarding pathway to U.S. immigration for foreign investors. These enterprises not only create jobs but also contribute to local economies and communities. However, it's essential for investors to conduct thorough market research, partner with experienced professionals when necessary, and carefully manage their investments to ensure success in meeting the program's job creation requirements. By doing so, EB-5 investors can enjoy the benefits of U.S. residency while contributing to the growth of these labor-intensive industries.

Visa Business Plans plays a pivotal role in assisting foreign investors pursuing EB-5 Direct investments by crafting comprehensive and tailored immigration business plans. These plans are meticulously designed to meet the specific requirements of the EB-5 program, including the creation of 10 full-time permanent positions. Visa Business Plans conducts in-depth market research, financial analysis, and feasibility assessments, ensuring that the proposed business model not only complies with EB-5 regulations but also has a robust strategy for job creation. By providing detailed and well-documented business plans, Visa Business Plans helps investors navigate the complexities of the EB-5 process, presenting a compelling case to immigration authorities and enhancing the likelihood of a successful visa application. With Visa Business Plans’ expertise, investors can confidently pursue their immigration goals while contributing to the growth of labor-intensive enterprises in the United States.


Visa Business Plans is led by Marco Scanu, a certified coach from the University of Miami with a globally-based practice coaching Fortune 1000 company executives, entrepreneurs, as well as professionals in four different continents. Mr. Scanu advises clients on turnaround strategies and crisis management.

Mr. Scanu received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Cum Laude) from the University of Florida and an MBA in Management from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. Mr. Scanu was also a Visiting Scholar at Michigan State University under the prestigious H. Humphrey Fellowship (Fulbright program) with a focus on Entrepreneurship, Venture Capital, and high-growth enterprises.

At present, Mr. Scanu is the managing partner and CEO at Visa Business Plans, a Miami-based boutique consulting firm providing attorneys and investors with business planning services in the areas of U.S. and Canadian immigration, SBA loans, and others.


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