For many families, securing a world-class education is a top priority, and few institutions are more closely associated with academic excellence than the Ivy League universities in the United States. These prestigious schools are renowned for their reputation, extensive networks, and unparalleled resources. However, gaining admission is no small feat, and for international families, securing legal residence in the US is the crucial first step in the process of obtaining admission. Investment-based visas, such as the E-2 and EB-5, provide a pathway to living in the U.S., offering families a solution to pursue these Ivy League aspirations.
Ivy League Schools
The Ivy League consists of eight elite private universities in the U.S., each renowned for its academic excellence, rich history, and highly selective admissions process. According to Times Higher Education, these schools are Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University, and Yale University.
These institutions consistently rank among the top universities globally due to their rigorous academic programs, distinguished faculty, and exclusive admissions standards. Their vast alumni networks, which include leaders across business, politics, academia, and the arts, offer invaluable career opportunities for students and graduates.
In addition to academic prestige, the Ivy League has deep-rooted traditions, including a rich athletic history. The term “Ivy League” was coined in 1937 by a sportswriter referring to a football game between Columbia University and the University of Pennsylvania, referencing their ivy-covered campuses. With significant financial endowments, these universities offer world-class resources and facilities, enhancing the student experience. Globally recognized, they open doors worldwide for graduates, with many alumni contributing generously to maintain their excellence.
E-2 vs EB-5 Visas
Aside from the admission hurdles, attending these universities can present a challenge for international families regarding visa requirements. The E-2 and EB-5 visas have become popular pathways to U.S. residency, but they differ significantly in their requirements and benefits for both applicant and their families. Here’s a comparison from US Immigration Advisor:
E-2 Visa
Type: Nonimmigrant visa, does not lead directly to a green card. Applicants must show intent to leave the U.S. after visa expiration.
Investment Requirement: No fixed minimum, but the investment must be substantial based on the business type.
Filing Process: Petitions can be filed at U.S. embassies or consulates in the investor’s country of birth, citizenship, or residence. Applicants already in the U.S. can apply for a status change.
Nationality: Applicants must be from a country with a qualifying treaty with the U.S. Nationals of non-treaty countries may qualify if married to a treaty country citizen.
Business Condition: The business must not be marginal and should generate enough income to support the investor.
Processing Time: Approximately four months.
Work Authorization: Investors can only work for the E-2 business. Spouses can work freely without needing an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
Taxation: Can avoid worldwide income taxation by limiting time in the U.S.
Ownership Requirement: The investor must own at least 50% of the business.
EB-5 Visa
Type: Immigrant visa, leading to permanent residency or popularly known as green card.
Investment Requirement: Minimum investment of $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or $1,050,000 in other areas.
Filing Process: Petitions are filed with USCIS before applying for a visa or adjusting status if already in the U.S.
Nationality: No nationality restrictions.
Job Creation: Must create 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers to obtain permanent residency.
Processing Time: Lengthy, multi-step process involving initial petition, status adjustment or visa processing, and conditional green card approval.
Work Authorization: Investors can work for any employer.
Taxation: Subject to U.S. taxation on worldwide income.
Residency Obligation: Must maintain ties to the U.S. and avoid spending more than six months abroad to retain residency status.
Common features of both
Business Risk: Both visas involve the risk of losing status if the business fails.
Legal Funds: Both require proof that investment funds come from legal sources such as employment, property sales, gifts, or loans.
Family Benefits: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can accompany the investor to the U.S. Spouses can work, and children can attend school.
What it means for your children
The benefits for children of investors, as it relates to their educational opportunities, differ depending on the visa type:
For EB-5 investors, the advantages are considerable. Their children can enrol in U.S. public schools from kindergarten through high school at no additional cost. These children are classified as U.S. residents, giving them a significant advantage in the college admissions process compared to international students, as they are not bound by the quotas many colleges place on international applicants. Green Card holders also benefit from in-state tuition rates, reducing education expenses, and they are eligible for scholarships and financial aid reserved for U.S. citizens and residents. Unlike students on other visas, Green Card holders can work without restrictions, pursue internships, and do not need to worry about visa renewals during their studies.
For E-2 visa holders, obtaining a visa for children is straightforward, provided the child is under 21 at the time of application and proof of parentage is submitted, typically through a birth certificate. As E-2 dependents, children can remain in the U.S. and attend school until they turn 21. However, there are limitations. Once they reach 21, they “age out” of dependent status and must explore other visa options to stay in the U.S. Moreover, E-2 dependent children are not allowed to work during their stay.
Both visa types offer distinct advantages depending on your family’s goals and resources. If your goal is long-term U.S. residency and you can meet the financial criteria, the EB-5 visa is likely the best option, especially with its work flexibility. However, if you prefer flexibility and are a national of a treaty country, the E-2 visa offers an affordable way to live and work in the U.S. while providing your children access to world-class education.
Your investment for their future
Investing in an E-2 or EB-5 visa is about more than financial gain—it’s about securing your family’s future in one of the world’s most dynamic countries. With access to Ivy League institutions and their influential networks, your children will be well-positioned for global success.
Take the first step towards your American Dream and invest in a future that opens doors to top-tier education and beyond. Reach out to our Citizenship Invest experts today to help you navigate this complex and ever-evolving landscape.
