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VFS Global’s Education, Trade & Migration (VFS ETM) has partnered with Rayad Group to provide immigration advisory services for Indian individuals and families in the United States. Amit Kumar Sharma, Head of North America & Caribbean at VFS Global, noted that the partnership is based on a shared focus on supporting clients through the immigration process. With more than four million people of Indian origin living in the U.S., the collaboration seeks to offer clear and current information on the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program.

Can you explain the recent partnership between VFS ETM and Rayad Group?

VFS ETM, a business unit of VFS Global, has partnered with Rayad Group to offer immigration advisory services across the United States. This collaboration enables U.S. residents to access a comprehensive range of immigration advisory services conveniently at VFS Global locations in five major cities: Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Washington D.C.

What is the main goal of this partnership?

The partnership aims to establish a Center of Excellence dedicated to delivering high-quality immigration advisory services. This center will leverage the latest advancements in Generative AI technology combined with top legal expertise to help individuals navigate complex migration processes and stay compliant with evolving immigration regulations.

How will this partnership benefit U.S. residents?

U.S. residents will gain access to a network of experienced immigration, tax, and legal professionals who provide tailored solutions addressing a wide range of immigration needs. This is especially important as global immigration frameworks become more intricate and regulatory compliance standards increase.

What specific services does VFS ETM provide in the migration space?

VFS ETM offers a comprehensive suite of migration services including skill assessments, dynamic digital verification (DDV), and streamlined pathways for employment and investment-led migration. These services are designed to uphold national standards while significantly optimizing administrative processes for public institutions.

Could you tell us more about Rayad Group’s expertise and background?

Rayad Group is a global leader in immigration and legal consulting with an extensive network of associate attorneys in the U.S. and 45 countries worldwide. The group is affiliated with 25 Citizenship by Investment programs and provides pathways to permanent residency and Golden Visas. Rayad Group also has a strong track record in U.S. EB-5 visa programs and Green Card compliance, making it a trusted guide through immigration complexities.

How does VFS Global’s global presence support this partnership?

VFS Global is a global leader in trusted technology services, empowering secure mobility for governments and citizens. It partners with 69 client governments and operates over 3,800 Application Centres in 158 countries, having processed more than 461 million applications since 2001. This extensive network and expertise enhance the partnership’s ability to deliver efficient and reliable immigration services.

The EB-5 visa program is popular among Indian investors seeking U.S. residency. How does the partnership between VFS ETM and Rayad Group assist Indian nationals interested in the EB-5 visa, and what are the key considerations they should be aware of?

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers Indian nationals a pathway to U.S. permanent residency by investing in a new commercial enterprise that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. 

The minimum investment is $800,000 for projects in targeted employment areas and $1,050,000 elsewhere. Given the program’s intricacies—including filing the I-526 petition, maintaining the investment for at least two years, and meeting job creation requirements—guidance from experienced immigration and legal experts is crucial. 

Through this partnership, Indian investors can access comprehensive advisory services that combine Rayad Group’s deep expertise in U.S. immigration law with VFS ETM’s global operational capabilities. This ensures applicants receive up-to-date, tailored support throughout the EB-5 process, including compliance with regulatory changes and documentation requirements, helping them navigate the path to obtaining a conditional Green Card and eventually permanent residency.