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Yearly Archives: 2022

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3 Investment Criteria to Obtain Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
December 15, 2022
December 15, 2022

3 Investment Criteria to Obtain Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship

Author By Ajmera Law Group Categories Antigua and Barbuda, Antigua and Barbuda citizenship

Making investments in foreign countries can bring abundant benefits for investors. In the last few years, the global market has become more open and flexible for immigrants and investors.

Antigua and Barbuda are tropical islands and a country in North America at the heart of the Caribbean. The country welcomes thousands of immigrants every year who want to spend their lives on these beautiful islands.

Furthermore, the local regime commended the citizenship investment program in 2013 for foreign investors to attract foreign investment. Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship by investment program helps the country in economic development. It enhances their infrastructure and entices business innovations on their land.

In return for the investment, foreigners enjoy these incredible islands’ citizenship and abundant benefits. We have an expert immigration lawyer in India who can provide you with assistance to obtain Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment.

Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program by investment offer 3 options to invest in their country.

1.Donations

Contribution to the government funds is the direct and most straightforward investment option for foreign Investors in Antigua and Barbuda. It is also known as National Development Fund. By doing so, they can obtain citizenship.

The minimum capital requirement under NDF is US$100,000 for a single applicant. However, they can add up family members like spouses, children, parents, and other principal applicants through an additional investment of US$125,000. Apart from this application, investors will have to pay US$30,000 processing fees.

2. Real estate

Real estate is growing exponentially worldwide, especially in places like islands. Island is an excellent attraction for tourism around the world. Keeping this in mind, Antigua and Barbuda’s local regime allows investors to buy real estate properties under the investment program.

As per Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment requirement, investors will have to invest as minimum as US$200,000 in government-approved real estate property. Apart from this, the applicant will have to pay US$50,000 as processing fees and the same for the spouse.

If the principal applicant wants to include dependents under 18 years, they will require a US$25,000 investment. They will also have to invest US$30,000 for dependents above 18 years.

Furthermore, two applicants can make investments in the same real estate property. However, each will have to invest US$200,000. Apart from this, they will have to pay processing fees and due diligence fees.

Here note that an investor must hold real estate property for 5 years after buying real estate property. They cannot sell it to obtain citizenship. Although, the Investor is free to replace the property with the pro-rata amounted property.

3. Venture capital fund or business investment

As Antigua and Barbuda are located in the rich Caribbean, it is gradually attracting businesses, especially around port areas. Under the investment program, two or more applicants can apply for citizenship. There are two ways for business investment to pursue citizenship.

  • A single applicant can invest a minimum of US$1,500,000 in a government-approved business, enterprise, or others.
  • Two people can make collaboration on a single application with at least a US$5,000,000 investment. However, each one must have to invest a minimum of US$400,000.

The main applicant will have to pay due diligence fees, passport fees, and other government charges to obtain citizenship. For the applicant and spouse, the fees will be US$7,500. For children, the fees vary from US$2,000 to US$4,000. Also, the applicant can include parents above 55 years by paying US$4,000.

Additional requirements for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program

  • Applicant should not have any criminal records
  • Age of the applicant must be above 18 years
  • Dependants in the application only cover

Wrapping up

As Antigua and Barbuda are tropical islands located in a prolific area, foreign investment can get enormous profit in the return of their property or business investment. Also, their investment can bring additional benefits like tax-free property. On top of all this, they can cherish their lives with family in beautiful landscapes. If you plan to invest in these beautiful islands, reach out to our immigration attorney in India. We will make your journey to the islands smooth and hassle-free.

Once you are citizen of Antigua & Barbuda you can travel up to 151 countries visa free including Schengen European countries and live in UK on visitor visa up to six months.

5 Ways to Obtain UAE Residency Through employment and Investment
November 16, 2022
November 16, 2022

5 Ways to Obtain UAE Residency Through Employment and Investment

Author By Ajmera Law Group Categories Dubai Golden Visa, UAE, UAE business visa, UAE golden visa

UAE is the eye of attraction in the heart of the middle east. UAE is one of the fastest-growing economic countries in the world. Another factor that makes it unique is UAE’s city development, attracting immense tourism and immigrants from other countries. However, UAE doesn’t provide citizenship to everyone who comes into their country.

