My name is Lorrie Rojas. I’m originally from Cebu City, Philippines. After moving to the U.S. in 2015 to pursue a master’s program, I fell in love with the freedom and opportunities here.
I chose to make the United States my permanent home through the EB-5 investment program.
Let me share my immigration journey—and best practices for EB-5 investors—with you.
Why I Decided to Pursue a U.S. Green Card Through the EB-5 Program
Starting the EB-5 Process: Finding an Immigration Attorney
Finding the Right EB-5 Project Developer
Working with the EB5AN Team
Best Practices for EB-5 Investors
Why I Decided to Pursue a U.S. Green Card Through the EB-5 Program
Initially, the U.S. intrigued me with its vibrant culture, delicious food, and the unparalleled freedom it offers. The lifestyle here is exactly what I dreamed of, and it didn’t take long for me to realize I wanted to stay. My journey began on an F-1 visa as a student, but as my studies came to an end, I decided to stay in the U.S. for good.
I considered various visa options, including the H-1B, but I found this work visa too restrictive. The EB-5 visa, on the other hand, stood out for its flexibility and clear path to permanent residency. This was exactly what I needed – a way to stay in the U.S. and continue enjoying the life I had grown to love.
Getting a Green Card through the EB-5 program allows you to live and work permanently anywhere in the United States as a permanent resident. These were exactly the immigration benefits I wanted, without the restrictions imposed by many other temporary, non-immigrant visas.
Starting the EB-5 Process: Finding an Immigration Attorney
The process started with finding the right EB-5 immigration attorney. I did a thorough online search and interviewed several attorneys from both large and small firms.
My choice was Anahita George for her incredible level of responsiveness and professionalism. She was available around the clock, even on nights and weekends, which made communication very easy. Thanks to her diligence, my I-526 application was approved without any delays from USCIS. This brought me closer to my American dream.
Finding the Right EB-5 Project Developer
The next crucial step was selecting the right EB-5 project to invest in.
The project’s developer’s track record was my top priority. After evaluating various options, I decided to invest in EB5AN’s Hyatt Fort Lauderdale project developed by the Kolter Group. Kolter’s flawless track record over 25 years and their ability to navigate through the challenges posed by COVID-19 reassured me of my investment’s safety.
Despite the economic downturn caused by the pandemic, the hotel project I invested in stayed afloat financially. This proves Kolter’s financial strength and strategic planning.
My investment decision took a lot of research. I compared several projects, noting that some developers promised quicker repayment but lacked the experience and reliability I valued.
Considering the economic impact of COVID-19, I’m convinced I made the right decision. Other hotel projects failed during the pandemic, but mine stood strong financially because I had chosen the right developer.
Visiting the project site was an important part of my research. Accompanied by Mike Schoenfeld, a managing partner of EB5AN, I toured the site and had all my questions answered. Seeing the project firsthand made me more confident that I would both qualify for a Green Card and get a return on my invested funds.
Working with the EB5AN Team
One of the most critical decisions I faced was choosing a regional center to work with. After evaluating several options, I decided to go with the EB5AN team.
The team at EB5AN was outstanding. Their transparency and responsiveness made the investment process much easier than it would have been otherwise. They provided me with quarterly financial reports, which was reassuring.
Also, they were always there to answer the many questions I had, making my experience as smooth as possible.
Best Practices for EB-5 Investors
Reflecting on my EB-5 investment journey, which has spanned several years, I can honestly say that I’m very happy with my decision. The most daunting tasks were selecting a project and choosing a lawyer. Fortunately, both of the choices I made turned out to be the right ones. The process with USCIS went smoothly, without any requests for evidence (RFEs).
For others from the Philippines or any other country considering an EB-5 investment, my journey offers a blueprint for success without encountering significant issues. The project I invested in was successful, it created jobs, my money was safe, and my I-526 application was approved promptly.
My advice to prospective EB-5 investors is to be proactive and thorough in your research. If possible, visit the project you are considering investing in. This can give you a tangible sense of the investment and its potential.
Read articles and educate yourself about the EB-5 program, especially about the rules that are in effect today, as they have undergone changes.
Understanding whether an urban or rural project better suits your circumstances is vital. Additionally, if you’re already in the U.S., explore the possibility of obtaining a work and travel permit through your investment. The landscape of EB-5 investments has evolved, and staying informed will help you make the best decisions for your situation.
For anyone considering working with Anahita George or the EB5AN team, I’m open to sharing more about my experience. I’m available through email (rojaslorrie@gmail.com) to prospective investors.
It’s rewarding to see others achieve their American dream, like I have, through a successful EB-5 investment.
