Staff: What are some reforms you would like to see in the
EB-5 program?
Staff: Talking about moving forward, what do you see as the
future of EB-5?
Rosenfeld: First, I think it is only fair to acknowledge the
important changes that USCIS has made to enhance the predictability and integrity of the EB-5 program. In particular, I
think the issuance in May 2013 of the EB-5 policy guidelines was
a significant turning point. This is a thoughtful document that
protects the integrity of the EB-5 program in a manner that is
realistic about business practices and investment risks. It will also
help ensure that petitions are adjudicated in a consistent manner.
Adjudication delays continue to have an adverse impact. To
its credit, the agency has repeatedly acknowledged that these
delays are a serious problem and that one of its top priorities
is to substantially reduce the current adjudication timeframes.
My understanding is that there are currently 80 professionals
assigned to the EB-5 headquarters unit. That is a significant
commitment of resources to administering the program and
evidences a sincere desire to reduce the very problematic delays.
Rosenfeld: The key factor that will ensure the future growth
of the program is an increase in the visa numbers. An increase
will mitigate deba