Although the UAE government grants neutralization to qualified investors and talents, there are specific categories and bars for foreign investors that help them get UAE citizenship.

Like other countries, UAE is running a residency program for foreign investors called the UAE Golden Visa program. It was launched in 2021. The program allows investors and unique talents to stay, work or study in the UAE.

Apart from investors, the UAE Golden Visa program also applies to others, such as scientists, professionals, entrepreneurs, and others.

As a reputed UAE Golden Visa Consultant in India, we have outlined 5 ways for investors to help them in obtaining UAE residency.  We are also authorized service provider for one of the UAE emirates, Ras Al-Khaimah government owned and operated RAKEZ free trade zone.

1. Employment visa

This is the easiest method to get residency in Dubai. You will require an offer letter from an already existing and well-established company in UAE to get an employment visa. After assessing your profile, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) will issue your work permit to the employer. However, your residence in UAE will be based on contractual employment.

The first and most important thing you will require is for the company to hire you in UAE. Also, your previous work experience should match the job offered to you.

2. Golden visa for 10 years

Investors who wish to invest in public property can apply for this category to get UAE Residency by Investment. This category requires a minimum investment of AED 10 million. Investors can choose to invest in the local investment fund, real estate or start their own business with the given threshold. Apart from this, they can make investments of AED 10 million in an already existing company or business by acquiring shares.

For investing, investors will have to undergo a verification process to prove their source of funds. The UAE regime does not allow Investment through loans or borrowing money from other financial institutions. Also, the Investment held in the country should be committed for at least three years with financial competence of up to AED10 million.

Along with the investor, their family and children can apply for residency.

3. Golden visa for 5 years

The UAE government also runs 5 years extended golden visa program for investors, entrepreneurs, or business personnel. The minimum capital requirement is AED 5 million. Under the Golden visa program for 5 years extension, the Investment of minimum threshold must be held for 3 years in the UAE. Also, the capital should not be generated from financial bits of help like loans or borrowing to get a Dubai business visa by Investment or any other location in the UAE.

4. Startup or business expansion

After observing the great potential of startups and innovative businesses, the UAE regime made amendments to create flexible requirements for entrepreneurs and businesses.

The first major requirement for the startup is it must be registered in the UAE under the SMEs (small-to-medium enterprises) category. Also, the startup should be capable of generating revenue of at least AED 1 million annually.

To run startups in the UAE, entrepreneurs must have approval from the Ministry of Economy.

5. Self-employed

Digitalization has completely changed the world, and working methods have changed with time. People can now earn their bread and butter through self-employment or freelancing. UAE also provides visas to this self-employed workforce, called Freelance Visa Dubai. Furthermore, its government also grants green visas to freelancers and high-skilled workers, a 5-year self-sponsored residence permit.

Conclusion

UAE’s economy and progress are skyrocketing. Also, having a place in the Middle East provides investors access to Asian countries. After the inception of the UAE golden visa program, many Investors from India and other countries started applying for it. The country also runs the UAE business visa investment program to attract Investment from every corner of the world.

8 Different Options to Invest in Portugal for a Golden Visa
November 15, 2022
November 15, 2022

8 Different Options to Invest in Portugal for a Golden Visa and Expand Your Business in Europe

Author By Ajmera Law Group Categories Portugal, Portugal Golden Visa, Portugal Investor Visa

With open and unbiased policies, any country can attract people from other countries, especially when the host country is embarking on new milestones and progressing rapidly. Portugal tops the list of countries where the standard of living is high; hence, the government is attracting large amounts of investment from across the globe.

The reason for Portugal’s economic growth is its soft policy for foreign investors as well as the security and benefits it offers. Recently, the Portuguese regime introduced the golden visa program for non-EU investors that grants them residence permits for as minimum as five years in return for their investment.

Most sectors of Portugal see new heights through modernization and digitalization. However, as a reputable Portugal investor visa consultant in India, we outlined eight investment options for you to win a golden visa and, obviously, return too.

#1 Direct Investment in the company or business

If you were born with a business mind, you already know what business can bring back. Immersive opportunities are present in Portugal to expand the company as it is one of the European countries. It means business investment can directly give easy access to 26 Schengen countries.

Under the golden visa investment policy, you must invest more than €1 million in any company or business. Also, this business should be capable of generating employment for at least ten people.

#2 Government bonds and securities

In the last few decades, the economic growth of Portugal has increased. Government bonds and securities are another best way to invest in officially issued debt obligations. You can earn a yield on a specific interval in return for these bonds and securities.

It requires as minimum as €1 million investment in government securities and bonds.

#3 Investment funds or venture capital fund

Investment and venture capital funds are very famous options to capitalize on growing startups, businesses, or companies. Apart from its long-term profits, you can acquire a certain percentage of equity of the particular company. Your capital invested in the right business in Portugal has outstanding potential to bring you enormous profit back.

According to Portugal golden visa Investment, you must invest above €350,000 in a business funding round.

#4 Research activities

Portuguese have been involved in astronomical, marine, medical, technological, and other research for a long time because of their presence near the Atlantic Ocean. The Portuguese government’s research and development wing provide all needed support for innovations and research across the country. If you are a researcher or involved in R&D, there is no place like Portugal.

For the golden visa, you must make over €350,000 in any research activity located in Portugal to be a part of it.

#5 Artistic & cultural activities

Are you fond of creativity? If yes, then Portugal lets you embrace its roman legacy with the touch of other cultures like Celtic, Lusitanian, Phoenician, Germanic, Visigoth, Viking, Sephardic Jewish, and Moorish. Thousand-year-old art and painting are kept in museums that narrate their glorious history.

Golden visa guidelines state that you have to make an investment of above €250,000 in artistic production or any cultural revival activity.

#6 Investment in SMEs

According to the golden visa program, you can acquire or back any small and medium size company, though the investment should be more significant than €500,000. SMEs are holding up a significant proportion in Portugal’s companies. It is a win-win situation for both investors as well as SMEs.

#7 Residential real estate property

After acquiring residential real estate property, you can also become liable for a golden visa. To buy a residential property in a highly dense and particular interior area, you have to invest €500,000.

However, you can also buy residential real estate property with a lower budget at €350,000. However, this property must be a part of the rehabilitation project.

Also, if you buy the property in a low-populated area, then you can get a 20% discount on the maximum investment limit. This allows you to make investment of € 280,000 and receive Portugal golden visa with family.

#8 Commercial real estate property

The same rule applies to acquiring commercial real estate property as residential real estate. You can make property investments as low as €500,000 in the interior area and €350,000 in the low-density area.

Conclusion 

The golden visa program is undoubtedly a golden opportunity for investors planning to expand their businesses. Apart from permanent residency, the Portuguese regime also ensures the security of investors and their families. Top of this, capital investment under the Portuguese citizenship golden visa program opens the door to the entire Europe. So, you must consider Portugal and have it on the list while investing your money abroad. However, looking to the popularity of the program and recent statement made by president of Portugal, Golden visa may not remain open for long time.

Possible green card in 100 years
September 27, 2022
September 27, 2022

For Indian Students Going to USA in 2022 – Possible Green Card Wait Time is 100 Years!!!

Author By Ajmera Law Group Categories EB-5 US Investor Visa, Green Card, US Immigration attorney, US Immigration Lawyer

Are you a student going to USA in 2022 for study with the hope of eventually obtaining a green card? Congratulations on getting admitted to a US university!! But the bad news is you may have to wait for 100 years to get a green card if you plan to settle down in USA after your studies. Read our blog to know more.

Thousands of students start their academic and professional journey in USA and wait in line for a number of years for their green card. Indian citizens living in USA for more than 10 years have not yet received their green card due to the limited employment-based quota. If you are going to USA in 2022, you may have to wait for almost 100 years to obtain a Green Card. Based on our communication with our associate US immigration lawyer, we would like to explain why this is happening.

October 2022 Visa Bulletin

The Dates of Filing Chart from the October 2022 Visa Bulletin show that EB2 India will retrogress well over 2 years to May 1, 2012. This means Indian citizens with advanced degrees, sponsored by their employers and living in USA for more than 10 years, are still in line for receiving their green cards.

The unfortunate part is people sponsored for EB2 India green cards in 2022 will have to wait for 100 years to obtain their green card! This means all EB2 Indian professionals may not even be alive when they get a green card. They will have to keep extending their H1-B visas every 3 years until they retire or until the government refuses to renew the visa. After which they will have to return to India.

One may question why this has come to pass. The main reason behind this situation is the outdated immigration laws. The number of employment-based green cards available to professionals with advanced degrees is only 28.6% of the 140,000. Additionally, the country limits EB2 green cards for people born in the country to only 7% of the total. As a result, the number of Indian professionals with advance-degrees who are obtaining green cards has drastically reduced.

Furthermore, not all countries have limits on EB1, EB2 and EB3 green cards. Thus, unused green cards are offered to some Indians waiting in line for years. 

Current situation of EB2 India

Currently, 140,000 people are waiting for their green cards, and 80% of them are Indian citizens. Considering the fact that US employers are dependent upon highly-educated Indians, one wonders why a quota of EB2 India immigrants is limited to 7% of the total number of immigrants?

Except immigrants from India and China, no other nationalities are waiting in queue to obtain a green card. It seems like citizens of India and China are being penalised due to the county of their birth.

Additionally, immigrant families are facing another hurdle. Children born abroad, after turning 21, are not allowed in USA. They are not even permitted to stay in line as dependents for a green card. Many such children become undocumented and are forced to go back to their home country after turning 21.

Is there a solution?

As discussed above, it can clearly be seen that US immigration laws are antiquated and require reform. If reforms don’t come soon, highly educated Indians will get demotivated about going to USA. Sensing the need of the hour, Senator Rand Paul, an American physician and politician serving as junior U.S. senator, has introduced the Backlog Elimination, Legal Immigration, and Employment Visa Enhancement (BELIEVE) Act.

This Act aims to end the limits placed on green cards for employment-based immigrants. It also proposes to increase the number of green cards for EB2 immigrants from 140,000 to 270,000. Additionally, entire families – spouses and minor children – will be included in the quota.

It doesn’t end here. The BELIEVE Act will eliminate the EB2 and EB3 India green card waiting times. The Act creates a levelled playing field for employment-based immigrants who must play by the rules and help the county by boosting the US economy.

To summarise, many highly educated Indian citizens waiting for green cards in USA may finally see a ray of hope in form of the BELIEVE Act. Get in touch with US immigration lawyer to stay updated.

Mistakes to Avoid While Applying for Business Immigration to Canada
September 19, 2022
September 19, 2022

6 Mistakes to Avoid While Applying for Business Immigration to Canada

Author By Ajmera Law Group Categories Canada, Canada Business Immigration

Are you planning to start your immigration process to Canada? Then this blog is for you.

A large number of Indian citizens are looking for permanent residence and eventually citizenship of Canada as living there entails many benefits. The first and foremost benefit is greater employment opportunities.

Canada also offers a high quality of life and free universal healthcare to its residents. This is what attracts immigrants to Canada from all over the world. Additionally, the country has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. It is country with one of the most abundant natural resources and natural scenery.

For its economic growth, the Canadian government is actively looking to attract foreign workers as well as investors.

Canada is the first country in the world to introduce a business immigration program and has always remained at the forefront in attracting entrepreneurs, investors and new talent globally. The country and its provinces offer many different investment programs through which one can obtain permanent residency. Whatever program one chooses, one is obliged to go through the necessary immigration process. So, let’s start with the mistakes one must avoid before and during the application process.

1. Business exploratory trip:

Before applying for residency of Canada under any business immigration program, it is advisable to undertake a business exploratory trip to explore the business opportunities. To visit Canada, obtaining a visitor visa becomes necessary. Before submitting a visitor visa application of Canada, it is important to ensure that all details in the application are consistent with all your facts and documents. Incorrect or inconsistent information in the visitor visa application can create problems for future business immigration application.

2. Language test:

Applying for a Canada business immigration visa or start-up visa requires a minimum score of 5 bands in IELTS. It is important to have this minimum score before applying for any business immigration program of Canada. Adverts that proclaim that they can help you obtain residency of Canada with an IELTS score of less than 5 bands are misleading and nothing more than a scam to entice vulnerable customers.

3. Related business:

Ensure that the business you plan to start (if it is a new business) or buy (if it is an existing business) in Canada is related to the business you are already operating and managing in your home country. We meet many clients who are in the real estate development business in India but wish to open a retail business in Canada. This can cause many difficulties in obtaining approval from Canadian government authorities.

4. Investment amount:

The basic investment requirement for Canada under many of its business immigration programs is between CD$ 100,000 to CD$ 200,000. However, most Indian business persons presume that just by investing this requisite amount they can obtain permanent residence of Canada. This is not true. This investment amount is just one of the many requirements. In addition to the investment, the business activity you wish to pursue in Canada must meet the Canadian government’s guidelines.

5. Investing in a business owned by family or friends:

There is a large Indian community in Canada and many Indian business persons feel comfortable in making an investment in their relatives’ or friends’ businesses. They feel this will ensure the safety and security of their investment. As such there is no bar to such an investment. However, our experience shows that such applications (where investment is in a relative’s/friend’s business) are scrutinized very closely because the government wants to ensure that the investment made is a real and not just a ploy to obtain immigration of Canada.

6. Not looking for proper guidance:

Many businesspersons prefer to complete the immigration application process themselves. But looking at the complexity of the process, it is recommended that applicants consult a qualified and experienced immigration lawyer for guidance. The paperwork involved is so complex and plentiful that only with the help of an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer can success be ensured.

Conclusion

Canada has been voted one of the best countries to live in year after year. If you wish to immigrate to Canada under one of its business immigration programs, it is advisable that you avoid the mistakes mentioned above. It is strongly recommended that you consult a qualified lawyer specializing in Canadian immigration to ease the process. Our law firm can help you every step of the way to ensure success.

• Citizenship of Grenada by Investment
August 24, 2022
August 24, 2022

How Can You Get the Coveted Citizenship of Grenada by Investment & E2 Business Visa of USA?

Author By Ajmera Law Group Categories Grenada, Investor Visa, USA

Grenada, also known as the Island of Spice, is a true Caribbean paradise. The island country is quite famous for the calming vibes it offers. What if you come to know that it can be your second home?

It is possible to get the coveted passport of Grenada. The government of Grenada offers a fantastic opportunity to those interested in getting settled in Grenada. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the process of how to get citizenship by investment in Grenada. So, let’s get started!

Grenada citizenship by investment requirement

If you choose the path to citizenship by investment, you don’t have to be in the country, take any kind of exams or know the language to apply for citizenship. The Grenada citizenship by investment program is a government initiative designed to attract foreign investors and their families to the country. The program offers two investment options:

  1. The applicant has to invest a minimum of $220,000 in government-approved real estate projects in the country. Additional costs like due diligence, submission, and processing fee are the ones the applicant must bear. The locking period for the property purchased is five years after which it can be sold by the applicant.
  2. The applicant must make a non-refundable contribution of $150,000 to the National Transformation Fund (NTF). The investment depends upon a confluence of factors like the number of dependents on the applicant and the dependents’ age. Additional costs like due diligence, filing fee, and review fee are the ones the applicant must bear.

Who is eligible for the program?

To be eligible, you must be a foreign national having attained an age of 18 years, and you must invest as mentioned above. You must also have a clean criminal record and be able to provide proof of your net worth to show that you have the financial resources to support yourself and your family.

If you meet all the requirements, then you’re in luck! The process of applying for citizenship is relatively straightforward, and acquiring Grenada citizenship for Indian is easy. The processing time is approximately six months. It might be a little more than that.

Benefits of Grenada citizenship

Well, for starters, you will have access to all the benefits of being a Grenadian citizen. The finest one is that you become eligible to apply for an E2 visa (issued for up to five years) in the United States of America. That means the investor and his family have the right to do work or business or study there. Your Grenadian passport can even get you a B1/B2 visa for up to 10 years.

You can travel visa-free to over 146 countries, including the UK and the Schengen area. Even China allows citizens of Grenada to stay up to 30 days per year without a visa.

Another huge perk is that any kind of capital gains, wealth and inheritance, and revenue earned outside Grenada by you is not taxable. And you will be able to pass on your citizenship to your children and grandchildren.

Conclusion

The citizenship of Grenada offers a relaxed lifestyle and financial freedom, which can be a boon to investors having funds, to enjoy a better life and their hard-earned money.

Investing in EB-5
July 25, 2022
July 25, 2022

Investing in EB-5 as Equity, Debt, Fund or Mutual Fund – Which is the Best Option?

Author By Prashant Ajmera Categories EB-5 US Investor Visa, Investor Visa, Regional Centers, Residency & Citizenship by Investment, Second Passport, US Immigration attorney, US Immigration Lawyer, US start up visa program

Understanding Investing in EB-5  and different financial structures?

The pathway to USA Green Card by investment, also popularly known as the EB-5 investment visa program, is considered the easiest and safest way to obtain a Green Card. The law behind the EB-5 investor program is very simple but the creative financial structures set up by investors and related professionals make investing in EB-5 look like a very complex process.

The simple EB-5 law

  1. An EB-5 investor may make an investment of US$ 800,000 in a new commercial enterprise / new business which will create 10 new jobs provided the business is located in a rural area or high unemployment area or the project is an infrastructure project. In all other cases, the investment amount shall be US$ 1,050,000.
  2. The investment should be a business risk.
  3. The investment amount should come from a legitimate source, including earned money or a loan, or a gift.

This simple EB-5 regulation has been converted into complex financial structures, making the investment process seem very complicated for investors.

Here are the direct and indirect EB-5 investment scenarios:

Direct Investment

An investor can start on his own or partner with someone in the USA for a new business located anywhere in the USA, make an investment of US$ 1,050,000 and create 10 jobs. The investor will then qualify for a visa under the EB5 program. If this business is located in a rural area or high unemployment area, the investment amount will be US$ 800,000.

Investors who are capable of operating and managing a business may opt for this type of direct investment.

Indirect investment

In this case, several geographical areas in the USA may be combined and approval from USCIS is obtained to declare the area as a Regional Centre.

It is under this type of indirect investment, various financial structures are offered to investors for making an investment.

Here are some simple examples:

EB-5 Equity investments

A developer in the USA approaches USCIS to receive permission to declare a certain geographical area of the USA as a regional center. The developer then starts his project in this area and uses the EB-5 program to raise funds. The project will also be financed by a bank loan and the developer’s equity in the regional center as well.

In this type of project, the developer invites investors to make an investment as equity or as preferred equity partners.

Very few developers in the USA use this model. In such cases, there is one project and one developer.

EB-5 Debt model 

A company raising funds for a business or project in the USA may approach USCIS to receive permission to declare a certain geographical area of the USA as a regional center.

Once the area is declared a regional center, the company may approach developers or businesses to set up a project there.

Rather than making a direct investment in the project company, in this case, a second company is created in which EB-5 investors make an investment as equity partners. This company then gives a loan to the project company to carry forward the project. Hence this is known as the Debt model.

This is the most popular model for EB-5 investment.

It is interesting to note that US companies assisting to raise funds for US developers or businesses also undertake marketing for EB-5 projects outside of the USA to attract EB-5 investors.

In this case, too there is one project and one developer but there is also an intermediary company, such as a fundraising company and/or EB-5 marketing company.

EB-5 Fund / Mutual Fund model

A company raising funds for a business or project in the USA may approach USCIS to receive permission to declare a certain geographical area of the USA as a regional center or the company may rent a regional center from another company who has already received approval from USCIS for a regional center.

Once the area is declared a regional center, the company may approach several developers or businesses to set up a project there.

The EB-5 fund may be created for just one project or business or several projects or businesses in a regional center.

Using EB-5 funds for several projects reduces the risk by diversifying the portfolio as in the case of regular mutual funds in financial markets.

This model is used by very few companies in the USA.

To protect EB-5 investors, the US government has introduced the new EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act. Thanks to this new regulation, we may see a major shift in the EB-5 marketplace. Many companies marketing EB-5 projects or raising funds or renting regional centers may face financial viability issues due to a long list of compliance requirements.

Depending on your personal aptitude, investors may decide to invest in EB-5 to receive a USA green card.

Legal disclaimer:

This blog is written in a very simplified manner for the purpose of making investors understand the various models related to EB-5 investment. Investors are advised to consult a qualified US immigration lawyer before making any decision regarding an EB-5 investment.

For Indian investors – Investing in an EB-5 visa from India is a legal matter and as per Indian law, only Indian lawyers having expertise in the EB-5 program must be consulted. 

Citizenship of Malta by Investment
July 22, 2022
July 22, 2022

Malta offers the Direct Citizenship by Investment

Author By Ajmera Law Group Categories Malta Citizenship by Investment

Is the European Union your dream destination to live? Malta citizenship by investment is the perfect program for you.

When the European Union started attracting investors, many countries did not require residency before achieving citizenship. Investors just needed to invest and stay for a certain period as specified by the program of the country. What an astounding opportunity to get citizenship in an EU country!

However, the EU governments suspected that investors are not even staying in the country as per minimum requirements and the program is taken for granted. Hence, they stopped many countries from granting citizenship to investors directly. Now, first they need to get residency by investment. After the completion of residency visa, they can apply for citizenship.

If you are still looking out for ways to enter the EU without residency requirement, Malta is the answer. Malta is one of the few countries left from the EU that offers citizenship by investment program. You can reach out to us for further guidance and grab the opportunity.

Let’s look at the benefits you get along with citizenship of Malta by investment.

Visa-Free Travel

With a Malta investor visa on your passport, you can travel to not only the countries of the EU but also 140 other countries including the USA, Canada, Middle East, Asia, Africa, and many countries of South America without a visa. Additionally, you get the various European Union benefits along with citizenship of Malta.

Quality Life

Malta is a heavenly country which is a preferred tourist place for Europeans. Living in Malta, you can also enjoy various scenic holiday destinations the country has to offer. Additionally, you will also get public services like massive infrastructure, and secure banking. You and your family can leverage property rights and freedom of speech, as Maltese citizens. Thus, you get a quality life living in Malta.

Study & Work in EU Countries

You and your family get all rights just as other Maltese citizens. Your children can study in public schools and universities. You and your spouse can have massive opportunities to work in one of the rapidly-growing economies after achieving citizenship. Basically, you can live, study, and work freely.

Maltese Healthcare System

The country’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world. Their health insurance covers prescriptions, pregnancy, childbirth, hospitalizations, and specialist’s treatments.

In a nutshell, Malta citizenship by investment program is a tremendous opportunity for non-EU investors. You can enjoy the immense benefits that come with the citizenship of Malta.

ALG News & Updates
July 15, 2022
July 15, 2022

July 2022 updates from Ajmera Law Group

Author By Prashant Ajmera Categories ALG News and Updates, Dubai Golden Visa, EB-5 US Investor Visa, Europe
  1. The USA Green Card – EB-5 visa program’s new compliance requirements – https://ajmeralaw.com/country/usa-eb-5-investor-program/

 

  1. Four types of USA business visas. Comparison between – EB-5 | L1 A & B | E2 | EB1C – https://ajmeralaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/USA-Business-Visa-comparison-min.pdf

 

  1. Ajmera Law Group is pleased to add three more countries to its portfolio for Residency and Citizenship by Investment.

 

 

 

 

  1. Portugal Golden Visa – With an investment of only Euro 280,000 in a hotel and very attractive terms and conditions – https://ajmeralaw.com/country/portugal-citizenship-by-investment/

 

  1. Launch of our new website with AI based chat bot – https://ajmeralaw.com

 

  1. No need to go to the UAE or contact an agent or law firm in UAE. Now register your company and move your business to UAE from India itself. ALG is now the authorized law firm of a UAE Free Trade Zone. You can contact us to register your company and complete all formalities without leaving India – https://ajmeralaw.com/country/uae-citizenship-by-investment/

 

Please contact us for additional information regarding any of the above services offered by our law firm.

 

 

Team Ajmera Law Group

EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act
June 21, 2022
June 21, 2022

Old and New EB-5 Reforms and Integrity Act – Salient Differences

Author By Ajmera Law Group Categories Business Visa, EB-5 US Investor Visa, US Immigration attorney, US Immigration Lawyer

The EB-5 visa category is an easy and straight forward option to obtain a Green Card through investment in the United States. The program is designed for foreign nationals who desire to immigrate to the US and start a business or invest in an existing business that contributes to the US economy.

On 15th March, 2022, the US government launched the new EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act 2022.

As a one of the leading Immigration lawyer in India, we have highlighted some of the important new provisions in this new Act.

Reasons for updating the existing Act:

  1.  Preventing frauds
  2. Promoting and reforming foreign capital investment
  3. Creating jobs in American Communities

The Act lists new compliance requirements that have to be adhered to by the following entities:

  1. Regional centers
  2. New commercial enterprises
  3. Job creation entities
  4. Direct and third-party promoters
  5. Migration agents
  6. Companies and professionals involved with regional centers

Salient differences between the old and new Act and regulations:

Job creation

Earlier, each investor had to create 10 jobs irrespective of whether they were direct or indirect jobs. As per the new Act, each investor has to create at least 10 jobs of which 90% can be indirect jobs. If the construction work lasts for less than 2 years, only 75% of the jobs are accepted as indirect.

Regional Centre (RC) approval

As per the old Act, RC approval by the state government was mandatory but not by USCIS. However, the new Act stipulates that RCs will now require mandatory approval by the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). As an associate of US Immigration attorney in India, our law firm can assist in obtaining RC approval for our clients.

EB-5 business plan

In the old Act, it was left up to the discretion of regional centers whether they wanted to get approval of their business plan before filing an EB-5 petition. Now, investors can file for EB-5 petition only after receiving approval of their RC’s business plan. As an associate of US Immigration lawyer in India, our law firm can assist in obtaining business plan approval for our clients.

Failure to comply with the Act and regulations

Earlier, USCIS could not take any action in case any RC failed to comply with the Act and its regulations. Now, USCIS can suspend or terminate the RC in case of non-compliance.

Investment

Investors had to invest US$ 500,000 and $1,000,000 under the old Act that was effective before 15th March, 2022. Now, investors must invest US$ 800,000 and $1,050,000 to file an EB-5 petition.

 

Additionally, the US Government has come up with some new regulations in the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act 2022. They are as listed below:

RC record keeping and audit

USCIS shall conduct an audit of the RC every five years. Hence, RCs have to maintain records for five years.

RC’s annual statement

All regional centers have to maintain and share the annual statement with the investors. If they do not follow the requirement, USCIS can demand a minimum penalty of 10% of the total amount invested.

Annual fees by RCs

If the number of investors is less than 20, RCs have to pay annual fees of US$ 10,000 to the USCIS. If the number of investors is more than 20, RCs must pay annual fees of US$ 20,000.

Petition fees by RCs

RCs must contribute US$ 1,000 per petition to create funds so that they can recover the costs of adjudication and naturalization.

Administration of investment amount by investors

The US government has added a specific provision for an escrow account. The RC must have a 3rd party fund administrator, such as a USA licensed lawyer, CPA or broker/dealer to administer the EB-5 investors’ funds.

Marketing and Migration agents:

All marketing and migration agents appointed by the RC must be registered with the USCIS.

Conclusion:

To stop frequent frauds and create jobs for American communities the US Government launched the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act 2022 with more stringent and well-defined regulations. For more information, please contact our law firm.

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